SAINT JOHN, N.B. – Former Saint John MP Paul Zed says young candidates like Justin Trudeau will help the Liberal party reconnect with voters.

Trudeau kicks off his leadership campaign today in western Canada before heading back east.

Zed says Trudeau represents a new era of politics, but that doesn’t mean traditional issues aren’t important  

“Let’s also remember that this isn’t ‘Canadian Idol politics’. This is also about connecting with seniors, connecting with people who are less involved in your society.”

Zed says the Liberal party has been in decline but this is a new era with signs of rebuilding underway.