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Harper aims to crush Liberals, says former adviser

JOAN BRYDEN

The Canadian Press

Latest comment posted at 4:07 PM EST 27/08/08

Former chief of staff Tom Flanagan says Mr. Harper's long-term election goal is to throw Liberals into chaos, even if it means a return to minority government ...Read the full article

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  1. muriel z from Canada writes: Sounds like Harper, first the Liberals, then the country.
  2. D Epp from Vancouver, Canada writes: So, this is what all the urgency's about?

    Not a dysfunctional parliament after all, but a dysfunctional PM.
  3. Not the Alliance from In my opinion, The Harper Gov't is totally Incompetent, but excel at whining that it's ALWAYS somebody else's fault., Canada writes: Shouldn't the PM's priorities be to govern our country? Harper's been campaigning 24/7 for 2.5 years always with his hate of the liberals driving his agenda.

    Our PM's behaviour borders on the pathological. It's disturbing that our country's 'leader' is driven by his hatred of the opposition instead of his love and vision for our great country. Is he truly insane? Or is he simply a power hungry megalomaniac?

    Stand up for Canada!
  4. rick from river city from Canada writes: Conservatives would be satisfied with another minority government if it means keeping the Liberals out of power for another term of office. The Liberals have nothing to offer Canadians outside their GTA base.
  5. Michele K from Ottawa, Canada writes: And if it costs taxpayers $300 million plus, so what, eh Muriel?

    I mean, it's not like Harper has any kind of record as a good fiscal steward anyway. What does he have to lose?
  6. Skeptical Realist from Canada writes: I thought chaos already reigned over the Liberal Party of Toronto.
  7. John Francis from Canada writes: Quote:
    Harper aims to crush Liberals, says former adviser
    End Quote

    What has this objective got to do with providing good governance for Canadians. Yo Harper does not seek to provide responsible government or transparent government; he seeks only to gratify his own egomania.

    Bring on Dion!! He looks better and better all the time.
  8. Toomas Parratt from Canada writes: Be careful what you wish for, the Liberals have been threatening an election for the last year, with many posters asking Dion to force the election. Then when Harper does it for them they get all upset calling him a quitter. Hopefully this time the Conservatives can get a majority government and finally put Canada on track.
  9. true conservative from Canada writes: And us conservatives are going to be happy with another minority govt? Oh right, the G&M think that Tory supporters are mindless sheep that are happy with whatever our dear leader does. Three elections and no majority means it is time to go Mr. Harper - the only saving grace you have now is that Dion seems to be worse than you, but if he gets replaced, then you are mucked.
  10. Michael Crowell from Halifax, Canada writes: Liberalism is a disease. They deserve to have a stake driven through their collective hearts for past crimes against hard working Canadians.
  11. Bob Smitherman from Ottawa, Canada writes: This Harper fellow is seriously demented.

    So if I understand correctly, since he can't win on his ideas, he'll win by spending more than the opposition. ...on negative attack ads...
  12. Hans Lucas from Canada writes:
    The problem with Harper's logic is that the only reason the Liberals are going nowhere is because of Stephan Dion.

    Conservatives bring in another minority and all it will do is cause a Liberal leadership review which will likely result in Ignatieff taking over sans the rap that he has parachuted back into Canada for a power grab that hung over him 2 years ago.

    I hope the Conservatives get a minority and the country says, we just wasted $300 million to shift a couple of seats? Because that is all that will happen.
  13. Shades of Grey from Canada writes: After the election I want Harper to explain after $300 million in taxpayer dollars how another minority government has eased the dysfunction of the house of commons. Or how 30% of popular support has given a mandate for the Conservatives' agenda.
  14. ken kolthammer from Edmonton, Canada writes: It would be easier and more permanent to elect Dion, let him and the great socialist hoard destroy Canada, then divide the country and the national debt between east and west (pro rata). That way GTA could have thier own way, and the west could get back to prosperity.
  15. globefan Eh from Canada writes: So that's what makes Harper happy..destroying the Liberals..

    Tom Flanagan, neo conservative bed pal of Harper, likely knows a thing or two. Leo Strauss and ideology , the ties that bind them together.

    The next step in the evolution of this affair followed from Seymour Hersh’s report in the May 5th issue of The New Yorker that the head of Rumsfeld disinformation operation was none other than one Adam Shulsky, a “Straussian” conservative,” who had once co-authored an article on Leo Strauss and role of deception in intelligence operations. The significance of this link went beyond Strauss’ belief that the inter-state relations were characterized by rivalries that often dealt in the currency of deceit and deception. What cut to the heart of the current affair was his belief, as William Pfaff put it, “that the essential truths about society and history should be held by an elite, and withheld from others who lack the fortitude to deal with truth.

