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A lively Dion slams ‘out of touch' Harper

JANE TABER AND TENILLE BONOGUORE

Globe and Mail Update

Latest comment posted at 1:34 PM EST 08/10/08

Liberal Leader Stéphane Dion says Stephen Harper has ‘failed the most important test of leadership,' and economic action is needed ...Read the full article

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  1. Darcy Meyer from Canada writes: The provinces need Ottawa to stay out of the way. The Markets also need the government to stay out of the way. Of course, you know this Mr. Dion as you and Harper actually have the same plan for the current economic challenges. The difference is he is actually implementing it.
  2. F E from ottawa, Canada writes: A minority government is badly needed to ride out this storm, there is no one solution and the provinces do have to work together. Harper's plan was simply too little and perhaps too late.
  3. Hugo Hall from Calgary, Canada writes: Mr. Dion, I am happy to hear this and would love to take you at your word that the provinces will work together. That means that Alberta and Saskatchewan should not be unfairly targeted due to their strong economies in order to buy votes in Ontario and Quebec.
  4. Rick C from Calgary, Canada writes: Shove it Dion.

    Your entire platform is centered on cratering the economies of Alberta and the other Provinces with resource extraction industries.

    Dion has already proven he is an enemy to any Province that produces oil so spare us the drivel about wanting to work together.

    There is nothing to work together on as we have no plans to acquiesce in a rapid trip to the poor house.
  5. Catherine Wilkie from Canada writes: Respecting all provinces and territorial. Working with his strong team. These are all things missing with Harper.
    Harper is too risky in tough times.
  6. true conservative from Canada writes: Hugo Hall - you know that AB and SK are going to get plundered no matter who becomes PM. Quebec's even going to play the 'Paper Planes' song while they take your money. Even after it has been shown to a be pipe dream, some CPCers are trying to buy votes in Quebec instead of appealing to the GTA suburbs. Unless the next govt is at least 50% Ontario MPs, you are going to see a lot of promises for Quebec.
  7. B M from Barrie, Canada writes: It is truly a shame that we have resorted to Americain style slander politics where instead of campaigning on our platform and on the issues, we spend an inordinate amount of time, energy and yes money, bashing the other party leaders. Both the Liberal and NDP leaders have completely abandoned their platforms for this new style of politics. The only one still focusing on this platform is Harper. When was the last time anyone heard about Dion's Green Shift. Even seasoned politicians have been uncharacteristically quiet of late; Chretien, Mulroney, Ignatief, Broadbent.....none of them want a part is this debacle. It's truly a shame Canada. We work so hard to distinguish ourselves from our Southern neighbours and now we are becoming them.
  8. Kevin Desmoulin from Toronto, Canada writes: Here we see a man that is willing to be a Leader, A True Leader that will take in account of all provinces and people in this country of ours.
    One that will work to solutions and engage others in the effort.
    One that is willing to think beyond a political ideology.
    Empathic, intelligence, respectful ethical.

    I have noted that Harper and conservatives are out of gas, on the rocks.
    What else can they do, bring forth some of the other conservatives candidates to shore up support, Lets just wait until they open thier mouths to answer questions. Sitting ducks
  9. Catherine Wilkie from Canada writes: Harper broke his own promise of fixed election dates by calling this election in an attempt to outrun a worsening economy.
    Canadians have seen turn and twist as his poll numbers plummet.
    Now, he is attempting to scare the electorate by demeaning the opposition.
    Harper's using a lame 'scary agenda' argument. And he looks desperate. Those around him look shocked.
  10. H Texmes from Gadshill Station, Canada writes: And what if the provinces demand an immediate $30B of 'government stimulus' to get things moving by way of a federal deficit? Will he do it?
    Will he raise the GST by 5% to try to pay for it? Would that be strong leadership or just a wimp?

  11. rick from river city from Canada writes: Said Mr. Dion on Wednesday: “Canadians, we worry about our savings, our jobs. For many of us it is more than worry. It is the hurt, the harm.”

    Yes, I would suspect the bumbling inept Dion is very worried about his debts and his job. Fortunately he is one Canadian Harper does not have to feel empathy for.

    Liberals have been so busy with their party shennanigans over the past decade that they have no sense of Canada at all. They are non-entities west of Ontario, dispised by Quebec and seen with a certain amount of trepidation by Ontarioians outside the GTA. Chosing Dion as their leader fixed none of that. Nothing could be more 'out of touch' with the current situation in Canada then Dion's great masterpiece, the Green Shift. Apparently he didn't mention it much in his Toronto speech this morning. Wonder why?
  12. Catherine Wilkie from Canada writes: Harper is using the 'mom and apple pie' treatment in an attempt to look friendly and caring.
    Yet, his punitive tone and smirk betray his own words.
  13. Dave Jansen - A progressive centrist from Canada writes: Dion is correct.

