The Reformers’ Referral: What’s Behind Preston Manning’s Virtual Forum

Preston Manning’s latest venture into Canadian politics is marked by a more measured approach. As co-chair of a virtual public forum addressing Western Canada’s grievances with Ottawa, he seeks to address what he sees as the erosion of provincial power.

Manning has a history of advocating for greater regional autonomy and has been involved in previous advisory panels. This time around, his strategy appears aimed at avoiding the partisan bickering that often accompanies such initiatives. According to Manning, the goal is to provide an educational platform where voters can engage with various perspectives on the issues.

The co-chairing of this forum by Manning and former B.C. premier Gordon Campbell raises questions about their motivations. While concerns about federal overreach extend beyond Alberta’s borders, it’s difficult not to see this effort as a pre-emptive strike in support of Danielle Smith’s referendum on provincial separation. Smith’s United Conservative Party has been courting the Reform Party faithful, and Manning’s involvement may be seen as a nod of approval.

Manning is framing this exercise as an educational initiative rather than a partisan one, which may be intended to distance himself from some of the more divisive elements of Smith’s agenda. However, it remains unclear whether Manning’s emphasis on non-partisanship will lead to genuine engagement with opposing views or if this will become another platform for ideologues to grandstand.

Manning’s hopes for a more inclusive and democratic process are somewhat at odds with Smith’s own agenda. While she claims her proposals will address some of Alberta’s grievances with Ottawa, they’re also being framed as a way to “push the envelope” on issues like immigration – a move that risks further polarizing an already contentious debate.

As we approach the referendum in less than two months, Manning’s forum is just one piece of a larger puzzle. The outcome remains uncertain, and it’s unclear whether this will provide a genuine opportunity for voters to engage with opposing views or if it will become another forum for the faithful to rally around.