    The arrogance of Straussian thinking and the lies Harper and Flanagan can justify disgust me..thats about it.
  16. rick from river city from Canada writes: Dion has been campaigning since the night he slipped up the middle. Abstentions, flip-flops, 'markers' - anything to buy time for a party in ruins. His focus is totally on the LPT - not Canadians. Small wonder Harper and Canadians have had enough of this liberal charade. Small wonder the liberals are talking out of both sides of their mouth when it comes to whether they do or want to defeat this government.
  17. scott thomas from Canada writes: The stakes are as follows: Harper needs a majority government to maintain credibility for him and his party; Dion needs a minority government to maintain credibility for him and his party; both the NDP and the Bloc need to increase seats to maintain credibility for them and their parties; May needs to attain one seat to maintain credibility for her and her party. All of the above cannot happen, and it will be interesting to see the new dynamic after the election.
  18. The Real PS from Canada writes: Not the Alliance from In my opinion, The Harper Gov't is totally Incompetent, but excel at whining that it's ALWAYS somebody else's fault., Canada writes: Stand up for Canada!

    Gee, I guess your beloved libbies under the leadership (cough, cough) of Mr. Dion should have been standing up for Canada for the last 2 1/2 years rather than sitting down for Canada, walking out for Canada and sticking their head in the sand for Canada.
  19. true conservative from Canada writes: Michael Crowell - yes, but if Harper's action brings about a Liberal govt (as a minority in the next Parliament or a majority in the subsequent), what should we do to him.

    I recommend fire.
  20. Not the Alliance from In my opinion, The Harper Gov't is totally Incompetent, but excel at whining that it's ALWAYS somebody else's fault., Canada writes: Harper: Canada's first Sociopath Prime Minister.

    Stand up for Canada!
  21. Tim Cares from Canada writes: How do you destroy the Liberals and end up with a minority government?
    And what does that say about him, only being able to get a minority two times in a row?
  22. Kris Hayward from g-town, writes: Mr Harper if you get a Minority Gov't will you resign?
    We know that if the Libs don't get in then Dion is done.
    So what happens when the Libs get a stronger leader.
    Are you sure you have thought this out. You are neck and neck with a weak Liberal Leader who makes me wince when I hear him speak. Yet you are tied with this man and party
  23. Dave Cefai from Toronto, Canada writes: An open question to the readers. What do you think the possibility of the NDP and Liberals joining forces are? Over the last 5 years we have seen a reversal of the political landscape. The reason Chretian won all those majorities was not because of his great leadership but the fact that the right wing always split their vote between PC and Reform. Now the issue is reversed. The right is united and the left is split between liberal, ndp and green. Dion wants to do something impressive to prove his leadership ability (which I don't think is there)...unite the left.
  24. J G from Canada writes: Harper is a narcissist and only interested in himself and his agenda. He reminds me of Bush and Rove and equally evil. This is not about Canada nor Canadians. How sad for all of us at a cost of nearly half a billion dollars and to end up with another minority. I wish the GG would simply hand over the reigns as she can legally do.
  25. Darcy Meyer from Canada writes: Thanks captain obvious.
  26. Shades of Grey from Canada writes: rick from river city from Canada writes: 'Conservatives would be satisfied with another minority government if it means keeping the Liberals out of power for another term of office.'

    Great reasoning for Harper to call an election: I am calling an election because I am in power and I don't want the Liberals to be in power.
  27. Terry F from Edmonton, Canada writes: Wiping the Liberal Party of Canada off of the political landscape would be oh so sweet. NEP this, Libbies. It looks good on ya.
  28. Catherine Wilkie from Canada writes: Who does Harper think he is? What happened to the conscience and soul of the CPC?
  29. Haiden MitHand El from Canada writes: What a pathetic sociopathic megalomaniac -- putting his own personal self-interest ahead of service to his country as Prime Minister. Karma anyone?
  30. Average Canadian from Canada writes: Harper and the conservatives must be absolutely insane if they think they have any chance at a majority.

    I find it impossible to believe that the conservatives will not lose seats. They might win another minority - but their seat count will be reduced.

    And if they think another conservative minority will somehow 'destroy' the Liberal party, they are sadly mistaken. Whether you like or not, the Liberals are here to stay for a long time, and everyone here knows it's only a matter of time before they are back in power. (And similarly, if Harper loses it's only a matter of time before the cons win again sometime in the future - but with a different leader).
  31. Derek Holtom from Swan River, Canada writes: So, this is a trilogy?
  32. Not the Alliance from In my opinion, The Harper Gov't is totally Incompetent, but excel at whining that it's ALWAYS somebody else's fault., Canada writes: The Real PS from Canada writes: 'Gee, I guess your beloved libbies under the leadership (cough, cough) of Mr. Dion should have been standing up for Canada for the last 2 1/2 years rather than sitting down for Canada, walking out for Canada and sticking their head in the sand for Canada. '

    Except for the 'beloved' part, you are absolutely correct. There is NO excuse as to why these lying incompetents weren't given the boot earlier. Every week brings a new revelation about their deceptions, lies, and incompetence.

