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Layton to borrow from Obama's playbook

The Canadian Press

Latest comment posted at 8:17 PM EST 04/09/08

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  1. J. Kenneth Yurchuk from Toronto, Canada writes: As a dedicated dipper, Jack, I'd caution you about getting too cosy with the Democrats in the US. It's a two edged sword, particularly on foreign policy.

    I can understand Jack trying to ride the democrat coat tails a bit, but remember the lady who rode the tiger...
  2. Hugo Hall from Calgary, Canada writes: Hilarious! Mr. Layton could not be more wrong...ideologically, the closest Canadian political party to the Democrats is the Tories.

    The NDP is irrelevant in today's political landscape. They are a relic of the past, a fringe party with appeal limited to militant unionists and those unable to work. The NDP would raise spending to irresponsible levels, scare off business with pro-union policies, go into deficit, raise personal income taxes and then brag that they lowered ATM fees. The only benefit they provide for Canadians is splitting the left-wing vote with the Liberals.
  3. J. Kenneth Yurchuk from Toronto, Canada writes: Hugo Hall, it is your description of the NDP thatr is a relic of the past.
  4. M Nolz from Toronto, Canada writes: So basically Jack will say a lot of nice things, blow sunshine where the sun don't shine and end up saying absolutely NOTHING!

    Probably a wise move to make.
  5. M Nolz from Toronto, Canada writes: Come on Lefties one and all, aren't you outraged at Layton becoming a puppet of Obama?

    Is the NDP now taking its marching orders from a yet-to-be-elected President (if he's elected) of the United States? Jack just wants Canada to become the 51st State. We all know the Liberals love the Democrats, after all they had Howie 'The Scream' Dean speak at their convention.

    Liberals / NDP - selling out Canada to the United States.

    But being Libs/NDP and having a hard-on for the Democrats, I guess that's ok????
  6. Hugo Hall from Calgary, Canada writes: J. Kenneth Yurchuk, a quick visit to the NDP's website confirms what I have said. Their policies offer little to middle-class Canadians.
  7. KT Ocean from Canada writes: what happened to my comment? here it is again:

    Jack says his environmental platform is 'identical' to the US Democrats. So, the Democrats 'New Energy for America' platform promises 'at least $1000 per year permanent tax cuts for middle-class families'.

    Where are the NDP tax cuts? Is he adopting the Green Shift tax cuts?
  8. M Nolz from Toronto, Canada writes: KT Ocean from Canada writes: what happened to my comment? here it is again:

    Where are the NDP tax cuts? Is he adopting the Green Shift tax cuts?
    ----------------------

    NDP and tax cuts usually aren't used in the same sentence. Then again, neither is tax and revenue-neutral.

    Yes, Jack wants to adopt the Green Shaft(TM). What better way to fight poverty than to tax carbon!!! Perfectly logical to me.
  9. Hugo Hall from Calgary, Canada writes:

    __________________________________________________________
    M Nolz from Toronto, Canada writes: Come on Lefties one and all, aren't you outraged at Layton becoming a puppet of Obama?

    Is the NDP now taking its marching orders from a yet-to-be-elected President (if he's elected) of the United States? Jack just wants Canada to become the 51st State. We all know the Liberals love the Democrats, after all they had Howie 'The Scream' Dean speak at their convention.

    Liberals / NDP - selling out Canada to the United States.

    But being Libs/NDP and having a hard-on for the Democrats, I guess that's ok????
    __________________________________________________________

    Excellent point! But as you know, there are plenty of double standards when it comes to the opposition parties.
  10. D Wiatzka from Canada writes: So Jack wins a single seat in the province of Quebec (the first EVER for the NDP in Quebec) and suddenly he thinks people across the country will believe the NDP can form a gov't?

    Personally I'd rather see the CPC and NDP being the two parties duking it out for the PMO but, sadly, I think we're stuck with the LPC.
  11. Harvey Mushman from cambridge, Canada writes: I think Jack better stick to his 'we are the real, national opposition party in Ottawa' message. Claiming to have a chance at being PM sounds even nuttier than when Dion says it.
  12. M Nolz from Toronto, Canada writes: D Wiatzka from Canada writes: So Jack wins a single seat in the province of Quebec (the first EVER for the NDP in Quebec) and suddenly he thinks people across the country will believe the NDP can form a gov't?

