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Andrew Scheer revealed the new Conservative leadership team Thursday – the first test of his ability as leader to form alliances with people who previously opposed him.

He made an astute move in appointing former leadership candidate, Lisa Raitt, as deputy leader.

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But Max Bernier, who was the first choice as leader of nearly one third of the party, was absent from the top team.

Scheer said he is not yet ready to name his shadow cabinet, including the finance critic position that Bernier is said to have asked for.

Raitt is an emphatic personality and there is a danger the unassuming new leader might be eclipsed on occasion.

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But it speaks well to his confidence in his own abilities that he is willing to share the spotlight. He campaigned as an unapologetic Conservative who could unite all the confederation of interests in the party – Raitt’s appointment is a sign he intends to live up to that pledge.