    Glad we agree on something!

    Cheers!
  33. whereismy Beer from Vancouver, Canada writes: Why should Harper put the country first before his own political ambitions? That would mean him acting differently to every other MP in the house.
  34. Tom North from Toronto, Canada writes: Immediately following the past election - the opposition party claimed that the new government wouldnt last a year.

    The new government has governed for some time - all those, who the morning after the previous election couldnt wait to have another election to remove the cons are suddenly upset when given the opportunity to do so?

    Is the opposition just so upset that the fixed election date isnt being honoured? Which, ceterus paribus, is not a foregone conclusion with a minortiy government.

    So why is it that Layton is so happy to go to the polls, and Liberals are not? An explanation preferably not full of rhetoric....
  35. Michele K from Ottawa, Canada writes: Shades of Grey wrote: 'After the election I want Harper to explain after $300 million in taxpayer dollars how another minority government has eased the dysfunction of the house of commons. Or how 30% of popular support has given a mandate for the Conservatives' agenda. '

    Oh gosh, Shades, thanks for the laugh in this otherwise totally unfunny situation of selfish Harper's own making - Harper - being accountable - with HIS history - ha!
  36. Skeptical Realist from Canada writes: Haiden MitHand El from Canada writes: What a pathetic sociopathic megalomaniac -- putting his own personal self-interest ahead of service to his country as Prime Minister. Karma anyone?

    -------------------------------------

    Who are you talking about, Harper or Chretien? Please clarify.
  37. Stan L from Canada writes: So this is not about wanting to 'Stand up for Canada', this is not about wanting to be our Prime Minister, this is not about wanting to prove to us that his agenda is the right path for us to follow, this is not about serive to one's country.......this is a temper tantrum designed to 'destroy' the Liberals despite what it does to the country.......you know occasionally a tinfoild hat theorist will pop up every now and again and talk about this and I always dismissed it as too partisan, too crazy to be true.....guess I was wrong.

    If the Conservatives bring up another minority, I say the CPC party stand up for Canada and get rid of Harper.....who spent needless money on an election he is predicting the outcome to already despite the state of the economy. Harper is already a two time loser....why do you need to keep beating yourself in the head hoping for a different result?
  38. Marv M from Bubble Alberta, Canada writes: ' Not the Alliance from In my opinion, The Harper Gov't is totally Incompetent, but excel at whining that it's ALWAYS somebody else's fault., Canada writes: Shouldn't the PM's priorities be to govern our country? Harper's been campaigning 24/7 for 2.5 years always with his hate of the liberals driving his agenda.

    Our PM's behaviour borders on the pathological. It's disturbing that our country's 'leader' is driven by his hatred of the opposition instead of his love and vision for our great country. Is he truly insane? Or is he simply a power hungry megalomaniac?

    Stand up for Canada! '

    _______________________________________________________

    Oh Please, get off your Liberal soap box and quit crying. What has this government done that is totally incompetent?? After a dozen years of very smug Liberal leadership, I would be happy to see Harper and the Conservatives crush the Liberals.
  39. The Real PS from Canada writes: Dave Cefai from Toronto, Canada writes: An open question to the readers. What do you think the possibility of the NDP and Liberals joining forces are

    IMO, zero, there's too much personal turf at stake. No one ever 'joins forces' one entity takes over another (no matter what they call it) and neither party would, in effect, close its doors for the sake of the other. Plus, despite comments to the contrary, I still think there is significant ideological difference between the two
  40. Catherine Wilkie from Canada writes: Does anyone now question whether Harper would allow his representatives to offer a terminally ill member 'financial considerations' to get his vote to topple the LPC?
    Or, does anyone now not accept that Harper would bend the rules of Elections Canada to win power from the LPC?
    Scary agenda.
  41. Stan L from Canada writes: Toomas Parratt from Canada writes: .......Hopefully this time the Conservatives can get a majority government and finally put Canada on track.

    You know the kool-aid crowd has been bragging for some time now that Harper has effectively HAD a majority.....so why are we not on track yet? You are proving to the unconvinced masses that there is indeed a hidden agenda that we should fear.
  42. Marv M from Bubble Alberta, Canada writes: Oh yeah, and than there are the other typical Liberal posts. 'Ooooooh, Harper is just like Bush, Oooooh, Harper is so Big and Scary'!!! What are you a bunch of little girls??
  43. Skeptical Realist from Canada writes: Marv M from Bubble Alberta, Canada writes: Our PM's behaviour borders on the pathological. It's disturbing that our country's 'leader' is driven by his hatred of the opposition instead of his love and vision for our great country. Is he truly insane? Or is he simply a power hungry megalomaniac?