    Personally I'd rather see the CPC and NDP being the two parties duking it out for the PMO but, sadly, I think we're stuck with the LPC.
    ---------------------
    Agreed - at least with the Dippers you kinda know from the start where they are coming from, same with the Conservatives. Liberals on the other hand....who can tell. Heck, Dion doesn't seem to know one day to the next. Not even a comma will be changed....ooops, 6 were added totalling nearly $1billion!
  13. Paul Sallmen from Burnaby, BC, writes: I think people should remember the importance of the NDP. It's a party that won't form government, but will give a 3rd party alternative to the public. Even if you don't agree with the NDP's policies, democratically, how can one argue that more choices is worse than fewer choices? The Liberals like to claim they brought in national health care, but do you think they did it alone? Or do you think the NDP had something to do with it? Tommy Douglas (yikes, an NDPer) was recently crowned (unofficially, of course) 'Greatest Canadian' because of his role in bringing national health care to average Canadians. Do you think if we didn't have national health care, it could be brought in now in today's atmosphere of deregulation? If anything, it'll take genuine politicians (who don't kowtow to the interests of large corporations) to work hard in the best interest of average Canadians

    It looks like a fall election is now inevitable. I will be voting for my NDP candidate, not because I want to be ruled by a socialist government, but because I don't want all the power to be concentrated in the hands of one of the main parties (which here, seems to be the Conservatives, but in other years, it has been the Liberals). If I can think of a drawback with the American electoral system, it's the fact that they don't have a viable 3rd party alternative.
  14. KT Ocean from Canada writes: Has Layton even read Obama's environmental plan?

    Besides the tax cuts, Obama-and-now-Layton plans to require oil companies to drill for more oil, give priority to the Alaska pipeline, improve nuclear energy, make more fuel efficient SUVs,... Public transportation is not even mentioned in the top priorities.
  15. Ann Ig Norant from I want global warming and grow bananas in my backyard, Canada writes: LOL, better do a reality check, the best the NDP can do is hold the balance in parliament which actually gives them more power than being a minority would.

    Hugo Hall how do you know what would the NDP do, they haven't been in power at the federal level not even once?

    Also let's face it folks it is big business and unelected bureaucrats who run this country, the elected officials just do what they are told, not by the people but by business.
  16. garlick toast from Canada writes: 'We've had the liberals and we've had the conservatives and they've had us'. David Lewis
  17. Stan L from Canada writes: M Nolz from Toronto, Canada writes: Come on Lefties one and all, aren't you outraged at Layton becoming a puppet of Obama?

    No because I don't think he implied that Obama even glanced in his direction (why would he?)....what is more outrageous is that you would stand on a National Stage and openly admit that after failing to have any ideas of your own, and after wasting energy and finding out that slagging off the other opposition party and NOT the actual ruling party doens't work, you are going to lift another party's plan as a solution.....crazy Jack always good for a laugh.
  18. Matt Toma from Vancouver, Canada writes: Hugo Hall from Calgary, Canada writes: Hilarious! Mr. Layton could not be more wrong...ideologically, the closest Canadian political party to the Democrats is the Tories. The NDP is irrelevant in today's political landscape. They are a relic of the past, a fringe party with appeal limited to militant unionists and those unable to work. The NDP would raise spending to irresponsible levels, scare off business with pro-union policies, go into deficit, raise personal income taxes and then brag that they lowered ATM fees. The only benefit they provide for Canadians is splitting the left-wing vote with the Liberals. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ever heard of Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Holland ? You might want to take a look a what a modern social democratic society looks like, as that is the New Democratic Party. Much of their platform is a Canadian version of what you find there. You will find that your characterization of the New Democrats, and modern social democracy in general, is completey out of touch with reality, and has been for about 50 years. That you cant criticize them for what they are, as opposed to what you think they were, speaks volumes about the decline in political discourse this nation. Can you explain why you dont like the New Democrats without looking to the 1960's or without your pre-existing prejudices ? If someone called Harper an 'anti choice racist that only cares for big busines' would accept that as valid, as it is the mirror methodology of your post ? I highly doubt it. There are plenty of reasons for Canadians to like and dislike our political parties and leaders. A national debate without vindictiveness, vitriol and misplaced anger would go a long way in improving our democracy.
  19. Joe Black from Canada writes: D Wiatzka from Canada writes: 'So Jack wins a single seat in the province of Quebec (the first EVER for the NDP in Quebec) and suddenly he thinks people across the country will believe the NDP can form a gov't?'

    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Point of order (pulled this off some guy's blog):

    'Phil Edmonston:

    The last time the NDP won in Quebec was in a by-election just south of Montreal. Phil Edmonston, a leading consumer rights advocate (Ralph Nader, in a way) won the seat of Chambly in 1990 after coming second in 1988. Edmonston won in an enormous landslide - 67.7 percent of the vote and beating out the second place Liberal 27,000 votes to 7,000.'

