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by James G. Long (Author)
The McNair-Flemming Years Volume 2, relates a shift of influence by the print media. Newspaper reporting of peacetime events had always expressed a known degree of partisan views, but these suddenly became toxic. The result was a transition of political news from predictable to untrustworthy, to outrageous, and to propaganda. There was an evolution away from text-heavy political advertising based on achievements, to an emphasis on the personality of leadership. In his last public speech before the 1952 election, Premier J.B. McNair said with confidence: "integrity and honesty will win for the Liberal Party," and he was wrong!
The image of Premier Hugh John Flemming 1952-1960, was carefully monitored by political campaign manager Dalton Camp, speechwriter Kenneth Carson, and PC Party bagman Ewart Atkinson. Party propaganda and priority news cycle coverage for the new premier, were maintained by Michael Wardell, the editor/owner of Fredericton's Daily Gleaner newspaper and the monthly periodical Atlantic Advocate.
While his predecessor was challenged with significant international events, the affable, outgoing Mr. Flemming could concentrate on local events, his obsession with building of the Beechwood Dam, and his own self-promotion. He governed over a period of substantially increased debt, while holding fast to the belief that the path to prosperity was through increased Federal financial support.
