flip-flop

Gabe De Roche: A flip-flop can sink a campaign. Or, as Doug Ford recently proved, it can also show that a politician is able to listen to the people.

In recent days the word ‘flip-flop’ has once again surfaced. Both McCain and Obama have made some dramatic changes to some previously held positions—hence the term ‘flip-flop’. We recall that the Republicans successfully tagged John Kerry’s campaign in 2004 as one of ‘flip-flopping’ on crucial issues. It did not take long for the image to stick and Kerry was never able to come across as a principled leader and a clear alternative to George W. Bush. Bush may have had contentious policies, but at least you knew where he stood.