VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Getting along with the opposition is one thing, but Justin Trudeau’s relationship with Premier Christy Clark got off to a frosty start after she flat-out rejected his plan for Senate reform, right after it was announced last week.

There’s no question things off on the wrong foot, says John Redekop, a political science professor with Trinity Western University.

“I’m sorry to see a fairly cool if not frosty relationship develop right at the outset between our premier and the prime minister. We should be there [at the discussion] trying to correct a major injustice.”

He says the Senate issue is and always has been a big one for BC.

“There’s no reason why we should have six senators and Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, 10 each. It makes no sense,” argues Redekop.

He adds Clark should be working on this with Trudeau and thinks now is the time to discuss any changes — not make political enemies.

“Some have said the premier shot BC in the foot or shot herself in the foot. That may be one way of putting it. I’m saying she missed an opportunity. I hope she backtracks.”

Redkop adds there is still time to salvage the relationship and prevent it from getting even icier, going forward.

“I’m really disappointed that the decision was made. Our premier has, at times, backtracked and shown better wisdom. I’m hoping she will do that again. We need her to do that.”

He says it’s something she’ll need to do, if there is to be any hope of having meaningful input both on this issue and future ones.