Attacking attack ads

Re: “Tories take an early jab at new Liberal leader” (Gazette, April 16)

Justin Trudeau went shirtless at a fundraiser for medical research. Negative attack ads using that image drawn out of context aim to reduce his new leadership momentum. He should have creatively responded “I would take off my shirt to fight for Canadians, their health and rights.”

Whether Trudeau has more than curb appeal to lead a nation is a decision best reserved to just prior to an election, when one can better judge his platform and how his team has performed in opposition.

Until then, he can simply address the issues with good reasoning and constructive criticism. The public is watching and may turn against ads that take their ignorance for granted to discredit others. Michael Shafter

Montreal

In recent days, Prime Minister Stephen Harper and his party have launched attack ads on their opponents. These ads take situations, comments and images out of context to support the message their party wishes to convey.

How ironic, from the leader of this country who, only a few days ago stood at a podium and told the parents of a daughter that had committed suicide “let’s call bullying what it is ... criminal.”

The mudslinging ads presumably approved by Mr. Harper have just sent a clear message to those Canadian youths that see no issue in bullying others. “Why not?” I hear them say, “The prime minister does it.”

As the person holding the highest office in Canada, Mr. Harper should set a good example and practice what he dares to preach. John Prevost

Île-Bizard

What is the Conservative Party thinking in bringing out attack ads against newly elected Liberal leader Justin Trudeau on his first day? Plus, it’s almost cheap to talk about his youth and inexperience. It is, after all, Trudeau’s second term in Parliament.

Harper was 43 years “young” and in his first term when elected leader of his party.

To start a negative ad campaign two years before the next election is not only a waste of money but, in my view, will backfire on the Harper government. Negative advertising only works when based on perceived facts during election time. If Mr. Trudeau’s past performance in Parliament is any indication, then there’s plenty of time for him to embarrass himself in the months to come.

Moreover, given the current polls placing the NDP in third place, Tom Mulcair will waste no opportunity to shore up his place as the official opposition leader and “the government in waiting.” And with the NDP’s move to the right (centre), the Conservatives to the left (centre) and the Liberals (centre) sailing in what whatever wind direction is popular, I have to agree with Andrew Coyne that there’s barely any difference between the parties. Whatever happened to political integrity and principles? Ray Bartschat

Hudson

Re: “A new chapter for Justin rudeau” (Opinion, April 16) Perhaps Andrew Coyne does not remember as well as some of us do that when Justin’s father took on the Liberal leadership many Canadians called him nothing more than a wealthy playboy — and that the label peeled off.

Don Healy Melbourne, Que.