That is the question facing today’s politicians as they contemplate lifting the lockdown measures that have kept businesses closed and people off the streets for weeks. In many countries, wearing a mask in public is optional, but recommended. The World Health Organization says that wearing a mask doesn’t guarantee that healthy people won’t get infected, and argues they should be reserved for sick people and health workers.
But there is a debate about this, and more countries are choosing to mandate masks in public spaces as part of their push to return to normal life. Now, wearing one (or not) has become politically charged, and public officials are the very public face of that debate.
Rarely has a tiny piece of fabric taken on such importance in global politics. For public figures, wearing a mask conveys the idea that they are taking the threat seriously. Not wearing one can carry a message of its own—either that they think people are overreacting, or that they consider themselves to be above it.
Some world leaders have chosen to wear masks in order to de-stigmatize the practice. Slovakian president Zuzana Caputova has gone viral on Twitter for wearing face masks that match her outfits during press conferences and her swearing-in ceremony. Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe wore one, as did all his advisors, while he declared a nationwide state of emergency in mid-April. Leaders around the world, from Greek prime minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer, have posted photos of themselves wearing masks on social media, and advocated for others to do the same.
The opposite is also true. World leaders who have sought to downplay this outbreak have chosen to forgo masks, even when recommended by health officials. In the halls of Washington, DC politics, as Politico reports, “wearing a mask is for smug liberals,” while “refusing to is for reckless Republicans.”
The trouble with how inconsistent public officials are in wearing masks is that it adds to the public’s confusion over whether they should wear one. Not helping matters are leaders who wear masks incorrectly. In China’s Wuhan, mayor Zhao Xianwang wore his mask upside down. Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida wore an N95 mask during a press conference but left the bottom strap unattached. Brazil’s Bolsonaro (video) and the deputy prime minister of Belgium struggled to put theirs over their mouths.
New Brunswick voters have elected a Liberal majority government, tossing out the incumbent Progressive Conservatives after six years in power and handing the reins to the first woman ever to lead the province. Liberal Leader Susan Holt spent much of the campaign rolling out proposed fixes for a health-care system racked by a doctor shortage, overcrowded emergency rooms and long wait-times. She promised to open 30 community health clinics across the province by 2028. (Oct. 22, 2024)
Susan Holt has made history in New Brunswick by becoming the first woman to serve as the leader of the province’s Liberal Party, a significant milestone in the province’s political landscape. Holt’s leadership victory signals a new era of representation, gender equality, and change in the region, which has long been dominated by male politicians.
Holt’s journey to the top has been one of perseverance and dedication. Before entering politics, she built a distinguished career in the private sector, where she held numerous leadership positions. Her experience in business development and public policy has equipped her with the skills needed to navigate the complex world of politics.
In a province where women have historically been underrepresented in politics, Holt’s election represents a watershed moment. Women’s involvement in leadership roles has been steadily increasing nationwide, but New Brunswick, like many parts of Canada, has seen slower progress in achieving gender parity. Holt’s rise to the top of the Liberal Party not only shatters a glass ceiling but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of women aiming for political leadership.
As the leader of the New Brunswick Liberal Party, Holt has laid out a vision of inclusivity and progress. Her policies focus on economic development, healthcare reform, environmental sustainability, and addressing social issues that have plagued the province. She has also emphasized the importance of transparent governance and creating opportunities for underrepresented communities, making her platform both modern and forward-thinking.
Holt’s leadership arrives at a time when many voters are calling for change, especially in the face of challenges like economic uncertainty and the need for healthcare improvements. She aims to bring fresh ideas to tackle these issues while ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their background, have a voice in government decisions.
Susan Holt joins the ranks of other trailblazing women across Canada who have led provincial parties and governments. Women like former Alberta Premier Rachel Notley and Ontario’s Kathleen Wynne have paved the way, and now Holt is contributing to this growing legacy of female political leadership in Canada.
Her achievement highlights not only the growing number of women entering politics but also the demand for leaders who can bring diverse perspectives to the table. In a field often dominated by entrenched traditions, Holt’s election is a step toward a more inclusive and representative political landscape in New Brunswick.
Holt’s leadership signals a broader shift in Canadian politics, where more women and diverse voices are gaining prominence. For young women across the country, her rise serves as a powerful reminder that leadership roles are within reach, even in traditionally male-dominated spheres.
With her election, Susan Holt has proven that perseverance, skill, and a vision for change can break even the toughest barriers. Her leadership will not only reshape New Brunswick’s political future but also inspire others across Canada to pursue leadership positions and continue to challenge the status quo.
NDP Leader Carla Beck has two planned campaign events today, starting the day with an availability in Moose Jaw and then later this evening attending an event in the capital with the Regina Medical Staff Association.
Saskatchewan Party Leader Scott Moe, meanwhile, will speak in Prince Albert at the start of Voting Week in the province.
Saskatchewan residents can vote for five days starting today in the lead-up to next week’s provincial election, although polls won’t be open Sunday.
The NDP and the Saskatchewan Party are urging voters to cast their ballots early.
Voters can find their polling stations on their information cards or by visiting the Elections Saskatchewan website.
Chief electoral officer Michael Boda says there are about 810,000 registered voters in Saskatchewan.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 22, 2024.