    Harper is out of touch. Harper simply doesn't get it.
  14. rick from river city from Canada writes: The only thing more scary than Dion as PM is his platform. The Green Shift will only work if Canada has 4% growth yet Dion is adamant that he and the Green Shift go hand in hand.
  15. Stan L from Canada writes: B M from Barrie, Canada writes: It is truly a shame that we have resorted to Americain style slander politics where instead of campaigning on our platform and on the issues, we spend an inordinate amount of time, energy and yes money, bashing the other party leaders. Both the Liberal and NDP leaders have completely abandoned their platforms for this new style of politics.

    That is so funny, the fact is that when the Liberals suffered the slings and arrows of two years worth of attack ads, tory supporters on this board thought that was just fine. When Harper released that manual about how to disrupt committees and the work of the HOC, you all thought that was fair game, when Dion wanted to take the Environmental debate to the public this summer (knowing that this is a BIG topic) so they could hear a variety of options, Harper gave us talking oil splotches.....and now you lament the lack of discussion? LOL....
  16. Dave Jansen - A progressive centrist from Canada writes: .

    It's unfortunate that Harper squandered a 13 Billion surplus.

    We could have used that money to inject a much needed stimulus into the economy, perhaps by way of a national infrastructure program.

    Instead, rich people save a lot of money now when they buy lexus's and Range Rovers. Harper must be very proud of himself.

    Harper simply doesn't get it.
  17. Blaque Jacque Shallaque from Canada writes: Dion's leadership has already failed the test. He cannot even lead his own party, and replacements are well lined up.

    The Libs are not a federal party any more - they will not get more than 2 seats east of Ontario

    In Quebec Dion is despised.

    Some leader.

    Right now the scenario is that Dion will lead, the NDP will set fiscal policy, and the Bloc will lead the national unity debate.

    What a joke.

    CPC. Harper. Steady calm leadership, not a bunch of hysterical panicking twits.
  18. Blaque Jacque Shallaque from Canada writes: Doh! I mean the Liberals will not get 2 seats WEST of Ontario. Accursed too fast typing..
  19. Unsure Voter from Guelph, Canada writes: As much as I hate Dion, I must admit he has done a good job taking advantage of Harper's weaknesses this week and firing with all guns.

    Having said that, keep in mind that the No 1 issue on Canadians' minds right now is the economy. How can you expect Dion to run the country properly when he can't even manage the finances of his own party? That, for me, is a very scary thing. And as for Jack, well, his solution to everything is to throw more money at it. Unfortunately, his plan would most definitely require taxpayers to pay more of their paycheques into the government coffers. As for May, she's not going to do anything substantial in the government this time around anyways, so any vote for her is simply symbolic (Albeit possibly history in the making.)

    I know Harper isn't a very good choice, but then again, who is? Keep in mind that Martin and Chretien did a good job managing the economy, but since then the Libs have been very poorly managing their own party finances. The days of Chretien and Martin and long over. We need to give the Liberals another 4 years to recover, regroup, get a new leader, and get back to a position where they can actually lead again.
  20. bill johnson from Quebec, Canada writes: Lively Dion will kill the Canadian economy with his wild tax plan. Period.
  21. Derek Holtom from Swan River, Canada writes: Catherine Wilkie from Canada writes: Respecting all provinces and territorial. Working with his strong team. These are all things missing with Harper.
    Harper is too risky in tough times.

    --

    no Liberal has ever respected Alberta
    Harper too risky? the west is trembling with fear at Dion and his carbon tax
  22. Hi there from Canada writes: Catherine Wilkie from Canada writes: Respecting all provinces and territorial. Working with his strong team. These are all things missing with Harper.
    Harper is too risky in tough times.

    ----------
    Harper is too risky in tough times.
  23. Dan L from Montreal, Canada writes: GO Dion!
  24. BurpN Run from Fear Mongers, Canada writes: Dion and Layton are selfishly purveying fear to Canadians during economic turmoil in the world, just to get elected. This is the height of irresponsibility. They can't do ONE thing more than the PM is doing now, but they think they hit on a 'winning strategy'. Thanks Dion. Thanks Layton. How cynical and self-serving. And Canadians are seriously considering these jack-asses as 'leaders'? They sell out morals and principles just to get elected!
  25. Del Smith from Canada writes: I thought it was pretty pathetic last night when Harper tried to show empathy by mentioning his mother is worried about her STOCK PORTFOLIO.

    Hello, Harper -- most seniors don't have a stock portfolio. Most seniors have RRSPs, or a little pension, or just the old age pension.
    Most seniors aren't living in a taxpayer subsidized mansion.
  26. Cadillac Rancher from VOTE STRATEGICALLY to Keep Cons OUT - www.voteforenvironment.ca, writes: .

    Who looked at the environmental situation and decided to DO something about it, put a viable plan out there for people, and stick with it?

    DION.

    Who looked at the market situation and decided to DO something about it, with immediate coordinated action?

    DION.

    Who will actually deal with issues and problems instead of playing politics and attacking others?

    DION.

    .
  27. paul gilliam from Gatineau, Canada writes:
    The economic problems are a godsend for Mr. Dion who would've been
    blown out of the water otherwise. Instead he's capitalized on fear and
    the false claim that he has answers the conservatives do not.