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

    I guess their latest victory was the second.
  20. garlick toast from Canada writes: The NDP voted against the A'stan extension.That's why I'll be voting for them.
  21. wes maksymetz from tarsandistan, Canada writes: The NDP will pull a lot of ex-liberal vote. They didn't hide under the porch like like Dion and his cronies when the important votes were coming down. I could see the NDP challeging the 40 to 50 seat area easily. Dion made his bed in the last few parliamentary sessions and know he has to sleep in it. AND-------------------------------------------------------------------------

    'THE NIGHTMARES ARE JUST ABOUT TO START HAPPENING.'
  22. Bohemian Grove Club Member from Canada writes: LMAO...Good one Jack, your jokes are just about as sad as your party!
  23. Bohemian Grove Club Member from Canada writes: wes maksymetz from tarsandistan, Canada: I have to ask are you on crack or what? 40-50 seats, yea in Jacks wet dream maybe.
  24. Charlie Chan from Chanville, Canada writes: Mr. Layton . . . . . you're no Barack Obama.

    What a loser doofus.
  25. West Virginian Albino Mexican from Canada writes: Layton to borrow from Obama's playbook?

    You mean flip-flop on everything?

    I thought Layton was leader of the NDP, not the LPC or CPC?
  26. Fuzzy Bare from Canada writes: Layton and the NDP have little in common with the U.S. Democrats, other than the word 'democrat' in the party name. The NDP is well to left of centre and the U.S. Democrats on the right.

    Layton will be trying to get votes from the left, in contention with the Liberals, the BLOC and the Green. The left political parties have one thing in common with their electioneering, they all attack the Conservatives, not the party they are tring to win votes from. Strange strategy, unless the theory is that left voters will support the party, who is the shrillest in smearing the Conservatives. Or is the NDP hoping for a support role if the Liberals can reach a minority position? Might be bad news for taxpayers, if that happened, Paul martin paid $6 $Billions for support in a budget vote, in taxpayer money. Hello Deficit.
  27. wes maksymetz from tarsandistan, Canada writes: You watch Bohemian, The native are restless, the economy is sinking, the body bags fron Af'stan are piling up, Jack is on the populist side on these issues. But the biggest asset he has in this election is Dion the dud. S H will hold his own and probably gain a few. Liberals such as 'HUGO HALL' are crapping their panties, they know the record of their party is pathetic. the lefties need someone and Jack is their man.
  28. tony smart from penticton, Canada writes: Puffed up Jack as PM here...god forbid! He needs to LOOK, LISTEN, and LEARN and leave the ARROGENCE outside before he gets anywhere in Politics.
  29. free thinker (aka penseur libre) from not far from here, Canada writes: The NDP favours cap-and-trade to reduce greenhouse gases, not the Liberal carbox tax plan. This has been the policy of the party for 4 years I think (someone correct me if I'm wrong).
  30. Fuzzy Bare from Canada writes: Stan L... You of course know, that on the Montreal Island, the NDP could win some 'safe' Liberal seats? Keep the chin up, it helps when you are whistling in the dark.
  31. Bohemian Grove Club Member from Canada writes: My random 10 person poll says 5 for the Tories, 3 for the Liberals and one each for the NDP and Green. So, as I have done this poll for every election for the last 10 years to me it says MAJORITY Tory. Oh and just in case you don't find it to your liking it has never been wrong at pointing to the winner, even the Liberals. One more point, all these people work, so sorry no welfare protesters so you need to add one or two for the NDP.
  32. Brent W from Waterloo, Canada writes: M Nolz from Toronto, Canada writes: Come on Lefties one and all, aren't you outraged at Layton becoming a puppet of Obama?

    Is the NDP now taking its marching orders from a yet-to-be-elected President (if he's elected) of the United States? Jack just wants Canada to become the 51st State. We all know the Liberals love the Democrats, after all they had Howie 'The Scream' Dean speak at their convention.

    Liberals / NDP - selling out Canada to the United States.

    But being Libs/NDP and having a hard-on for the Democrats, I guess that's ok????

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    Spoken by a true Republican.
  33. Cyrus Of Persia from Canada writes: Wow. Poor Jack. Delusional. Just goes to show how these guys all lose all perspective.
  34. mynalee johnstone from saltspring, Canada writes: The NDP has some of the greatest humanitarians I have ever met in their party. They have some very wise and expert people on environment and economy as well. As a leader I am not overly impressed with Mr. Layton but so what for leaders.? Vote LOCAL.
  35. Matt Toma from Vancouver, Canada writes: Charlie Chan from Chanville, Canada writes: Mr. Layton . . . . . you're no Barack Obama.

    What a loser doofus.
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Nothing says 'courage of your convictions' more than hurling insults anonymously across the Internet under an assumed name and from a fictional place.

    Like him or hate him, Jack Layton, and other politicians in this nation, have to go out there and have the people judge them on their actions and ideas, as themselves, without hiding behind a computer screen and fake name.

    You arent in any position to insult any public office holder or seeker in this nation.
  36. Hugo Hall from Calgary, Canada writes: OK Matt Toma, you called, so I'll answer:

    Granted they have not held office, so all we really have to go on to judge the NDP is their policies. So let's see:

    -more money for everything from health care, social programs, EI, Seniors, aboriginals, education, child care, cities, transit, the environment. More money from where?

