A smart CPC leadership strategy might look like this:

1) CPC needs to regain seats lost to the Liberals in the last election (e.g. swing ridings in the GTA). Millennials and female voters make up a significant portion of these swing ridings.  At the risk of overgeneralizing, these voters do not appreciate identity politics or a lack of empathy.  Leitch, O'Leary: CUT

2) Canadian voters need a choice on whether or not to tax carbon.  Sorry Chong, you mean well, but CUT

3) The CPC needs to become the party of choice for new Canadians once again, with inclusive but principled immigration policies.  Leitch DOUBLE CUT, Bernier - RISKY

4) Government waste needs to be reduced, but don't rock the boat on health care.  Bernier - RISKY

5) Of the remaining candidates, Raitt and Scheer are experienced, with positive tones and could capture Liberal seats (Raitt in the GTA and Maritimes, Scheer in rural Quebec).   It would be nice to see the Globe further profile and endorse such candidates.