Our most recent national poll indicates support for the federal Liberals continues to incrementally trend upwards.
Considering the economy is in the midst of a significant downturn, the Conservatives have generally done well in maintaining their overall support. While they continue to trail the Liberals it’s not realistic for an incumbent government to expect their polling numbers to improve in this economy. The reality is that the Conservatives are still strong in the West and are generally competitive in Ontario. The greatest erosion of Conservative support has occurred in the province of Quebec.
Although the numbers in Quebec for the Conservatives are currently low, one should be cautious because voter volatility in Quebec has historically been much higher than in other parts of the country. A look at Ontario indicates that the Liberals currently have an eight point lead. We know from our research that Ontarians tend to be more concerned about the economy compared to other Canadians and the widening margin could be indicative of increased grumpiness among voters in Ontario.
Support for the NDP is incrementally improving but still below average compared to the high-teens. Support for the NDP in Ontario is another critical factor which could influence potential vote splits. The Conservatives have an interest in a more competitive NDP, especially in Ontario where vote splits would favour the Liberals. Hypothetically, an economic downturn should be a time when the NDP should be able to reassert itself and demonstrate more relevance but Jack Layton and the NDP have not realized that potential at this time.
The Nanos polling suggests that EI is not an “election worthy” issue to trigger an election. Generally, Canadians are very pragmatic and are more interested in solutions than political posturing by the federal party leaders. In a minority situation, there is an expectation that none of the parties will get everything they demand in regards to EI reform. The questions will be whether the opposition judge the changes enough or whether it the issue is a show stopper. Also, based on past experience, the default position for most voters is not to have an appetite for an election but that this subsides once the election begins. It’s not surprising that Canadians likely want to see stability and solutions at this point in time.
Methodology
Polling between May 26 and June 1, 2009. (Random Telephone Survey of 1,001 Canadians, 18 years of age and older). A survey of 1,001 Canadians is accurate to within 3.1 percentage points, plus or minus, 19 times out of 20.
Ballot Question: For those parties you would consider voting for federally, could you please rank your top two current local preferences? (Committed Voters Only - First Choice)
The numbers in parenthesis denote the change from the last Nanos Omnibus Survey completed in April 2009.
Committed Voters - Canada (N=879, MoE ± 3.3%, 19 times out of 20)
- Liberal Party 37% (+1)
- Conservative Party 32% (-1)
- NDP 16% (+1)
- BQ 8% (-1)
- Green Party 7% (NC)
(Note: Undecided 12%)
EI as an Election Trigger Question: As you may know, there have been discussions and proposals related to Employment Insurance. Is disagreement about how Employment Insurance could be changed important enough or not important enough to trigger a federal election?
- Not important enough 60%
- Important enough 31%
- Unsure 10%
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Uneven numbers like this will soon lead to an election. Why wait for more Steph... more
supper (British Columbia) 06 Jun 18:48
To quote Yogi Berra " one thing I can't predict is the future". :-) It appears ... more
Bernie (Ontario) 07 Jun 07:52
Nik, If Canadians are seeking "stability and solutions", it logically flows fro... more
RonaldODowd (Ontario) 06 Jun 22:06
psi. What have you been smoking. Do you really believe Steve in his desire for p... more
larryl (Ontario) 08 Jun 14:32
Why stop there, maybe there will never be another election because Harper will b... more
Jack (Ontario) 08 Jun 14:35
I voted for the Liberals for a very long time and assisted from councillor to Pr... more
Informed1 (suspended) (Ontario) 08 Jun 11:19
Comments
supper
Uneven numbers like this will soon lead to an election. Why wait for more Stephen Ugly ads?
[updated Sat Jun 06 18:48:19 -0400 2009]
06 Jun 18:48
No replies yet. Join this conversationHide this conversation.
RonaldODowd
Nik,
If Canadians are seeking "stability and solutions", it logically flows from that assertion that that means long-term political stability to address our economic challenges. Translation: the necessity of a government with a political mandate for a solid five years.