    Libs prey on the gullible. They've never truly been held to account for their their terrible record on promises (gst/free trade) and on honesty (sponsorship). It's time to do that now.
  28. Trudeau's Apricot poodle from Canada writes: And the crowd lept to it's feet... and left. later that same day, in a stock exchange not far away, under cover of liberal instituted tax regulations, a few dollars surrupiciousl slipped out of town. Repeated as required.
  29. Black Knight7 from Sudbury, Canada writes: The opposition is enagaging in hysteria over the economy. It's still too early to know how it will all shake down.
    Martin & Chretien didn't do anything to manage the economy except download budget contraints to the provinces. They only wisely decided not to srap the GST and free trade, even though they promised to, and then they reaped the benefits from the economiic expansion from expanding foreign trade under free trade and the GST. Rather than give Mulroney any credit they pretended it was all their economic magic to a gullible and naive public.
  30. Brian B from Canada writes: 'Mr. Dion also criticized the Conservative Party for releasing its policy platform yesterday, one week before the Oct. 14 federal election'.

    If I remember correctly Mr. Dion said he would release HIS fiscal platform 30 days AFTER he is Prime Minister.
    Anyone want to buy a pig in a poke?
  31. Mike........ Just Mike from toronto, Canada writes: B M from Barrie, Canada writes: It is truly a shame that we have resorted to Americain style slander politics where instead of campaigning on our platform and on the issues, we spend an inordinate amount of time, energy and yes money, bashing the other party leaders. Both the Liberal and NDP leaders have completely abandoned their platforms for this new style of politics. The only one still focusing on this platform is Harper. When was the last time anyone heard about Dion's Green Shift. Even seasoned politicians have been uncharacteristically quiet of late; Chretien, Mulroney, Ignatief, Broadbent.....none of them want a part is this debacle. It's truly a shame Canada. We work so hard to distinguish ourselves from our Southern neighbours and now we are becoming them __________________________________________________ Are you being deliberately daft or just intellectually dishonest. You know full well that Harper brought gutter politcs here. Dion is showing up Harper and good for him. The amount of slander and lies hurled at Dion courtesy of Harper has been disgusting. Dion is speaking to Canadians and is now able to connect with them. Harper spent millions to try and portray him as weak. But in the end it's all been falling around Harpers ears and it looks good on him.
  32. JC Kelan from Amherst, Canada writes: It is truly mind-boggling that Stephane Dion would share the same table as Paul Martin and Ralph Goodale. One could only hope that a bit of their fiscal prudence and caution would rub off.

    Unfortunately, it has not. Dion continues to stick to his Green Shift Carbon Tax. This will be devastating for the Canadian economy. Businesses that are already hurting will be forced under.

    I wonder why Mr. Martin and Mr. Goodale have not come out and boldly declared their full and enthusiastic support for the Carbon Tax.

    Really, we know the answer. Goodale is taking a beating for it in Saskatchewan. Neither of them would endorse such a risky proposal at such a difficult time.

    Stephane Dion is no Paul Martin!
  33. Cars, Watches, Shoes...Women. In that order. from Vancouver, Canada writes: Am I the only one who remembers a PM that was from Quebec, didn't speak too much gooder in the Eeengleesh, had a great Team of MP's, took us out of deficit ($41B !!), helped draft the Charter, didn't send us to Iraq, was good at choking irritating protesters that got through security lines, confronted an intruder at 24 Sussex with a vase and had the chutzpah to tell Bush 43 to get lost...? Maybe Dion deserves a chance. Harper thought he was smart to break his own LAW and call an election. Waste $64M on it and we'll be in the same boat at the least. He also doesn't know how to build a Team. He lost his best MP's to 'retirement', didn't anticipate that Rovian fear politics doesn't work on a well informed Canadian electorate and that he's not running for President. Canada is a Parliamentary democracy and he has to be a bridge builder and not a demolitions expert to gain people's trust. Peter MacKay, good job on the 'merger'. I wonder why no Progressive Cons have supported Steve except for Hugh Segal? Sorry, that was rhetorical.
  34. Catherine Wilkie from Canada writes: Harper is using all of the tools in his chest. Fear. Mom and apple pie.
    But, he is what he is.
    A friend of big oil and corporations.
  35. Joan Forsey from Canada writes:

    It's no wonder Dion won't dwell on the Green Shift. It doesn't make sense. He has said a Liberal government would collect $40 billion -- but isn't that an admission that the Green Shift wouldn't work, since it's polluters who would be paying the $40 billion. And if industries pay $40 billion in the carbon tax, won't they be likely to recoup that money from customers? So: polluters would pay the government, the government would pay customers (and other Canadians) in tax cuts, and the customers would pay the polluters. This circle makes no sense, yet it's the centre of the Dion plan.
  36. Johnny Test from Pork Belly, Canada writes: The Conservatives will still win on Tuesday much to the dismay of Liberals.
  37. Hi there from Canada writes: J C Kellan
    Stephane Dion is no Paul Martin!

