Indeed, the federal platform included a hodge-podge of prokises, some of them quite progressive. However, apart from C-51 and child care, the rest of the policies (i.e. pharmacare) only got the spotlight after the party was already in trouble.
Speaking of childcare, given that Quebec was the party's strength, and given that they already have a childcare plan, why was that particular platform item given so much airtime? Essentially, we were saying, "Vote for us and we'll give you what you already have".
I also agree that Mulcair was right to take a stand on the niqab. However, Trudeau did, too, so how were we out-smarted on that issue?
I'm not exprecting a party revolt in April for the very reasons listed in Stockholm's post. However, what I hope to see is a clear message from the delegates that the NDP requires a major overhaul, not just a tweak, here and there. In fact, I'd go as far as to say the name NDP has become more of an anchor around our necks than an asset. Too many losses and not enough wins.
I know changing the name will not, by itself, solve our problems. We need to think about what a democratic socialist party should stand for in the present circumstances and choose a new name that reflects our principles. The CCF knew when the game was up; the NDP needs to show the same courage.