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It's becoming pretty clear that the overall state of the world economy and the difficult circumstances we are seeing at home are impacting the Liberal leadership race. Word this morning from this very media company is that Martin Cauchon, the former justice minister, will not run for leader. While Cauchon has (at least to my knowledge) yet to say money was an issue, it's hard to imagine it wasn't at some level. People don't have lots of extra cash to throw around, and even supporting a capable fellow like Cauchon is a harder investment to make in this climate.

I am also noticing that the Liberals who are campaigning for the crown now are doing it in a fairly low-key manner. That is likely part strategy and part reality.

No one wants to be seen as too flashy and glitzy when Canadians at home are worried about their investments and jobs. Also, at the front-end of the campaign you don't want to waste too much cash which you may need at the end of the race to get people to Vancouver to support you. Finally, people are keeping a tight lock on their wallets so getting money has got to be tough.

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