Only months after leading the federal New Democratic Party to its greatest victory in its proud history and only weeks after announcing he was taking a leave from politics to engage in a second battle against cancer, Jack Layton passed away early Monday morning.
Heartfelt condolences have been pouring in from across the country as the charismatic and hard working NDP leader succumbed to the dreaded disease at the young age of 61.
Very few will argue it was largely because of Layton's charm and enthusiasm that the NDP went on to become the official Opposition for the first time in Canadian history, winning an astounding 103 seats during this past May's federal election.
Even though many colleagues and pundits knew Layton's health was poor — he looked weak and frail during his July press conference where he announced he was stepping down as leader to try and battle cancer for a second time — the announcement of his death early Monday morning came as a shock to many.
Layton leaves behind a proud legacy as easily the most successful and arguably the greatest leader in NDP history.
Whether or not you agreed with his politics, Layton was passionate about his party and NDP policies, such as providing funding and programs for hard working families and the disenfranchised who struggle in their daily lives.
Through the sheer strength of his personality and his insistence on pounding home the NDP message, Layton grabbed the attention of millions of voters to lead his party to their greatest achievement only four months ago.
Layton ran one of the greatest campaigns in recent Canadian political history to lead the NDP to its amazing triumph back in early May.
Despite his obvious health problems, Layton travelled from coast to coast carrying his trusty cane and hammered home the NDP's message about social justice, tax breaks for average Canadians and providing a viable alternative to the Liberals and Conservatives.
In the process, the NDP wiped out Liberal and Bloc Quebecois support in Quebec and altered the national political landscape for years to come.
Unfortunately, cancer reared its ugly head once again and ultimately claimed the life of a truly great Canadian, whose legacy will be felt for the next generation at least.
How the NDP will survive without Layton's leadership and popularity is anyone's guess, but it's certainly not going to be easy.
Layton was not only the party leader, he was the heart, soul and conscience of the NDP and the main reason they climbed to such historic heights.
Even here in Bonnyville, Layton's presence and popularity could be felt. The NDP ran a candidate, Lyndsey Henderson, who was never heard from during the entire campaign, yet managed to finish second to incumbent Brian Storseth in the Westlock – St. Paul riding.
The main reason so many inexperienced and new NDP candidates did so well — especially in Quebec — was because of Layton's enormous popularity.
His passing leaves a giant hole not only within his own party, but across the country.
His passion, integrity and dedication will be missed not only by those who supported his party and NDP policies, but by all Canadians who grew to respect and admire a man who cared and fought so hard for the average working person.
Rest in peace.