    Which PM in the last 20 years are you talking about?
  44. Art Vandelai from Burlington, Canada writes: That's the difference between Stephen Harper and Canadians.

    Instead of seeing the other viewpoint as another viewpoint which is shared by millions of Canadians, he sees those who hold different views as 'an enemy to be crushed'.

    This is not what Canada is based on.

    Harper may be a good fit for the role of opposition leader, but he's a very poor prime minister.
  45. Haiden MitHand El from Canada writes: Skeptical Realist from Canada writes: Haiden MitHand El from Canada writes: What a pathetic sociopathic megalomaniac -- putting his own personal self-interest ahead of service to his country as Prime Minister. Karma anyone?

    -------------------------------------

    Who are you talking about, Harper or Chretien? Please clarify.

    SR -- don't be coy, you know who I mean, OGL (Our Glorious Leader). Chretien had his faults but he at least he had a strong team. OLG only has himself and his back-bench sychophants (you know, the one's with the duct tape stuck over their mouths).
  46. George Ruetters from Canada writes: Nothing in this article surprises me. Typical Harper ( Alliance Party)move. Let the country pay for for his arrogance.
  47. Marty York from Canada writes: All you liberals saying this is not a good enough reason... anyone remember Chretien calling an election when Stockwell Day wasn't ready, to throw the party in to disarray, only 3 years after winning the last election?
    Harper is a great strategist and chess player. I hope the Liberals are out for a long time. Does everyone forget how corrupt they were and everyone said they deserved to take a time out for the next 10 to 15 years?
  48. W M from Canada writes: Flanagan isn't completely wrong. Harper knows that the financial cost of the campaign will hurt the Liberals far more than the Conservatives. However, that has been true since the day after the last election, so one has to ask the question: why now? And, the opposition is providing the accurate answer to that question. Harper is desperate to hold an election: before the sh1t hits the fan in the form of a slowing economy highlighting the incompetence of their fiscal management; before the inquiries into the Cadman affair and the Conservatives fraudulent election spending further highlight Harper's questionable personal ethics; and before Coulliard's book further highlights the weakness of his caucus. He is also hoping that the US election will distract Canadians and reduce the intensity of the scrutiny that they will turn on him. In other words, Harper is doing exactly what David Peterson tried to do in 1990, when he called an election early to try to get it in before the recession hit. That the electorate DID notice Peterson's cynicism and punished him for it, just shows how desperate Harper is to avoid scrutiny of his own performance to date!
  49. Darcy Meyer from Canada writes: Dave Cefai .........If Harper is successful in his goal of relegating the liberals into choas and fragmentation, the left uniting may be one of the options to regain strength. Although, I think a more centrist party will be required to unseat Harper, and that may only require a leader change. And the Liberals (historically) aren't really left wing anyway; they campaign that way, and then govern around the center (depending on the leader).

    Harper's goals go beyond unseating the liberals by putting the party in choas, he would actually like to shift what 'center' is in Canada more to the right. So far the Liberals response is typical, shift left, but I'm not sure thats going to work much longer as Harper continues to set the agenda. The longer the LPC is in choas, the longer Harper has to try and shift center canada to the right.
  50. Not the Alliance from In my opinion, The Harper Gov't is totally Incompetent, but excel at whining that it's ALWAYS somebody else's fault., Canada writes: Even a rabid Harper supporter like the Real PS thinks that Harper should have been taken down by the liberals earlier.

    Even his rabid supporters, like the Real PS (in his 4:02 post) recognizes that Harper really doesn't deserve to lead.

    Could a recognition of the anti-social, pathological tendencies of Harper be the ties that bind Canadians together? Let's hope so!

    Meanwhile, a hearty congrats to the Real PS for being honest!!

    I AM Canadian. And I despise Harper!
  51. Diane Schweik from EDMONTON, Canada writes: .

    Of course JC had to call an early election in 2000 because,umm....er,well it was a good chance to win against a fragmented opposition which had the equally cretinous Stockwell Day as leader.
  52. Don Adams The Conservative Centrist from Canada writes: Yepper, could happen. Lovely thing to think about! :-) Totally destroy the current LIEberal party! YES! Then, TRUE Liberals can form another party, without the flaming screamers, the Dippers, in it, a Liberal party that's centrist, slightly left of center. YES! LOVE the idea. Kick these to h3ll and gone socialists back to where they belong.... as a fringe minority! Wouldn't that be wonderful. Canada, back on track!