    -more restrictive labour legislation. At a time when Canada is seeing struggling in the manufacturing sector, what will that mean for businesses and job creation?

    -more money for aboriginals including promise of more expedient land claims. Does that mean more favourable to them, ie. less favourable for taxpayers?

    -on record as being critical of debt repayment.

    -has anyone ever seen some of the outrageous policy resolutions the NDP comes up with at their conventions? Read this:

    http://calsun.canoe.ca/News/Columnists/Robinson_Ian/2006/09/10/1821911-sun.html

    So what it comes down to, is people who call Stephen Harper an'anti choice racist that only cares for big business' are wrong (except perhaps in the case of anti-choice) and are just using rhetoric, whereas when we call Jack Layton on his policies - well, there's a lot of supporting information to back up those claims.
  37. Bohemian Grove Club Member from Canada writes: wes maksymetz from tarsandistan, Canada: uuuhhhmm, yea, sorry but your wrong the economy is fine in fact I'm making more money now then I ever did under the Liberals, again thats my take. As far as Afghanistan Jacks cut and run policy is the reason I'd never vote for him as clearly he has no clue about the world we live in. Better Jack stick to ban the dangerous TRANS FATS that or out to kill everyone. Even though all anyone had to do was not eat things made with it but the die hard communist in Jack said nothing better then to force good heath on everyone, rather then common sense. I feel sorry for you that you need a government that forces you to change your life style most of us change on our own when something is unhealthy, but that would require thought.
  38. M I from Canada writes: Jack better hurry up a write a couple of memoirs. He could be like Biden too and just steal someone else's story as his own.
  39. BEN DOVER from WESTERN CANADA, Canada writes: Jack. Jack, Jack. Get a grip on reality man. You as the next Prime Minister? Watch out for flying cows.
  40. garlick toast from Canada writes: free thinker (aka penseur libre) from not far from here, Canada writes: The NDP favours cap-and-trade to reduce greenhouse gases, not the Liberal carbox tax plan. This has been the policy of the party for 4 years I think (someone correct me if I'm wrong).

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

    Correct.It has real and achievable targets and can be 'harmonized' like the GST which it could, conceivably, replace.
  41. Hugo Hall from Calgary, Canada writes:

    __________________________________________________________
    wes maksymetz from tarsandistan, Canada writes: Liberals such as 'HUGO HALL' are crapping their panties
    __________________________________________________________

    I take offense to that, how dare you call me a Liberal :-) And with you guys and Stephane Dion as the opponents, I like our chances!
  42. Bohemian Grove Club Member from Canada writes: wes maksymetz from tarsandistan, Canada: Go here and watch Jumpin' Jack as you will see in 2006 Jack was saying the same things about how his party was going to form government.........still waiting!

    http://www.cbc.ca/canadavotes/quizzesgames/#
  43. J. Weatherman from Nepean, Canada writes: This makes perfect sense.

    When you look at the three options available, Layton is the most Obama-esque: energetic, youthful and with the same 'yes we can' attitude. Compared to Harper, Layton screams'change' without uttering a word.

    But style aside, I like what I'm hearing from Layton on pocket book issues and climate change. And he most recent polls appear to show I'm not alone.
  44. Stan L from Canada writes: Fuzzy Bare from Canada writes: Stan L... You of course know, that on the Montreal Island, the NDP could win some 'safe' Liberal seats? Keep the chin up, it helps when you are whistling in the dark.

    You are right...they could. AND he may be able to come up with an orginal idea of his own....might happen, never say never. And perhaps Harper will get some integrity....he could.....hell hasn't frozen over just yet.
  45. Brian Waddell from Toronto, Canada writes: Typical, Layton to borrow from another, he has never had an original thought, idea or proposal that would be for the good of Canada.
  46. Howdy Hicks from hog town, Canada writes: What a ridiculous little man Taliban Jack is. Come on all yous NDPers, go home and prepare for government! Really........

    When will they wake up and realise that politics is a two party game and all the NDP do is split the vote and gather together the crackpot ideas

    Like it or not there is no choice but Harper to run the country; unless the liberals find a real leader.
  47. WINNIPEGMOM99 J from Canada writes: The posters on this page all seem to be fairly intelligent. The one thing I am trying to figure out is why all the controvercy between which party would do the better job.
    True: The NDP have never held federal office, does this mean that they can not lead? They have held power in several provinces before?

    True: The liberal party is in a shambles. They don't know which way is up. Could they run the country, absloutly not in the state they are in right now.

