In boxing parlance, last Thursday’s debate between Barrhead’s two mayoral hopefuls at the Chamber of Commerce meeting was like a weigh-in before a championship fight.
It was a chance for Mark Vriend and Gerry St. Pierre to take the measure of each other, and score a few psychological points without landing telling blows. The natural response to a one-on-one debate is to ask: “Who won?”
Often the answer speaks as much about the person listening and watching as it does about the candidate.
What sways a potential voter? Of course he wants someone who can control the Town’s purse strings and look after infrastructure. But is there something else that can tip the balance?
Last week’s meeting was not a forum for big announcements. Wisely, neither Vriend nor St. Pierre made promises that would leave them hostage to fortune. There were no grand schemes.
Instead, their comments were general and aspirational, suggesting the direction the Town might take over the next four years. What became clear is that Barrhead has a choice of two different personalities, two different styles.
Here we look at the tale of the tape, based on the debate.
Public speaking: If this was the only mayoral requisite, St. Pierre’s arms would be aloft. While Vriend spoke initially from notes and appeared slightly nervous, St. Pierre was a model of composure. He could have been talking to a casual acquaintance about the joys of golf.
Of course, the previous incumbent at the White House was hardly feted for his oratory, yet still managed two successive victories.
Likeability: Both candidates would make excellent dinner guests. Where Vriend has an edge is in that disarming down-to-earth quality that some political newcomers possess. There is a freshness about him; he is unchastened by public office, he is probably more likely to see opportunities than limitations. His charm may well connect with some voters.
Experience: Politically, St. Pierre wins easily. He has served twice on Town council, Vriend is a neophyte. On the business front, the picture is more complicated. St. Pierre was a long-serving general manager of the Co-Op, while Vriend has a terrific track record in business. The difference is that Vriend’s financial decisions directly affected himself and his family. Some might find this a more impressive demonstration of fiscal management.
Looking Mayoral: St. Pierre looks tailor-made – literally – for the Major’s office, while Vriend seems to prefer a more informal appearance. Are appearances important? To many they are.
X factor: This is where Vriend could have a knockout capability. However, as a relative unknown, the onus is on him to make the moves. He has to excite people, to gain their confidence.
Some pundits are predicting an early round knockout for the more seasoned political campaigner St. Pierre. However, the history of politics – just like boxing – is replete with upsets.