That also means either the Liberals or Conservatives have to move their numbers. In Harper's case, he gets to wear both his record and his personal leadership style. In my view, that precludes any possibility of his party forming a majority government.
Turning to the Liberals -- so goeth Ontario, so goeth the nation. That party has to build on the personal goodwill afforded to Michael Ignatieff. The platform is coming. It will be instrumental in how the party is perceived by the voters. Slow, steady as she goes Liberalism will bear more fruit than either a tilt toward the right or left of center.
In my view, Michael has to run a campaign at least as solid as Harper's in 2006. The Liberals have to stay on message each day and must do everything they can to generate the perception, and later the reality, of the inevitability of a future Liberal government. If this can be done, they will be well on their way to bumping up their numbers thus giving them a shot at a majority win.
[updated Sat Jun 06 22:06:10 -0400 2009]
06 Jun 22:06
3 replies so far. Join this conversationHide this conversation.
Ronald
I have said without Ontario repeating the 99/100 (Right was not united) and the Bloc imploding any talk of any Majority by Federal Party is purely a Disney PSA.
We are going to have minority gov't in the forseeable future unless a significant scandal can move the voters to abandon their "traditional" base for the next "official poll".
I expect many of us don't switch parties because of ONE issue or Spin from other parties, we need a great deal of BS. (To change,switch,stay home again.)
The Right of Centre are united and are fighting for the "radical centre" vs the Liberals who were "left of centre" trying to reclaim their "centrist position".
Why do you think Harper has been passing Bills that are viewed by right wing zealots as Socialist and Liberal Policies?
What does this leave the Liberal Party to criticize?
Liberal Policies enacted during Chretien/Martin?
EI reform, what else have they championed and will rally Canadians behind in a bid to regain power?
Major Issues during campaign?
What are the differences between the Liberals and Tories?
1)Environment = 13 years of nothing
2) EI Reform = Liberals engineerd theft of $ 53 Billion and changed rules to make it difficult to collect EI when unemployment was higher.
3) Deficit= Liberals voted and demanded Billions for their support.
4) Stimulus EAP = Liberal voted for and tried to hold up slush fund as well.
5) Transfers to provinces for Healthcare, Education went down during Liberals those "regressive" Tories have restored funding to those areas.
Where are the Liberals going to Spend the Socialist CPC have not?
Those Arts Funding Cut? We both know the opposition is not being honest about the increase in the budget.
Iggy is going to spend more in ARTS , what else?
[updated Sun Jun 07 10:06:29 -0400 2009]
07 Jun 10:06
syld (suspended for inappropriate remarks)
Uninformed 1......as usual you forget the realities here. its going to be about harper's ugly politics and the liberals steady as she goes approach. You can quote all the so called stats you can dream up but the fact remains that Harpercrites votes are vaporizing in bth Ontario and Quebec. If the Libs win over 120 seats in Ontario and Quebec, a decent possibility, then a majority can be a real possibility.
[updated Sun Jun 07 18:07:56 -0400 2009]
07 Jun 18:07
I always get a chuckle from partisans who want to re-write HISTORY , fail to understand MATH and finally LACK a basis in Canadian sensibilities.
As a recent convert to the CPC vs life long liberal, I can admit to the GOOD, the BAD, and the UGLY.
A blind partisan simply can not. A zealot or ideague believe their party has a "natural right to govern" and people are wrong or are fooled when they lose power or are thrown out.
The Historical Facts are correct and verifiable. The Math is Public and can not be disputed.
The Reality for some Right and Left Zealots is they simply can't accept they are not ENTITLED to perpetual power.
When critics have NOTHING of SUBSTANCE to offer but simply attack ads, painting their opposition in negative fashion as the Liberals have done effectively well is the modus operandi.
"Chrétien boasts about giving the Liberals three back-to-back majorities. Mathematics says he is right, but history might be less generous. He accomplished his records rushing Canadians to the polls with the only goal of destroying the opposition. Conservative leaders were painted as “unCanadian”, nasty, insensitive, and anti-Québec".-Angelo Perscilli Monday Dec. 8, 2008 CORRIERE CANADESE
Disputing those EXACT same Political advantages and conditions being exploited by the current PM is simply hypocritical and not honest.