    True: The conservatives make laws then break them to suit their own purpose. Should a party that has committed an illegal act run the country? Probably not

    True: Any way you slice it the Canadian public is screwed. At least with a minority government it will probably hurt a little bit less.
  48. wes maksymetz from tarsandistan, Canada writes: Bohemian, Jack and his gang will get 40 to 50 seats, and I stand by that prediction. He is far from inhabiting the shack on Sussex Dr. He may well in a better position to control the balance of power, since Harper is losing a lot of his heavy weights like Solsberg, Emersen etc. which tells me the rats are abandoming the ship. It looks like a minority will be the result. The libs haven't got a hope so Hugo and his buddies are trying to dis the NDP in hopes of the lefties stay with them. (HUGO HALL is a Liberal)

    If you are making money in this economy, good for you. The only way I can spin an extra buck is buying 'bear ETFs on the TSX.' Which doesn't say much for Harper and his gang. Harper killed the income trusts and for that I will never forgive him. I hope that costs him several hundred thousand votes.
  49. A B from Saskatoon, Canada writes: I always admired Canadian idea of originality. This tops it.
  50. haji georges from Canada writes: There is a small man
    named Dion.

    Even his own caucus
    wants him gone.

    Then thier is Jack
    I swear hes on crack
    watching him in the house.

    Though he lets a big roar
    and points at the door.

    Hes has balls the size
    of a mouse.

    Then there is may
    a clone of Tammy faye
    making a deal with Dion.

    Lets get to the polls
    and lets gitter done
    the sooner the better
    they will both be gone

    'Team Harper Lives on'
  51. A B from Saskatoon, Canada writes: haji georges from Canada writes: There is a small man
    named Dion.

    Even his own caucus
    wants him gone.
    ....
    ___________________________-

    I would say you rock - but preferably - you really suck. This actually tops Jack in being original. A Canadian writing political poem on G&M forum.
  52. Bohemian Grove Club Member from Canada writes: wes maksymetz from tarsandistan, Canada: Sure, it will all look good until people wake up to the fact that the Tories could end up with a majority and they will switch votes back to the Liberals in any attenpt to stop the Tories.....watch for it!
  53. Raoul O. Canuck . from Canada writes: So our megalomaniacal Prime Minister is calling an election eh? Chomping at the bit for a majority gov't. It's clear Harper will do everything possible to attain that goal -- the country deserves better than that.
    The best outcome for this election is to ensure there is another Tory minority gov't. Keep 'em on a short and tight leash I say, which means giving a stronger voice to the NDP and the Greens.

    One would hope for a change of leadership with the Liberals after the election too. Maybe* then they *might deserve another shot at governing.
  54. haji georges from Canada writes: Geez a b taker easy ,having a bad hair day are we lol,,just having a few laughs didnt know you where so serious about what others post for fun,,,,,,,,professor
  55. Charles Learmonth from Ontario, Canada writes: Faced with a hopeless and unelectable Stephane Dion, and a petty, controlling and right wing Harper, Layton is looking more ready for the top job than ever before.

    He may not have had the seats and the title, but Layton has effectively been doing the Liberals' job for them the last couple years: being the 'Official Opposition'.

    So what if the NDP has never had power federally? The Libs and the Tories have, and look at how that worked out for Canadians. That's reason enough for me to reward Layton with my vote.
  56. Mark S Noel from Canada writes: I can't wait to see the campaign posters 'Taliban Jack for PM!'
  57. garlick toast from Canada writes: Layton said three years ago that an end to the A'stan mess would require negotiations with the T'ban.Anyone see a way out without negotiations? Not only was Layton correct,he was speaking his mind.
  58. Michael Sharp from Victoria, Canada writes:

    I don't think it's outside the realm of possiblity that Jack may ened up in Stornoway.

    The LPC are about to tank.
    The Bloc will be hit hard.
    The CPC WILL get their majority.

    And the NDP could very well benefit quite nicely from the above.

    But PM?