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

    Stephen Harper is no Paul Martin!!
  38. Cars, Watches, Shoes...Women. In that order. from Vancouver, Canada writes: 'Johnny Test from Pork Belly, Canada writes: The Conservatives will still win on Tuesday much to the dismay of Liberals.'
    You mean Harper. The Conservatives died 3 years ago.
  39. Super Farmer from Canada writes: G&M coming to the rescue of their Liberal masters. The coverage here is so skewed it's embarassing.
  40. 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, Canada writes: T O from Canada writes: 'If God forbid Dion wins a minority and tries to push through the green shift I fear for the future of our country...The west and NFLD would likely separate...

    People dont realize how serious this really is... '

    How on earth would Dion push his Green Shift through a MINORITY Parliament?
  41. WC Mitchell from writes: Assuming the Stephen Harper Party (otherwise known as the Conservatives) wins the most seats on Oct 14th, wouldn't it be nice if he wins less than in 2006.

    How long do you think it would take for the Conservative's knives to come out or would Harper just quit in a huff like he's done in the past?
  42. Stan L from Canada writes: Rick C from Calgary, Canada writes: Shove it Dion.

    Your entire platform is centered on cratering the economies of Alberta and the other Provinces with resource extraction industries.

    Rick C, your theory might hold up if Ontario and Quebec did not have big resource bases in their economic mix as well.....the fact is that the current PM is the one who has targetted provinces for 'favours' or 'fouls' with his speeches, with his 'gifts' and with his actions. The fact is in this economic crunch, resource based economies like Canada's are going to take a hit, without question and that is not by design of anyone sitting in government right now......the question is, who have the vision to lead us away from an arachaic reliance on a fossil fuel and natural resource based economic engine and move us in a new direction that takes advantage of our skills ?
  43. Jasper the Black Lab from Vancouver and Elsewhere, Canada writes: That's the problem in a nutshell, Derek: You 'tremble in fear' that something might uset the precious oil industry. News for you: Petroleum is a sought-after global resource, and big oil companies will pay to get access to it (Danny Williams played hardball, and industry playes cut him a nice equity deal). The fundamental problem in Alberta politics is that the ecomomy and society are rich, but people and governments kowtow to the industry as if they were utterly poor. There is a great impoverishment of thinking in certain parts of this country.
  44. rick from river city from Canada writes: Cars, Watches, Shoes...Women. In that order. from Vancouver, Canada writes: 'Johnny Test from Pork Belly, Canada writes: The Conservatives will still win on Tuesday much to the dismay of Liberals.'
    You mean Harper. The Conservatives died 3 years ago.

    Conservatives are alive and well. They are the Tories. Welcome to the new millenium CWSW,
  45. Cadillac Rancher from VOTE STRATEGICALLY to Keep Cons OUT - www.voteforenvironment.ca, writes: rick from river city from Canada writes: Said Mr. Dion on Wednesday: “Canadians, we worry about our savings, our jobs. For many of us it is more than worry. It is the hurt, the harm.&8221;

    Yes, I would suspect the bumbling inept Dion is very worried about his debts and his job. Fortunately he is one Canadian Harper does not have to feel empathy for.

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

    If you are right about Dion, I'll bet you he's not alone among Canadians.

    Meanwhile, no-one should count on any 'empathy' from Harper.
    Just like sound policy and good government, Harper doesn't 'do' empathy.
  46. Cars, Watches, Shoes...Women. In that order. from Vancouver, 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, Canada writes: T O from Canada writes: 'If God forbid Dion wins a minority and tries to push through the green shift I fear for the future of our country...The west and NFLD would likely separate...

    People dont realize how serious this really is... '

    How on earth would Dion push his Green Shift through a MINORITY Parliament?'

    The Green Shift is on ice until 2010... The Libs aren't fools. They'll implement once the country emerges from the upcoming challenges. We're not a hunt and gather society. We DO need to transform our economy. Dead dino goo isn't the answer for the next 50 years. We have brains. Let's use them.
  47. Hero Hero from Edmonton, Canada writes: Quick, make Dion as PM of Canada.

    Then all problems will be solved.

    Can't wait for that Carbon Tax!

    [hears sound of a nail in the coffin]
  48. Kenneth Yurchuk from Toronto, Canada writes: Radwanski pointed out in an earlier column, that the room would have been half empty if the Liberals hadn't have packed it with their partisan supporters. This might account for the warmth of the welcome Dion et al got.
  49. Cadillac Rancher from VOTE STRATEGICALLY to Keep Cons OUT - www.voteforenvironment.ca, writes: JC Kelan from Amherst, Canada writes: .... Dion continues to stick to his Green Shift Carbon Tax. This will be devastating for the Canadian economy. Businesses that are already hurting will be forced under.