    Oh yeah, be some unhappy Torontonians, but who really gives a dam, if the Country as a whole can get back on track.... a 180' reversal from where Trudeau headed the Country.

    Sounds REAL good to me! :-)
  53. Jesse Winger from SW Calgary, Canada writes: D Epp from Vancouver, Canada writes: 'So, this is what all the urgency's about? Not a dysfunctional parliament after all, but a dysfunctional PM. '

    Well put, D Epp. I believe mean Steve is on a tear to get this election called, fearful as he is of what the 'in-and-out' scandal is doing to his numbers. And he has to have the vote in before Obama and his Democrats get the White House!

    Fear and Loathing in the Conservative Party of Canada are driving this careening election bus.
  54. Average Canadian from Canada writes: 'The Real PS from Canada writes: Not the Alliance from In my opinion, The Harper Gov't is totally Incompetent, but excel at whining that it's ALWAYS somebody else's fault., Canada writes: Stand up for Canada!

    Gee, I guess your beloved libbies under the leadership (cough, cough) of Mr. Dion should have been standing up for Canada for the last 2 1/2 years rather than sitting down for Canada, walking out for Canada and sticking their head in the sand for Canada. '

    I don't understand this comment. The Liberals are the OPPOSITION. They are not in power. I'm sorry that you are confused, but the cons are in power. Even Harper seems to forget this most of the time.

    What pray-tell, should the opposition be doing that they aren't? I mean everyday they are fighting to keep the cons honest and bring them down, isn't that exactly what they should be doing? It's certainly what every other opposition party in the history of democracy has done. This comment makes no sense.
  55. Don Adams The Conservative Centrist from Canada writes: At the same time, get rid of GD political correctness! YES! :-)
  56. Ned Chiwalski from Oilgary, Canada writes: A crushed liberal is a good liberal.

    Even if the CPC gets another manority govt, the libs will have a leadership review and poor little Dion will get the boot. (boo hoo hoo) Then an interm leader will be put inplace while the real infighting (leadership race) begins. This process will take 9-12 months possibly longer and thn at least 9 more months for the 'leader' to get up to speed. All this time the libs are in debt and sinking deeper into debt. Result the libs are crushed!

    Go Harper Go!!
  57. Not the Alliance from In my opinion, The Harper Gov't is totally Incompetent, but excel at whining that it's ALWAYS somebody else's fault., Canada writes: Marv M from Bubble Alberta, Canada writes: 'What has this government done that is totally incompetent?? '

    Perhaps it would be easier to shorten your question to 'What has this gov't done?' Then examine the meagre results. Start with 'Accountability'.

    Stand up for Canada! Time to give our Canada-hating PM the boot.
  58. Steve Gibbons from Calgary, Canada writes: Liberal Minority. I can't see Harper retaining many seats in Ontario or any in the GTA. He'll have to make that ground up in Quebec which won't be easy.
  59. Garth Staples from PE, Canada writes: PM Harper poised to temper the Grits to 'working' for our support rather than taking it for granted because they (the Grits)are the elite!. Good on you PM.
  60. AJA M from Canada writes: Bob Smitherman from Ottawa, Canada wrote: This Harper fellow is seriously demented. Harper may not be demented but he is a hateful individual if this article is correct. Canadians will be forced to spend $3000M for an election which is not necessary at this time simply to satisfy Harper's sick views. Shameful!
  61. 100% Conservative from Victoria BC, Canada writes: Add my vote to Marv's and others who would love to have an election right now as then the LPC has to have a leadership convention in December at which point Iggy or Bobby becomes the leader and maybe just maybe they would offer up a better fight than Dion has though I must admit I for one will miss Dion as he is the best friend my party ever had and we all owe him a debt of gratitiude for that at least.
  62. Terry F from Edmonton, Canada writes: Steve Gibbons from Calgary, Canada writes: Liberal Minority. I can't see Harper retaining many seats in Ontario or any in the GTA. He'll have to make that ground up in Quebec which won't be easy.

    The new Quebec CROP poll puts Harper well ahead of Dion, who is in third place behind Layton and sinking.
  63. Vote Green and elect more Conservatives! from Ontario, Canada writes: I always figured Harper had a hidden agenda. Now we know what it is.
  64. emilio D from Canada writes: If Harper wants to destroy the Liberals, then he should start the D-Day invasion in B.C. Carbon tax is a mistake and should be completely
    scrapped.
  65. Mrs. T from Canada writes: Not really wanting an election this Fall, but I am curious what the true rationale is. Harper is very smart so it will be an interesting debate at least. If the Liberal coffers are indeed at the bottom of the barrel, that will be a huge problem for them. They are best at winning elections, not governing, and to win elections, you need $$$.
  66. Last First from Canada writes: Perfect, just perfect.

