Remembering Jack Layton

NDP supporter or not, there is no doubt that Jack Layton's contribution to the political sphere is a spectacle that should live on in the minds' of Canadians for many years to come. As MPs are enjoying their summer waiting for the House to resume in the fall, there will be a void when they return to find the seat for Toronto-Danforth without that warm charismatic smile that accompanied Jack wherever he went. He is a man who enjoyed politics despite the rigors and turmoil that can ensue on Parliament Hill and was passionate about the country and riding that he represented.

He guided the party into the last federal election, which saw the NDP gain support as Canadians looked to Jack and the NDP for change. Set to begin the fall term as official leader of the opposition, Jack's health took a toll on him and forced him to take a leave of absence shortly after the election. Being able to guide the party to new heights and being able to witness it all unfold would have been a blessing and a gift for Mr. Layton. However, knowing the fantastic position of the party and the strides it has made with him leading the way, somewhere Jack is smiling down upon this great country.

To all of his family, friends, and loved-ones, on behalf of Cole and I and the Real Canadian Politics Community, I'd  like to extend our deepest condolences. We'll keep the Layton family, as well as Jack, in our thoughts and prayers.