    Never.
  59. Bohemian Grove Club Member from Canada writes: garlick toast from Canada: Did Jack try to talk with the Taliban? Right, he only suggested it what a man of action he is! He will always be Taliban
    Jack to me until he is dead, then he will be the dead Taliban Jack. What has Jack done for even one military family he 'claims' to care so much for.....right, nothing. Yup, a man of action that Taliban Jack.
  60. June from Western Canada from Canada writes: How these politicians spin.....Americans hate socialism so if Jack, the Socialist and appeasement promoter, who will tax the rich and corporations to equalize incomes, promote government ownership of all resources and utility companies and encourages wide open immigration and soft on crime ...he won't even get a courtesy call from Obama
  61. garlick toast from Canada writes: The Bloc will get their usual 35-40% of the pop. vote.Harper represents everything Que. nationalists detest about the ROC.The arts cut caused a lot of anger and will hurt the cons in a province where they are serious about their culture .
    M.S., how're your paradiddles ?
  62. Bohemian Grove Club Member from Canada writes: garlick toast from Canada: Again with your mis-leading post, fact is that the Tories have done more for the Quebec people then the Bloc has since their first forming. Quebec is more of a sovereign nation then it has ever been under ANY government of Canada in the past. Your weak statements compel me to post about your lies. Post one thing the Bloc has given the people of Quebec in the form of a sovereign nation by the Bloc in the house?
  63. garlick toast from Canada writes: Their own provincial party in the HOC and Gilles Duceppe,the most intelligent of the federal leaders.Their own immigration system.Like it or not,they take the billions given as their due but view cuts to arts and culture as an insult.It's a double standard, oh well,Harper should have known that.
  64. Bohemian Grove Club Member from Canada writes: garlick toast from Canada: That was not directed AT the French in general it was a cut to ALL out of country arts grants. If your IN Canada there are no cuts in funding. At least that is the way I read it I'm not an artist so don't quote me on that. The way you say it PM Harper was trying to pick on the French or something which is not true maybe more French are living outside of Canada? Fact is I agree with him on this I don't want my tax dollars supporting more people I want it to support LESS so I as a working Canadian can support my family with the money I work for 10 hours out of everyday. Not some arties farts painter who is famous for painting the world best beaver painting.
  65. Jay Fitzgerald from Canada writes: 'Jack-the-Workers-Friend' you aint no Barak Obama.
    The NDP has done nothing in its period of influence with the Tories.
    The last Australian government - a right wing one at that - made superannuation fund drawings's tax free. That's right - TAX FREE upon retirement after 60. What an incentive to save and invest for retirement, and get off the public purse of income suppliments
    That's right all right.
    In Canada the Mulroney government introduced a punite full tax on severance payments. It has never been repealed. Jack has never ever brought it up. Earned over a lifetime of work, this once only payout is taxed at marginal rates in the year of receipt. Daylight robbery on simple working people. Retireing workers are facilitated in most other countries. Australia treats it's retirees best.
    What are the NDP proposing for the demographic bubble of retirees which is coming in 2010 when the first wave of boomers reach 65?
    Jack can, for once, make a difference here. If the NDP raise these issues, the Tories and the Libs will have to respond.
  66. garlick toast from Canada writes: Bohemian Grove Club Member from Canada, perhaps I wasn't clear enough.Some regions, notably N/L and Que. take their arts and culture more seriously than other regions.BtW, the arts industry generates 25 billion in economic activity.Name another Federal investment which generates a four-fold return on investment.To repeat, arts and culture investment generates revenue by a factor of four.
  67. garlick toast from Canada writes: Oh yes, the '25 billion' figure came from a study done by the gov't.I guess their dogma trumps sound business principles.
  68. only mikey from Canada writes: Layton is pathetic--he is going to copy Obama--hasn't he got any ideas of his own---NO!
  69. Charles Brown from Vancouver, BC, Canada writes: The always pathetic Jack Layton will now think he has roots in Africa...
  70. Bohemian Grove Club Member from Canada writes: garlicky toast from Canada: Again I say I don't want my tax dollars supporting artist or culture as seen by anyone who has eyes the CANADIAN culture is not a protected culture only other countries are. If you're Hindu you bet you're protected, Iranian no problem but Canadian...yea right, has been since the 70's. Wake Up!
  71. spicydoc of the spring from Canada writes:

    Absolutely brilliant piece of electioneering by Layton!! Really!!

    Layton knows he will never be PM--his dream is Stornoway. Maybe he will get there.

    He wants to help Harper demolish Dion...how to do this.

    Number one--don't diss Dion or the LPC--too obvious and riskd a backlash.

    Instead claim 'shotgun' on the Obama express.

    The LPC are quietly ratcheting up their 'If you like Obama, then vote for us!' BS.

    But oops!! Layton is loudly declaring himself to be Obama of the North. This effectively makes any future LPC claims to the title look silly. What....the LPC are going to get into a hissy with Jack over who gets to be our Obama??

    Too funny. Too perfect.

    Well done, Jack. Beautiful move.
  72. Ann Ig Norant from I want global warming and grow bananas in my backyard, Canada writes: Bohemian Grove Club Member from Canada writes: What has Jack done for even one military family he 'claims' to care so much for.....right, nothing. Yup, a man of action that Taliban Jack.

    What has Jack done for the families? He opposed the war. If he'd got his way my friend's son wouldn't be dead.

    What has Harper done for military families? Sent their son' to die in a useless war.
  73. Jay Fitzgerald from Canada writes: Never mind the bullshit factors i.e. more nausious guff about Quebec malcontentism ( it's a political philosophy) and Canadian culture ( there aint one) and all that old claptrap . Get on with the business of getting a living. I for one am thoroughly sick of all this phoney bullshit, a Liberal election pertennial - remember Martin?.