    Now we can rest in peace knowing that if they win again, the Vancouver Olympics will be directed by the military with the fuhrer looking to the games from the sky. The international crowd roaring bellow: Harper, Harper, Harper!

    And why not introduce some really cool retro games to it and throw all the 'letfties' to the lions as a new olympic sport?

    Harper, Harper, Harper! the international crowd roaring bellow.

    First Paul Martin, then the liberals, then Canada then the world.
  67. Skeptical Realist from Canada writes: Haiden Mithand - Coy, me?
    All you lefties jump on the 'slam Harper' bandwagon at the drop of a hat. You have been well trained, or brainwashed. If you think that Chretien was not a 'pathetic sociopathic megalomaniac -- putting his own personal self-interest ahead of service to his country as Prime Minister' than you must have slept through all his years in power. Chretien led his party with dictatorial powers. He had a huge majority, thanks to a completely screwed up right, and he ruled this country like his own personal fifedom for more than a decade. Canada is still paying for things he did, or didn't do, when he was in power.
  68. Wall Flower from Canada writes: That Flanagan guy gives me the willies...

    If Canadians allow Stephen Harper to remain in power, let alone get a majority, we will deserve everything that is sure to come our way.

    People thought 8 years of Bush policies were bad, Harper is the boogeyman incarnate.
  69. Marty York from Canada writes: Harpers conservatives have done good considering they were a minority. Much more successful things have been done and progress made than in 13 years of liberal power. They have compensated hep c victims, apologized to japanese internment victims, tried to improve victims rights over criminals. You can tell a liberal- they defend the criminal more than the cops that arrest them.
  70. Stan L from Canada writes: Marty York from Canada writes: All you liberals saying this is not a good enough reason... anyone remember Chretien calling an election when Stockwell Day wasn't ready, to throw the party in to disarray, only 3 years after winning the last election?
    Harper is a great strategist and chess player....

    No he is not....if he was such a good strategist, he would have TRIED to cooperate, convincing the unconvinced masses that didn't vote him in that he was true to his word, compromising and collaborative leaving no rrom for the opposiition to prove anything. In doing so, he would have destroyed the mythology of the 'hidden agenda' and convinced those who voted for him simply to punish the Liberals that they made the right choice.....He HAD to know that the only reason people voted him in the minrity position he is in now is to punish and to give him a try......but alas he is not a good strategist, and my prediction is a Liberal minority next time.
  71. diane marie from calgary, Canada writes: I am convinced that Mr. Harper is a few bricks short of a full load. Anyone who pretends to admire democracy does not wish for the utter decimation of his or her perceived opponents. Anyone who believes that he/she has a better ideas for the nation does not require the path to be cleared for such ideas.

    In all the time I have been participating on these fora, I have not seen a single non-CPC-supporter suggest that the CPC and its supporters deserve oblivion, but I have seen CPC-supporters suggest this about the LPC, if not also the NDP. Indeed, see several posts above. A vibrant democracy requires the give-and-take of ideas and the full participation of all citizens. What Mr. Harper and many of his supporters want is vengeance followed by dictatorship, and this outlook has all the appearances of a banana republic in the making.
  72. true conservative from Canada writes: Dave Cefai - a possibility if the next parliament ends up looking the same as the current one did in 2006.

    As unpleasant as the thought may be, Layton is probably the strongest leader on the left (not counting Duceppe who is not in most of Canada). If he picks up more seats, it will bring the NDP to its strongest position - so in such a case, Layton will not be looking to unite the left, he'll be gunning for the Official Opposition or PM seat. If, however, the NDP stay at the same number or lose - it would mean that they've max'ed out their vote and the only way to get power would be to form a coalition. If the vote is similar to the last election, they may form a coalition govt with the Liberals then. For Dion it is the only way he'd become PM and for Layton it is the only way to have a say in the next legislative agenda.
  73. Marty York from Canada writes: Last First from Canada, the nazis were socialists, not right wingers, so closer to the liberals actually. Gun control, state intervention in everyones affairs, dictator...hmm
  74. The Economic Hitman jr. from Vancouver, Canada writes: I think (long term) this could backfire on the Cons. Dion is a crap leader; the Cons should want to keep him around for as long as possible. An election loss and Dion is gone; anyone would be an improvement.
  75. Catherine Wilkie from Canada writes: Shine a light on the rats. Thank you Tom Flanagan.
  76. F E from ottawa, Canada writes: “He doesn't like being at the mercy of others. He likes to be in control of what he's doing.&8221;

    That just reaffirms why I won't ever vote for Harper. He is only out to serve himself. the conservative party is dead, all this is is the Alliance/Reform party that si fooling us all.
  77. Not the Alliance from In my opinion, The Harper Gov't is totally Incompetent, but excel at whining that it's ALWAYS somebody else's fault., Canada writes: Say, do you think Harper will find a way to cheat on THIS election too? I predict a bombardment of 'Not a leader' ads just BEFORE the writ is dropped. Maybe another re-vamp of our gov't websites, more mailings on our dime, etc. I guess the In and Out scheme is a given.
  78. The Real PS from Canada writes: Serious question, I don't want to be yelled at, I'm genuinely interested in people's thoughts.