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

    Not based on what I have read. Can you explain why you think that might happen?
  50. D G from Canada writes: To all you cons braying about how Dion and Layton are using the economic uncertainty for political gain - ask yourself this you geniuses:

    Who gave them the opportunity by selfishly calling a 300 million dollar election campaign because he thought the timing was right (screwing his own election law) to serve his pathological need for power?

    And if economist Harper was so clever in having foreseen the coming storm - WHY DID HE FOIST A 300 MILLION DOLLAR BILL ON US TAXPAYERS WHEN WE COULD LEAST AFFORD IT?
  51. Stan L from Canada writes: Rick C from Calgary, Canada writes:
    The wedge Dion will drive through the middle of Canada will be permanent.

    Rick C, you are from Calgary....listen to yourself all frothing at the mouth I would argue the wedge is already here and it was brought to you by the dear leader Harper who allowed you to think that a vote for him meant you get to trash the rest of Canada......fortunately people are waking up and moving in the right direction.....towards a grown-up of some sort whether that is Dion, Layton or May.
  52. Lars Weldrake from Canada writes: Full on American style negative attack from Stephane! You go girl! Prime Minister Dion...wow..I think I'd enjoy that for about 2 weeks before i started having serious buyer's remorse.
  53. Megan J from Canada writes: Oh yes! And Dion is the 'leader' who will make things all 'better.' chuckles
  54. Rebel Prince from Berlin, Germany writes: The CPC is the party of 'distortion and dishonesty'. I would add 'division' to that phrase.

    Mr. Always-underestimated-come-from-behind Dion is doing it again.

    With passion, dignity and the right ideas.

    NO! Harper and his neo-conservative friends will not succeed in Canada.

    Never!

    They are faltering and they will fail because, overall, Canadians are just too wise and reasonable to be taken in by their smoke and mirrors.

    Less culture? More guns? More prisons? Deeper integration with the USA? More CO2 emissions? A plagiarized foreign policy?

    Yeah, right, Mr. Harper.
  55. Rosebud in BC from Vancouver, Canada writes: As usual the Liberal are out in force trying to make Dion look good. He is running around the country crying 'there's going to be a recession, there's going to be a recession, I will call a meeting in 30 days to deal with it'. Harper has been working on it since last August when the trouble in the States started. OUR BANKS ARE OKAY!!!! Even Jean Chretien says the banks are okay. This is NOT the United States. The front page of The Province, a Vancouver paper, reads 'HELP WANTED' BC needs 210,000 workers over the next 8 years. Does that sound like the country is in trouble? Get a grip people! Vote for Harper and we'll all be okay, vote for Dion or worse yet, 'there's going to be a depression' Jack Layton, and it will be a self fulfilling promise.
  56. Midtown Bob from Toronto, Canada writes: Derek Holtom from Swan River: Derek Holtom is not your real name because I did a Canada411 on you and noone by your name exists in Swan River. Cowards indeed BUT I digress.

    I live in Eglinton-Lawrence (Average family income is the third-highest in Canada) , the cpc candidate says nothing, candidates website says nothing, election brochure (is a Harper brochure with the candidates name pasted at the bottom of the back page) also says nothing.

    Conclusion, is the cpc candidate in Eglinton-Lawrence a mannequin in a blue suit?
  57. rick from river city from Canada writes: Cadillac Rancher from VOTE STRATEGICALLY to Keep Cons OUT -

    Please explain how the Green Shift will work if Dion does not achieve the 4% growth necessary to fund it? There is a reason why he is not talking about it much these days - because it would simply not work.
  58. Edward Mulcare from Canada writes: The one thing I like about Dion is that I believe him to be an honest guy looking out for Canadians. He will make mistakes, they all do, but he won't make the government the enemy of the people like the cons have done.

    Also I'm hoping this election completely divides this country east and west. Then I hope to see a movement afoot to separate the west from the rest. Take your oil and right wing whining and form your own country. Slam the door on the way out if you like. You won't be missed.
  59. R L from Canada writes: The Green Shift works. It has been done in many other countries, all with great success. In the long-term, these countries are more prepared for the 21st century, and have reduced their dependency on oil.
  60. Some Thoughts from Canada writes: So conducting a massive experiment with the Canadian economy (greenshift taxes) makes sense? Naw,....I'll stick with the economist, Harper not the 'popinjay professor'.
  61. Harper can't be trusted from Canada writes: Just think about this fact:

    If you give Harper a majority, he could easily use the current financial crisis to justify taxing your RRSP's and NO ONE COULD STOP HIM!

    Would he do that to you and risk your retirement savings?

    Ask the millions of Income Trust Investors Harper screwed with Harpers Income Trust Betrayal!

    Trust a LEADER not a liar
  62. T O from Canada writes: Catherine Wilkie

    I find it HILARIOUS you keep trumpeting Harper as the friends of big oil and corporations when your lovely Liberals are the ones that RELY on large donations from corporations to survive. The Conservatives get their financing from grass roots/individuals the Liberals from big corporations.

    That's why Martin and Dion were fubar'd after Cretin changed the rules to try and cement his legacy and the Liberal party nearly bankrupt...