    What about the majority of Canadians which are basically ' Canadaian working families '. Ordinary people in ordinary houses with ordinary jobs. Not the greed tax dodging driven wealthy. Not the lazy wiley dole blodgers . Just Canadian working families, white, black and brindle. Not Ontarians or Quebecers, but Canadians.
    And our long taxed and tried retirees who are coming on stream in their millions.
    This government steals our once in a lifetime severance payments and taxes our superannuation payments.
    We need reform. The great demographic bubble is about to burst.
    WE NEED IT NOW.
  74. free thinker (aka penseur libre) from Canada writes: Bohemian Grove Club Member from Canada writes: 'Again I say I don't want my tax dollars supporting artist or culture as seen by anyone who has eyes the CANADIAN culture is not a protected culture only other countries are.'
    _____

    Do you actually stop to think for a second before writing this non-sense? Protecting Canadian culture is what the CBC and just about every local radio stations are all about. CRTC... ever heard of it? And how is Greek music from Toronto or Chinese art from Vancouver not Canadian? Have these people not been here long enough - 2,3,4 generations? Are they not Canadian too - is their art not Canadian?
  75. Michael Sharp from Victoria, Canada writes:

    garlick toast from Canada writes: The Bloc will get their usual 35-40% of the pop. vote. Harper represents everything Que. nationalists detest about the ROC. The arts cut caused a lot of anger and will hurt the cons in a province where they are serious about their culture .
    M.S., how're your paradiddles ?
    --------------------------------------------------------------

    Paradiddles are fine.
    It's the flams I have trouble with.

    Dion represents everything Quebec hates about Liberal federalism.
    Harper represents the federalism Quebec federalists want.
    See: Bloc decline.
    See: CPC leading in Quebec.
    See: CPC leading big time in Francophone Quebec.

    Badda bing badda bang.
  76. Michael Sharp from Victoria, Canada writes: CBC Environics poll:
    The survey, conducted by Environics between Friday and Tuesday, found that 38 per cent of Canadians would vote for the Conservative party if an election were held immediately.
    By comparison, 28 per cent would vote for the Liberal party, 19 for the NDP, eight for the Bloc Québécois and seven for the Green party.

    CPC 38
    LPC 28
    NDP 19

    Today.

    And...
    The CPC lead in Ontario and BC.

    Tweak that Green Shtick some more, Dion.
    It's working for us.
  77. D K from ifoney, Canada writes: Well, well. The NDP compares Harper to Bush (yeah right) and now here's Layton wanting to show everyone how he copies Obama's speeches and platforms. The more he copies American platforms the less people this side of the border will want to vote for Layton. How about some Canadian originality Jack?
  78. garlick toast from Canada writes: Liberals are OK ............. If you cook em long enough from Canada writes:
    As much as I think Obama is a hollow stuffed shirt, Layton isn't qualified to hold his dick while he pees.

    -------------------------------and that's why you love Harper.You fantasize about his big poll. Smokin'!
  79. Howdy Hicks from hog town, Canada writes: I guess it is out with Taliban Jack and in with Obama Jack; or is it Taliban Jack Obama? He spoils us with choice.

    Perhaps CBC and Environics should conduct a poll on what little Jack should be called. By the way who are the funders of Environics... all a bit shady that one.

    PS
    It was Jean Chretien that rather cynically committed Canadian troops to a hot war rather than peace keeping so the deaths of Canadian soldiers hang over him.
  80. Jim F from Western Canada, Canada writes: Good for Layton! I hope competition for the left is especially competent and especially intense. Another minority for Harper, if not a new majority.
  81. Anuradha Bose from ottawa, writes: What have you been smokin' Jackie dear?
  82. Summer of Discontent from Ottawa, Canada writes: I'll admit it would be very, very refreshing for the NDP to sit as the "official opposition" against a majority Conservative gov't. Why?

    Layton and the NDP actually VOTED in the HoC!

    Layton actually took a diametrically opposite stand to the Conservatives and COMMUNICATED it effectively!

    Layton overcame his "taliban jack" nick and actually negotiated several important bills in the HoC with the Conservative gov't.

    Dion abstained.
    Dion was absent.
    Dion voted with.
    Dion had no voice.
    Dion can't be understood.
    Dion's own party doesn't understand his "green shaft" TAX.

    The election results:
    Conservative majority with the NDP in the official opposition.
  83. leo bloom from radisson, sask, canada, Canada writes: Maybe Layton should borrow from Ralph Kramden's playbook - has there ever been a public transit bus that old Jackie HASN'T had a photo-op on? Never mind Barry O, Jack...get some tokens and aaawaaaay we goooo!
  84. Undisclosed recipient from Toronto, Canada writes: Layton is to Obama as Elmer Fudd is to Bugs Bunny.
  85. Kenneth Yurchuk from Toronto, Canada writes: The headline is more than a little misleading. The NDP has had their platform of GHG and the environment in place long before Obama, and the Libs and Cons still haven't got theirs straight. If anything, Obama is stealing from Jack's playbook, at least on the environment. I'will also point out that McCain has adopted a similar approach to this question. All three support a Cap and Trade system, as do several major states (including California) and several Canadian Provinces, notably Ontario, Quebec, and Manitoba.

