Smackx writes ". Singh beats Trudeau when it comes to youth, style and charm.' All very nice, but shouldnt it be substance and policy positions that determine who is the best candidate? And Mr. Singh has apparently called for an end to the universality of the Old Age Pension system in Canada, arguing that the money could be better focused on those who need it. The NDP and most social democratic parties have traditionally argued for universal social programs. Can one imagine if Mr. Singh's logic were used for medicare? For other social programs? 

Mr. Singh owes us an explanation. I for one am extremely reluctant to vote for someone who doesnt seem to grasp one of the essential beliefs of the social democratic movement. 

But one thing for sure. The list  of candidates  is underwhelming.  A strident Nikki Ashton, Charlie Angus  and his inability to speak French. The only choice is Mr. Caron, which is a vote to maintain an NDP presence in Quebec.  Or how about that Mulcair guy?