    Looking forward to your response...
  63. rick from river city from Canada writes: Cadillac Rancher from VOTE STRATEGICALLY to Keep Cons OUT - www.voteforenvironment.ca, writes: Meanwhile, no-one should count on any 'empathy' from Harper. Just like sound policy and good government, Harper doesn't 'do' empathy.

    And Dion does not 'do' economics. Which does Canada need more - someone to feel sorry for them or someone to lead.
  64. Fungal Fred from Canada writes: 'The Liberal leader was joined at the head table by two former Liberal finance ministers - Paul Martin and Ralph Goodale.'

    EXACTLY the correct move. Well done.

    Who was Stephen Harper sitting with yesterday? Alone of course, but if they'd needed more, they'd have needed two Stephen Harper cutouts.

    Or maybe he could have brought his mother along. Y'know, the one who is sitting in 24 Sussex thinking about her stocks ... the closest Harper wants to come to knowing how the ordinary Canadian feels in this crisis.
  65. s like from Canada writes: I think Dion and Layton are out of touch.

    I just got a newsletter from economist Nouriel Roubini. Canada's economy is expected to do best of all the G8. We won't be doing great but we won't be tanking like the rest. Another newsletter from Stratfor shows Canada as being ranked with that group of countries best able to deal with the meltdown financially.

    Layton and Dion want to make the economy out to be in serious trouble to bolster their own campaign and frankly it's BS.

    Will we be affected. Of course we will but were in the best shape of any G8 country.

    If either of them get their hands on the federal treasury then we will be in trouble because their prescription for everything is to spend money, regardless of whether it's money well spent just to make themselves look good.
  66. Lyin Brian from Canada writes:
    Stevie still measuring the economy by the status of Mom's stock acumen.
  67. Michael Sharp from Victoria, Canada writes:

    25% Dion tells it like it is.

    Reach for the stars, Stephane.
  68. steven cooke from Toronto, Canada writes: I have to admit, Dion's comment is quite clever. Harper may be repeating the previous mistake of the Liberals: painting their opponent as either so scary or incompetent that the person starts looking better and better by comparison.

    Despite those admittedly effective fireside chat commercials earlier that made Harper look Prime Ministerial he is showing himself to be petty, uncaring and bereft of ideas. It's good to appear calm and reassuring but if you see an iceberg on the horizon, exclaiming that the fundamentals of the ship are fine and not making a course correction is a wrong-headed strategy. The ship that is Canada a captain who is flexible, looks ahead and gives the sense that he/she cares about all its inhabitants, not just the ones in first class.
  69. gilles monenemie from Montreal, Canada writes: If his beloved oilsands industry was in trouble harper would be concerned. I think he genuinely would like to see the east decline and the west rise and is tinkering economic policies to do so. Harper is destroying national unity. This vote is going to end up ABC in the east and tory in the west. Harper's politics of division at work. He is no nation builder, his interests lie with coddling the oil and gas industry.
  70. rick from river city from Canada writes: R L from Canada writes: The Green Shift works. It has been done in many other countries, all with great success. In the long-term, these countries are more prepared for the 21st century, and have reduced their dependency on oil.

    It 'worked' by pushing taxes up and having no effect whatsoever on the environment. Take a look at those countries today, or better yet, just talk to someone from BC.
  71. Lars Weldrake from Canada writes: Brilliant analysis Edward Mulcare..brilliant! we don't need their stinking taxes! Ontario's unemployed auto workers and freelance sculptors will finally create the equitable society we've all been dreaming of!
  72. Smart Alec from Calgary, Canada writes: I’ve been listening to the rhetoric since before the campaign. Sadly, it has become a campaign of “Don’t vote for that guy – he’s bad. Vote for me instead – I’m good”. While this is common, the way it is being done (rudely, on all sides) used to be un-Canadian. In this case, a number of posters are mistaken. I’ve read that seniors don’t have stock portfolio’s but have RRSP’s. RRSP’s can be in stocks, or bonds or in bank deposits, etc. If Seniors didn’t have cash in the stock market, they why the fuss about income trust taxation last year? About the environment: all for helping out, but as long as it is done wisely. Carbon is a major sticking piece, but what about the rest of our throw-away economy. How come I can’t get a pair of shoes re-soled (leather uppers are fine, but the original sole doesn’t allow for a resole)? Also, what is the total environmental impact of these electric cars (to make & replace batteries), wind farms (to manufacture, install and maintain), etc. Do you implement a shift during an economic downturn? Watch Peter Mansbridge’s interviews with each leader. If you sit with an open mind, they are quite informative without all the bickering.
  73. Mike........ Just Mike from toronto, Canada writes: the very vocal minority of westerners that post here are the biggest losers going. I don't mean that in general of westerners as the large majority are good people, good CANADIANS. All the losers whom keep saying if Canadians exercise their democratic rights and let's just say Dion did win well that they would seperate are the biggest losers. You are like children. Taking your ball and going home..Which happens to be Canada. You people aren't going anywhere and you shame our country with your mindless blather. Who are you to threaten Canada with seperation if people don't vote 'Your way' pathetic.
  74. thomson gary from Canada writes: I really liked this article because it basically reported what the leader said, how the crowd reacted and supplied information needed to put statements into proper context. There needs to be way more election coverage like this and way less commentary/handicapping. Good job Ms Taber!
  75. Johnny Test from Pork Belly, Canada writes: Will Canadians vote for a carbon tax and corporate tax increases on Tuesday - both job killlers? I don't think so. Harper is back in my friends.
  76. rick from river city from Canada writes: Edward Mulcare from Canada writes: Also I'm hoping this election completely divides this country east and west.

