Some in the media have suggested that the entry of Martha Hall Findlay into the Liberal leadership race throws a wrench into Justin Trudeau's plans.
Given that the Liberals won't choose a party leader until April, we doubt that Trudeau is losing any sleep just yet. But the list of contenders continues to grow. There won't be any cakewalk here.
Hall Findlay's candidacy may not be a popular one among the rank and file of British Columbia, given her support of pipeline infrastructure to get Canadian resources to foreign markets. Perhaps her insistence on more environmental regulation, not less, and meaningful consultation with First Nations may help.
Meanwhile, Vancouver MP Joyce Murray, a former B.C. cabinet minister, adds a Western interest to the leadership race. Those that see a Liberal return to power through Green party and/or NDP alliances will support her.
In terms of public profile, it's likely Marc Garneau provides the biggest current challenge to Trudeau. But the first Canadian in space, a veteran of three shuttle missions, is more than a photo op in a space suit. He has a PhD in electrical engineering, obtained senior rank in the Royal Canadian Navy and was president of the Canadian Space Agency for four years before becoming an MP on his second attempt in Montreal. However, none of this was enough to garner caucus support as interim leader in the wake of Michael Ignatieff's exodus.
At the very least, these candidates provide credible leadership options. Should Trudeau beat them, it's not because he is a political lightweight.
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