    There is a good chance of developing a co-operative and harmonized North American approach to the problem; the only way it will be effective, if Layton's approach is adopted.
  86. Anthony Hitsman from Kegaska, Canada writes: I'd love to see the NDP increase their seat count, but pigs will fly before the NDP forms the Government of Canada.
  87. Mr. Toronto from Canada writes: The NDP, my usual party has officially lost my vote, based entirely on this speech.
  88. Mark Stewart from Canada writes: I don't think Tommy Douglas would ever have considered copying any American presidential campaign...and then again I can never see Jack Layton being considered for the crown of greatest Canadian ever...
  89. Troubled Youth from Everywhere, Canada writes: Whatever happened to having a mind of your own?
  90. Howdy Hicks from hog town, Canada writes: The greatest Canadian title was bestowed by a media outlet that has remarkable low viewing figures. It should not be taken too seriously. Still a valid dig at Obama Jack....
  91. spicydoc of the spring from Canada writes:

    Kenneth--

    I suspect that Harper wll propose a co-operative C&T system with the US. It will be very much like what Layton has been proposing all along.

    If Harper has a minority, do you expect Jack to support it if it is 'modified', or will Jack hold out for every detail?

    PS--My riding is whatever the opposite of 'swing' is. I'm seriously considering giving my vote to the NDP, if only to bolster their overall numbers and allowance.
  92. janfromthe bruce from Canada writes: Well it's time for a new future - vote NDP. Harper didn't have any problems with his minority govt getting stuff done - where the libs propped him up 43 times. That's right folks, so no difference there.

    The real opposition was the NDP. So the NDP is running to win. Social democratic countries, like Sweden, Denmark, Norway, are always at the top of the heap economically, and socially. That's where I want my Canada to be.
  93. Kenneth Yurchuk from Toronto, Canada writes: Spicey, If the approach is reasonably close, I think Jack would be willing to find a way to make it work. Despite all the abuse he takes, he has gone out of his way to try to find ways to put forward his agenda in co-operation with other parties. Quite successfully with the Libs for awhile. Quite a bit less common ground with the Cons, but if a workable C&T can be set, with hard caps, and the revenue (No the NDP has never claimed the C&T would be "revenue nuetral) reinvested in the economy to develop Green Collar jobs and strategies, I think the NDP would be a player.
  94. Misery No one from Angus, Canada writes: Layton is the only one who makes sense to me. He talks to the people.
  95. June from Western Canada from Canada writes: those of you who think voting 'swing' for the NDP may well get what you vote for....then be prepared to be a have-not country as the policies in BC, Saskachewan, and Ontario proved. With the implosion by BC Liberals over a carbon tax and 43% raise to bureaucrats, they may well lead us from lotus land to death valley.
  96. KT Ocean from Canada writes: Misery no one, if you think Layton makes sense you haven't been paying attention to the discussion of carbon pricing. Layton doesn't understand that cap and trade and carbon tax have essentially the same effect on industry and consumers. Carbon tax can be implemented sooner and gives one more certainty in pricing, but the overall effects are the same despite what Layton says.

    Layton jumped on Goodale and on Oliver, both of which turned out to be false accusations, but he gives Harper a free ride on in and out and the Cadman offer, both of which appear to have substance (as well as Harper breaking his own law.) Layton is transparent and what one sees is not true to the NDP's original values.
  97. Bruce Frick from Canada writes: Come on - let's be realistic.

    Barack Obama is highly charasmatic - Jack is not.
    Barack will become the next President - Jack will not.
    Barack is center to center right - Jack is left of left.

    The only slight similarity between the two is that Barack has an Islamic name and that Jack supports Islamic extremists like the Taliban.

    Borrow any play from his playbook that you like - but the bottom line is you are still a loser!
  98. Larry Murphy from Canada writes: Why not?
    Obama is nothing more than Layton with a good tan.
  99. Unrepentant Outdoorsman from Dominican Republic writes: Ann Ig Norant from I want global warming and grow bananas in my backyard, Canada writes:

    What has Harper done for military families? Sent their son' to die in a useless war.

    Yup, you're Ann Ig Norant all right!
  100. rick from river city from Canada writes: for almost three years Layton has been a stronger and more effective opposition leader than Dion... Layton even took stands and voted for them. If Dion is going to take the Liberals deep into NDP country than NDP voters now have two leaders to chose from, and the choice would seem obvious based on performance to date.