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Hello,
The director of communications for the federal Conservative Party and a prominent political pundit are at odds over the commentator’s qualifications to speak on party matters.
The conflict pits Sarah Fischer against Tim Powers, and began with a letter, available here in which Ms. Fischer raised concerns about Mr. Powers being described as a “Conservative strategist” in a story by The Hill Times, an Ottawa publication.
In this week’s issue, Mr. Powers is quoted saying that Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s political strategy attacking the federal government’s policy on the opioid crisis is more about framing the issue as one of security and public safety rather than the science behind efforts by government to provide a safe supply of drugs.
In response, Ms. Fischer wrote in the letter to The Hill Times that Mr. Powers is not a strategist for the Conservative Party of Canada or its leader. She also offered to recommend “an actual strategist” for the party if asked.
“The leader can also confirm that, in his nearly two decades as a member of Parliament, cabinet minister and leader, he is not aware of any strategic work that Mr. Powers has ever done for the party in any capacity whatsoever.”
Mr. Powers, a long-time Conservative, is the chairman of the Summa Strategies government relations firm who has long offered political commentary, appearing on such programs as CBC’s Power & Politics series.
In response here, Mr. Powers said on social media that the strategist label is used by the media. “Sorry I don’t have a Conservative strategist card that I hand out. In fact, I have corrected that before. But run me down falsely if that helps your cause.”
In a statement to The Globe and Mail on Thursday, he said he was put on the party’s 2004 leadership election organizing committee by Stephen Harper to organize the first leadership race of the then new party. Also, he was a paid strategist in the Tory war room in 2005-06.
He also said he has taken on several assignments for the party, including being a member of the party’s “Spinners Calls” where party activists are briefed on announcements and asked to give feedback.
“Sarah Fischer is entitled to her views but I am not sure there is any great value in running down me or anyone else who have had long associations with the Conservative Party and movement,” Mr. Powers said in his statement.
“Party purity tests don’t win elections in my experience.”
Ms. Fischer did not respond to a request for additional comment.