    spoken like a true Dion Liberal. Screw the West - We'll take the Rest. Some things never change.
  77. Mike Z from Saskatoon, Canada writes: This is pathetic. Who do you want at the helm during a storm - someone who will hold your hand a cry like a baby with you, or someone who knows what he is doing and will do the most anyone can to get you through the storm in one piece?

    Dion will hold your hand and cry with you. His plan will make you cry even more once it craters the working portions of the Canadian economy in the name of vote-buying.

    Harper won't hold your hand for you. He'll be too busy keeping you alive while he keeps our economy as healthy as it can be during these volatile times.

    As for me and my household, we support Harper. I'll take competent over pretend-caring any day.
  78. D G from Canada writes: Edward Mulcare - unfortunately I am reaching the point that if there was a referendum on splitting canada down the ontario/manitoba border I'd be inclined to vote yes. Because Canada Right and Canada Left are like oil and water and I don't see it getting any better anytime soon.
  79. Stan L from Canada writes: Midtown Bob from Toronto, Canada writes: ......I live in Eglinton-Lawrence (Average family income is the third-highest in Canada) , the cpc candidate says nothing, candidates website says nothing, election brochure (is a Harper brochure with the candidates name pasted at the bottom of the back page) also says nothing.
    Conclusion, is the cpc candidate in Eglinton-Lawrence a mannequin in a blue suit?

    I live in St. Paul's....same thing a mannequin in a blue suit and they have the nerve to lament the lack of seats in the GTA? The fact is that the only communication I received from this gal was a pamphlet telling me (with all the usual spin) why not to vote for Dion.....nothing about who she was, why she's qualified etc......
  80. West Virginian Albino Mexican from Canada writes: Catherine Wilkie from Canada writes:

    A friend of big oil and corporations.

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

    So it's just our imagination then that the LPC subsidised the oil sands to the tune of a billion plus a year and Dion is slamming Layton for wanting to reverse 50B in corporate tax cuts?

    Twit!
  81. Thomas D'Arcy McGee from Canada writes:
    Rick C from Calgary, Canada writes: Shove it Dion.

    Your entire platform is centered on cratering the economies of Alberta and the other Provinces with resource extraction industries.
    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Don't worry Rick, your economy is going to crater shortly whomever is elected.

    With the price of oil in freefall, it's getting close to the break-even point for tar sands oil.

    You know what it will mean it if the price drops below, say $70 Rick?

    Back to punching cattle shoveling manure Rick.

    Alberta's one-horse economy is vulnerable to oil price reduction like none other.

    Come east Rick. There's always fast food work.
  82. Cars, Watches, Shoes...Women. In that order. from Vancouver, Canada writes: ' rick from river city from Canada writes: R L from Canada writes: The Green Shift works. It has been done in many other countries, all with great success. In the long-term, these countries are more prepared for the 21st century, and have reduced their dependency on oil.

    It 'worked' by pushing taxes up and having no effect whatsoever on the environment. Take a look at those countries today, or better yet, just talk to someone from BC.'

    'gilles monenemie from Montreal, Canada writes: If his beloved oilsands industry was in trouble harper would be concerned. I think he genuinely would like to see the east decline and the west rise and is tinkering economic policies to do so. Harper is destroying national unity. This vote is going to end up ABC in the east and tory in the west. Harper's politics of division at work. He is no nation builder, his interests lie with coddling the oil and gas industry.'

    Ahhhhh! People with brains do exist. I thought I was the only one left (get it? i said left. ha! I kill me!).

    Neo-cons prepare to erupt......... NOW! Blast away! NO TAXES! NO GAY MARRIAGE! CAPITAL PUNISHMENT! Yeah!!!!!! Fools. Wake up. You're not on an island.
  83. rick from river city from Canada writes: gilles monenemie from Montreal, Canada writes: Harper is destroying national unity. This vote is going to end up ABC in the east and tory in the west.

    .. and this is different than a decade and a half of Liberal rule how? Oh yea, who is forming the government... that is your real beef gilles so save the 'save the nation' stuff.
  84. Ed Long from Canada writes: F E from Ottawa writes, 'A minority government is badly needed to ride out this storm, ...'

    You're being ironic, right?

    You do know how global financial markets react to uncertainty?

    And you have seen the Loonie at .8912 USD, right?

