Michael Cassidy
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Michael Morris Cassidy (born 1937) is a Canadian politician.
Formerly a journalist, Cassidy entered politics and was first elected to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario in 1971 representing the Ontario New Democratic Party. Cassidy succeeded Stephen Lewis to become party leader in 1978. He had a difficult job following Lewis, who was charismatic and dynamic figure. Cassidy's personality was rather dry. His leadership in the 1981 Ontario election was uninspiring, and voters failed to respond. The NDP caucus was reduced from 33 seats to 21 seats, allowing the Tories to regain their majority government. The Liberals neither gained nor lost seats.
Cassidy stepped down as leader and was replaced in 1982 by Bob Rae. Cassidy resigned as Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) in 1984 in order to enter federal politics. He successfully sought election to the Canadian House of Commons in the fall of 1984, but was defeated in 1988.
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Preceded by: | Ontario NDP leaders |
Succeeded by: |