    Do all the folks screaming righteous indignation at the article (which by the way was spoken by someone else, not Harper) seriously think for one second that the liberals, under several leaders, didn't think, act and do exactly the same thing when they had the chance.

    Resulting, by the way, in that hysterical review from 2nd City, Tory, Tory, party of two.

    No party, ever, puts the Country ahead of the party and if you disagree, explain the $500 million fine for canceling the tory ordered helicopters

    Really?
  79. true conservative from Canada writes: Don Adams - sorry, man. This is posturing and rabble-rousing. As much as we may want an election, I'm betting that neither Harper nor Dion will have the cahones to bring about an election.
  80. Billy Talon from Toronto, Canada writes: 'If the Liberals lose even a handful of seats, Mr. Flanagan predicted they'll immediately dump Leader Stéphane Dion, a forecast echoed privately by plenty of Grits. The party would have to embark on a costly leadership campaign before most contenders from the last contest, including Mr. Dion, have paid off their leadership debts.'

    ***

    Why the Liberal party ever elected Dion is beyond me.
  81. globefan Eh from Canada writes: Dave Cefai , good question, I think the NDP and the Liberals should talk to each other about strategy. Heaven forbid Harper gets a couple more seats..there would be no stopping him.
  82. Not the Alliance from In my opinion, The Harper Gov't is totally Incompetent, but excel at whining that it's ALWAYS somebody else's fault., Canada writes: The Real PS from Canada writes: 'Do all the folks screaming righteous indignation at the article (which by the way was spoken by someone else, not Harper) seriously think for one second that the liberals, under several leaders, didn't think, act and do exactly the same thing when they had the chance.'

    EXACTLY Real PS, Exactly! Harper is SO MUCH like Chretien and deserves to be run out of town on rails BEFORE he makes AdScam look like chump change.

    I'm really impressed by your posts this afternoon Real PS! The honesty is very UN-harper 'conservative'-like.
  83. C Braun from Canada writes: diane marie from calgary, Canada writes: 'I am convinced that Mr. Harper is a few bricks short of a full load. Anyone who pretends to admire democracy does not wish for the utter decimation of his or her perceived opponents. Anyone who believes that he/she has a better ideas for the nation does not require the path to be cleared for such ideas.

    In all the time I have been participating on these fora, I have not seen a single non-CPC-supporter suggest that the CPC and its supporters deserve oblivion, but I have seen CPC-supporters suggest this about the LPC, if not also the NDP. Indeed, see several posts above. A vibrant democracy requires the give-and-take of ideas and the full participation of all citizens. What Mr. Harper and many of his supporters want is vengeance followed by dictatorship, and this outlook has all the appearances of a banana republic in the making'.

    Where is Harper quoted as suggesting any party deserves oblivion?
  84. Bill Thompson from Calgary, Canada writes: Politics is a game for grownups. Many posters on here are crying, whining and pleading that this election be avoided. They stoop to petty name calling and insults of the Prime Minister and other leaders of this country. They are perfect examples of freedom of expression without responsibility. All they are managing to do is make themselves look foolish with little or no credibility – trolling I believe is the term for someone who has no real opinion but likes to see their name in print and to create disturbances in the discussions. >>>>>>>>>>>>>I personally would welcome a sound debate and not some partisan name-calling. There are real issues that need discussed. >>>>>>>>>>>>For example, it is not the Conservatives or the Prime Minister destroying the Liberals; it is the Liberals who have done this to themselves…their past is reaching up to haunt them and it is time to pay the piper. >>>>>>>>>> The LPC is in a terrible state financially, defending two major lawsuits, have few supporters willing to donate money to their cause or leadership contenders, have approximately one third of their caucus not running again, are having trouble getting candidates for all their ridings, have harnessed themselves to one policy that everyone sees through as nothing more than a massive tax hike in fuel and the so called team of Liberals is strangely silent as their leader self-destructs avoiding phone calls from the Prime Minister. The Liberals are doing a fine job of destroying themselves. They need no help from any outsider.
  85. Vern McPherson from writes:
    Is that the same Flanagan that tried to bribe Cadman on harper's behalf ??
  86. Randal Oulton from Toronto, Canada writes: >> Moreover, a reduction in popular vote would mean the already cash-strapped Liberal party would get less money in election expenses rebates and in its annual public subsidy.

