LEE-DERSHIP HOPEFUL
New entrant in Liberal race
“My name is Michael Lee and I want to change the future of British Columbia by seeking the leadership of the B.C. Liberal party.”
And with that declaration to a loud and cheering crowd of some 200 at the Bill Reid Gallery in downtown Vancouver on Tuesday, Lee’s public campaign began.
But who is Michael Lee, some may ask.
For that they may be forgiven, because Lee is a newcomer to political office, having won his first seat in the legislature in May. The question won’t bother the Vancouver-Langara MLA any — he’s well aware that he’s a fresh face.
For Lee, newness may just give him the edge over a long slate of high-profile, experienced leadership hopefuls in the race to replace Christy Clark.
“Our party needs change,” he told supporters after setting out several of his priorities.
Last election, voters saw the Liberals as the party that was strong on jobs, the economy and balanced budgets, Lee said. “And they saw the other parties as those that care. I think that’s wrong. B.C. Liberals care.”
Social programs, health care and the environment featured high in Lee’s speech. So too did infrastructure and the economy.
“We need them all. We can’t always have this situation where we’re having to pick and choose … They’re all interconnected.”
Lee spoke of the importance of strong relationships with First Nations, a forward-looking education system and increased child care options. He also lingered on the importance of ensuring younger generations can afford to live and build futures in B.C.
Lee doesn’t support taxpayer subsidies for political parties, and said he wanted to cut taxes for workers and businesses. He sees a strong mining future for B.C., more affordable housing through added supply and more culturally appropriate care for seniors.
Among those backing Lee is former Vancouver-Fraserview MLA Suzanne Anton, the former justice minister and attorney general. And on his team is Mark Marissen, a former strategist for the Liberal Party of Canada and the ex-husband of Clark.
“I think I’ve demonstrated to other competitors in this race what I have and if people wonder about that, they should just see what I’m doing. I’m just getting started,” Lee said, adding that he was on his way to Terrace later that day to announce his candidacy to northern residents as well.
Lee walked up to the podium with Justin Timberlake’s Can’t Stop the Feeling blasting through speakers. He worked the crowd at every step with hearty handshakes and wide grins.
“I got that sunshine in my pocket,” Timberlake crooned as Lee skipped up to the mike, waving with both arms to supporters and members of his family.
The fresh-faced newcomer seemed to have just that — a little sunshine about him. He may not have deep political experience, but you can’t discount the power of charisma.