    Please don't tell me you are one of those Canadians who believe valid industrial policy is a low loonie to provide cheap labour for assembling other people's products.
  85. Stan L from Canada writes: Mike Z from Saskatoon, Canada writes: This is pathetic. Who do you want at the helm during a storm - someone who will hold your hand a cry like a baby with you, or someone who knows what he is doing and will do the most anyone can to get you through the storm in one piece?

    It would be nice to have both, an empathetic person who is knowledgeable.........since Harper is neither I'll take Dion any day.
  86. Shawn Bull from Canada writes: It comes down to the Conservatives plan of controlled intervention, smart spending and modest tax relief. The Liberals plan is the green shift and a change in Canada's tax system.

    During such global economic fragility I do not want to take the risk of a new tax system or increased costs on energy costs.
  87. John Gzowski from Canada writes: Rick C - having a busy day I see. Lots of holes in the ship to try to repair. I'm sure you're ranting is going to convince a lot these readers that that Harper and his supporters are the nice, easy going, sweater wearing types that can lead us to salvation. Funny how its turning from 'Dion is not a leader' to 'vote Harper or we'll pout and leave'. Really inspires confidence that conservatives care about Canada.
  88. JP M from Canada writes: Unsure Voter from Guelph, Canada writes the new Conservative election slogan...

    'I know Harper isn't a very good choice, but then again, who is?'

    ... that's the best the Conservatives have left after squandering two years trying to gain a majority instead of looking out for the interests of the country.

    ... and to those bemoaning attack ads, if you're going to dish it, be ready when it comes back at you. At least the ads (from all other parties) attacking Harper are true. More than can be said for 2 years of electioneering with personal attack ads on Dion. As Dion so rightly said, he can at least claim to tell THE TRUTH better than Harper in both languages...
  89. Cars, Watches, Shoes...Women. In that order. from Vancouver, Canada writes: 'Ed Long from Canada writes: F E from Ottawa writes, 'A minority government is badly needed to ride out this storm, ...'

    You're being ironic, right?

    You do know how global financial markets react to uncertainty?

    And you have seen the Loonie at .8912 USD, right?'

    Actually most economists prefer a $.75 dollar for our economy. A high loonie is not good for a resource (currently) exporter. However, when I go to Vegas for lap dances the high dollar is good too.... Mmmmm. Something to ponder.
  90. Rick C from Calgary, Canada writes: Stan L from Canada writes:

    'Rick C, you are from Calgary....listen to yourself all frothing at the mouth I would argue the wedge is already here and it was brought to you by the dear leader Harper who allowed you to think that a vote for him meant you get to trash the rest of Canada.....'

    Sorry Stan but the Liberals wedged this country apart a long time ago.

    Harper has nothing to do with it.

    Dion's plans will simply make the split in Canada permanent. Words truly don't do justice to how terrible Dion is.

    If you like Dion then by all means vote for him; but if Dion becomes PM this country is toast.

    The regional divisions created by the Liberals in the early '80s will be permanent and unrepairable after Dion's Green Shaft is done ruining the economies in BC, AB and Sask.
  91. cons suck don't want to have to say i told you so from london, Canada writes: Rick C: It is the NDP that wants to punish corporations, not the liberals. The liberals are the only party not driven solely by ideology, they are the only ones that have a balanced approach. Dion is merely going to punish polluters not corporations in general and how can anybody fundamentally object to that. All it will take, and it's happening now, is a drop in all price to halt the alberta economy and when that happens and there are tough times there, that's when people out there will realize that you need a balanced approach, not just a government that can govern during times of economic strength. Albertans were so against the NEP, why? Because they did not want to share with the rest of Canada. What makes Canada better than the United States is the fact that we are willing to share with our neighbours, that we realize that we are in this thing together. You shouldn't be talking war. 2/3 of the population is east of manitoba
  92. Ted Duncan from Canada writes: Ed Long from Canada writes:

    Please don't tell me you are one of those Canadians who believe valid industrial policy is a low loonie to provide cheap labour for assembling other people's products.

    No...of course not. I prefer a high dollar that drives out our manufacturing sector and consigns a small irrelevant country like Canada to the role of being a provider of natural resources for other developed and industrialized nations.
  93. Art Vandelai from Burlington, Canada writes: Too bad the Cons wasted so much money trying to sell Canadians on Stephane Dion not being a leader.

    The strategy has completely backfired as Canadians are realizing just what they want from their leaders, and it's not the autocratic, out of touch style we see from the man in the blue sweater.
  94. Ed Long from Canada writes: Edward Mulcare .... good idea.

    Let's see, B.C., Alberta and Sask. to become have provinces.

    Quebec, always the recipient of untold pork, and Ontario about to become a have not province. Maritimes are have and have not.

    Soooo ... tax yourselves into oblivion. We will gladly leave and avoid your tax and spend social engineering.
  95. Michael Sharp from Victoria, Canada writes:

    It's such a disconnect.

    In today's Vancouver Province:

    '(BC needs) about 210,000 workers.
    'Generally speaking