It's hard to see how Anthony Housefather has faith in a party that doesn't defend minority rights, control deficits or fund the military

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In deciding to stick with the Liberal party despite his disappointment at its handling of the Gaza attack, Montreal MP Anthony Housefather made the practical choice.

From one perspective, it makes a lot of sense. His statement explaining it ran to about 700 words (plus French) but comes down to the belief he can get more done inside the tent spitting out than outside spitting in. The truth in that is evident from his revelation that, since making clear his dismay with fellow Liberals in a powerful address to the House of Commons, he’s been awarded with plenty of face time with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to share his concerns about antisemitism and has received, in return, Trudeau’s declaration of deep personal interest and determination to ensure Housefather’s worries are addressed.

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We know from experience that access to Trudeau is closely guarded even from his caucus and cabinet, to be doled out by his squad of attendants according to the prime minister’s needs and agenda rather than the applicant’s. Recollecting their years in Ottawa, several former Liberals, including senior government figures, have noted they had no direct means of contact with Trudeau without prior approval from his protective phalanx of intermediaries and gatekeepers. So Housefather is definitely among the favoured few for the moment, a situation possibly linked to the party’s dismal polling numbers and fear his departure could endanger a riding held by Liberals since 1940,........

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