[Loco101]

I forgot to mention that John Baird would be someone who could reach out to more progressive-type conservatives. He is fiscally conservative but quite socially liberal. Something that can go over well in Ontario. I was actually disappointed that he didn't run for the leadership of the Ontario PC party. he was a cabinet minister when Mike Harris was Premier. But I could see him wanting to lead the federal CPC.

Baird was actually great for standing up for human rights of all kinds. I believe I have read that he has a same-sex partner. That would be a major shift for the CPC alone if he were to become leader.

I always found Baird to be hilarious and quite a performer when asking or answering questions in the House of Commons or at Queen's Park. He had a sense of humour that very few conservatives had. I have a cousin who lived in the same house as him while attending Queen's University. He was even known as "Rusty" back then and was quite the character.