Intelligence not only factor

Re: Wynn makes it hard to see her lose. Christie Blatchford, May 17

Christie Blatchford’s column raised my ire. May I point out to Ms. Blatchford that Machiavelli was undoubtedly intelligent as well.

What good is intelligence if it is used against the people of this province? If after 15 years of corruption and ineptitude, Kathleen Wynne is returned to office the only intelligence in question will be that of the Ontario voting public. Amelia Elstub, Oakville, Ont. There persists this curious notion among voters and journalists that “niceness” or an illusion of competence translates into responsible governing.

Who can forget the voluminous references to that “mean” Stephen Harper? I bet an afternoon in the pub would have been a lot more enjoyable with the late Jack Layton. Similarly, what rational person wouldn’t prefer to shoot the breeze about sports with Barack Obama versus Donald Trump? And yet, we’re reminded of the phrase, “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.”

Despite her seeming warmth and ability to master talking points, Kathleen Wynne should get no free passes; she and her predecessor have put this province on a path to fiscal ruin and their talk of “caring” for people is a joke. Just ask anyone struggling to pay hydro bills or to fuel their yearsold automobiles; the small businesses dealing with onslaught of bureaucracy; etc.

Thanks anyway, but I’ll take the brusque guy in the ill-fitting suit to lead the province. Jeff Barker, Mississauga, Ont. This un-christie-like piece was obviously written for an audience of one.

Playing to Ms. Wynne’s vanities doesn’t change the narrative. Kathleen Wynne’s legacy are the casualties that have been left behind. They include, among others, renters, parents, victims of auto accidents, consumers, and the sick.

Kathleen Wynne has shown herself to have the Midas touch in reverse. Maybe Ms. Blatchford’s followup columns will tell their stories. D. Robert Findlay, Hamilton, Ont.