    Actually, Mr Flanagan, you've just given us all even more reason to stay home and not vote for any of the parties, haha!
  87. true conservative from Canada writes: Marty York - actually nazis were social conservatives and social conservatives are a form of socialists. A diseased, soulless version of socialists.
  88. Vern McPherson from writes:

    Marty York from Canada writes: Last First from Canada, the nazis were socialists, not right wingers, so closer to the liberals actually. Gun control, state intervention in everyones affairs, dictator...hmm
    Posted 27/08/08 at 4:21 PM EDT | Alert an Editor | Link to Comment

    ========================================

    AHAAAAHAHAHAHAHA

    toooooooooooooooo funny martie ........

    nazis/socialists WOW !!!
  89. Catherine Wilkie from Canada writes: NEP? Is Harper's hatred of the LPC or is his hatred of Central Canada?
  90. Not the Alliance from In my opinion, The Harper Gov't is totally Incompetent, but excel at whining that it's ALWAYS somebody else's fault., Canada writes: But do you think it's too late? Has Harper already out-done Adscam and we just don't know about it? I mean the guy was cheating before he was even elected! I'm sure he's 'Done more in 2.5 years than the liberals in 13' when it comes to sleaze.
  91. Tetchy Citizen from Canada writes: War of attrition at whose expense?

    Let's not forget that Jean Chretien effectively 'destroyed' the Conservative Party not that long ago (2 seats, an aging back bencher and a Liberal in PC clothing) and look where that got us.

    If this truly is Harper's long-term goal, then he needs serious help. The only thing he'll destroy is our economy.
  92. The Real PS from Canada writes: Hi Not, I'm in the south west USA on business so I guess the extra sun is getting to me...

    And, by the way, you're right re Harper and Chretien, I guess whether you like or loath depends on which side of the political chair one sits.

    Cheers

    P.
  93. Don Adams The Conservative Centrist from Canada writes: Diane.... we've also never seen Canada being lead so far left as we did with The Cretin, and how Dipstick Dion would like to lead.

    It all started when Trudeau realized he couldn't get anywhere as a Dipper, and joined the Liberals. Then look at what happened!

    The pendulum swings Di.... unfortunately, it swung too far left.... we've got quite q way to go to get back to center...a lot of BS socialist crap to cleanse from the Country, a lot of education of people to stand on their own two feet and quit just turning to Big Daddy government, a lot of changing, where we give people a hand UP, not a hand OUT!

    Yepper, long way to go, but sure pleasing to see it starting to happen :-)
  94. Last First from Canada writes: Marty York,

    Don't lie.
  95. Stan L from Canada writes: Mrs. T from Canada writes: Not really wanting an election this Fall, but I am curious what the true rationale is. Harper is very smart so it will be an interesting debate at least. If the Liberal coffers are indeed at the bottom of the barrel, that will be a huge problem for them. They are best at winning elections, not governing, and to win elections, you need $$$.

    I would normally agree that you need $$ to win an election, but with all of the issues that are going on now and the public temper tanturms, ill timed visits to the democrativ convention, hissy fits at committee meetings and public fits of pique, I am afraid that Harper is unwittingly providing all the reasons to vote for Dion himself.....unintentional free advertising if you will.
  96. Vern McPherson from writes:
    bill thompson says this ::

    'massive tax hike in fuel '

    What ?? 11.8 % ?? less a 10 % income tax cut ?

    really billy the price of fuel oil has gone up 72 % in the last 20 months already ............. now that is massive ..........
  97. Still Learning at 78 from Canada writes: This is the type of PM that the US wants is that not right Mr Flanagan ( a US Citizen)? No wonder Mr Harper wants total control. Like Bush? I hope that you are no longer a adviser but which American will replace you as Mr Harpers leader.
  98. stand up mimi from Vancouver, Canada writes: Marty York from Canada writes: 'Harper is a great strategist and chess player.'

    True enough. Unfortunately, if Mr. Flanagan's analysis is correct, he is also far more focused on his 'war' with the Liberals than he is on governing the country. The Liberals are not his enemy, and neither are the millions of Canadians whose views align with theirs.
  99. Haiden MitHand El from Canada writes: Skeptical Realist from Canada writes: Haiden Mithand - Coy, me? All you lefties jump on the 'slam Harper' bandwagon at the drop of a hat. You have been well trained, or brainwashed. If you think that Chretien was not a 'pathetic sociopathic megalomaniac -- putting his own personal self-interest ahead of service to his country as Prime Minister' than you must have slept through all his years in power. Chretien led his party with dictatorial powers. He had a huge majority, thanks to a completely screwed up right, and