Canadian Politics: Tories snag Chris Alexander
Diplomatic Star to Seek Conservative Nomination in Ajax-Pickering
Sep 18, 2009
Veteran diplomat and former Canadian ambassador to Afghanistan Chris Alexander has decided to give up his foreign service career in order to seek the Conservative nomination in Ajax-Pickering, a "905" suburban riding of Toronto.
The Conservative Choice
According to the September 18, 2009 Globe and Mail article "The Liberals wanted him, the Tories won him over," the move comes as a political win for the Conservative party, as both the Liberal and Conservatives sought to bring Alexander onto their team. The Liberals contend that Mr. Alexander approached them before his return to Canada, and after meeting several times with Ignatieff and senior Liberals, the conversation broke down when Ignatieff indicated that there would be no change in Liberal policy towards Afghanistan. However, Mr. Alexander contends that the party approached him and that running for the Liberals was never an option, given their policy on Afghanistan and his family's association with the Conservatives.
Regardless, Chris Alexander is widely regarded as a one of the leading authorities on Afghanistan, bringing a higher profile and touch of international profile to the race. His Conservative candidacy helps to protect the party from Liberal attacks that Harper does not care about Canada's place in the world. According to the CBC, political pundits are likely to put Ajax-Pickering a 'ridings to watch' list for the next election. Liberal Mark Holland has held the seat since 2004, but the Tories have a history in the riding, making it winnable for the Conservatives with the right candidate.
Those close to him are not surprised by his choice to enter politics, and Mr. Alexander has stated his choice to join the Conservatives was based "on a very broad agenda."
Professional History
Mr. Alexander was sent to Afghanistan at the age of 34 as Canada's first resident ambassador. He has developed a deep understanding of the country's politics and culture, and at the age of 41, will be retiring from his post as Canada's first post-invasion ambassador. He is noted among colleagues for his persuasive, hard-working and audacious nature, and was named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum and one of Canada's top 40 under 40.
Chris Alexander spent a total of six years in Afghanistan, but took a leave of absence from his diplomatic post to serve as the United Nations special representative in Kabul. Prior to Afghanistan, he served two tours at the Canadian embassy in Moscow. He speaks fluent English, French, German and Russian, as well as some Farsi and Dari.
He was born and raised in Toronto, educated at McGill University and Oxford University, where he earned a master of arts in philosophy, politics and ethics.
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