Independent MP Chuck Cadman dead

[Maple]

First elected under the Reform banner, Cadman was challenged for the Conservative nomination in his riding just before the 2004 election, by an opponent who had sold hundreds of new party memberships.

Cadman lost the nomination, but ran as an Independent, and his largely working-class constituents returned him to Ottawa.

This year, with a minority government hanging in the balance, Cadman became one of the most powerful men in Ottawa. He ended up supporting Prime Minister Paul Martin's government on a crucial budget vote in May.

When he rose to register his vote in favour of budget amendments, the government benches erupted in applause for Cadman. He'd kept his intentions secret until the last moment.

http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/1120952381448_41/?hub=TopStories

[Spazito]

1. This is very sad news

He, imo, was one of the very rare politicians who stood and voted on his principles and listened to his constituents and acted upon their wishes. He is a loss to Canada as well as his riding.

RIP Mr. Cadman, knowing the legislation you were able to nurture through the House and Senate to become law will be a part of your legacy.

[applegrove]

2. Sorry for his family. But they should be proud of him for the way he

stood up to pressure and voted in the best interests of the country.

[yvr girl]

3. How sad

He was a rare politician. A man of principle.

[iverglas]

4. whoa, I guess we should have been expecting that

I'm not especially impressed by him politically (the enemy of my enemy really isn't always my friend), but he seemed like a decent guy.

I wonder whether he happened to see my wordy email back at budget time ... not likely, given the flood he probably got. ;) I'm glad I wasn't nasty (like I was to Bev Desjarlais, who can jump off a bridge for all I care), and did wish him the best in his recovery.