Pretending the Liberals are concerned about the welfare of Canadians regarding EI is simply delusional.
Denying how the Liberals changed, dismantled EI to reduce eligibility/payouts in the 1990's, use the $ 53 Billion surplus illegaly from the EI program to balance the books is simply revisionist history by zealots who can't be honest about their party.
The Supreme Court Ruling was VERY clear: The Liberal Cabinet did not have the right to TAX us with passing a vote in the HOC. The defense by liberal apologists we had a majority and could have passed the "Bill" so big deal! This was only a technicality...proving to sensible Canadians about the entitlement of Rule of Law, corruption of power and greed by the Liberals.
Pretending the Liberals did ANYTHING besides run CBC commercials regarding the Environment File is also hypocritical.
National Daycare/Kelowna Accord. So many "Liberal Ideals/Promises" never implemented after 13 years are FACTS.
I have never read a post that shows me the Liberal Legacy after 13 years in power, what did they accomplish?
You would thin during the LAST 2 Campaigns the Liberals Legacy under Chretien/Martin
Still waiting. Here is a source you might recognize.
"Although Jean Chrétien will clearly go down in the history books as one of the most successful politicians and Prime Ministers in Canadian history, a majority of Canadians cannot cite an accomplishment from his ten years as Prime Minister.
Saying “no” to the American-led war in Iraq and eliminating the deficit were the most popular identified accomplishments by Canadians."
http://www.nanosresearch.com/library/polls/POLNAT-F03-T123.pdf
We know he stole from EI and lied about balancing the books so what is left?
He cut $ 25 Billion in transfers to provinces for Education, Healthcare is that the Liberal legacy?
[updated Mon Jun 08 06:53:52 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 06:53
Bernie
To quote Yogi Berra " one thing I can't predict is the future". :-)
It appears to me that the Liberals have enough support east of Manitoba to win an election. All that's left for them is to grow a little more in the West. That appears entirely possible in BC and Manitoba. At this point the NDP should have been able to raise their profile but it seems like Layton is inept in selling his policies.
I don't see any way for Harper to win a majority (thank God) so the sooner we get rid of him and his bad government the better. I don't understand why Canadians would tolerate this regressive government for any length of time. The sooner we have an election the better. Money isn't everything. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "Money often costs too much."
One issue may not create the need for an election, but a continuous list of bad policy surely does. We will never get stability nor appropriate solutions to our problems with Harper at the helm.
[updated Sun Jun 07 07:52:11 -0400 2009]
07 Jun 07:52
27 replies so far. Join this conversationHide this conversation.
What specific Bill in the past 3 years is a reflection of "bad policy" or "regressive government".
The FACT is that this Minority government REQUIRED 1 Party to SUPPORT those actions you classify as damaging to our Canada.
The Bloc, NDP and Liberals have all AGREED and supportd Harper in specific Bills so are you also suggesting each of these parties are also RESPONSIBLE or just believe the "Dictator" was able to confuse those parties to pass his "regressive" and "bad" policies?
Thanks for clearing that up.
[updated Sun Jun 07 09:07:40 -0400 2009]
07 Jun 09:07
larryl
I have to break my promise to just ignore your verbal garbage. Why does it have to be one specific bill. The whole manner of governing and failures of the C.R.A.P.are enough for most of us. The promise of more open and transparent government by Steve the reformer is the most recent and best example of saying one thing and doing the opposite. Why did they have secret committee meetings and pass unanimously an obvious breach of conflict of interest rules in the commons. It was all parties as I am sure you will point out but who ran part of their campaign on changing the way things are done and promised to more transparency Only the Reform/Alliance wing of the party preach change but it is still the same old same old.You are stuck in the past with your hatred of everything Liberal and can't see it makes no difference who is in power. You complain about Chretien doing nothing for 13 years and even talk about Turner 21 years ago. Try getting your head out of the sand and check out what they are doing now.If the government does absolutely nothing that might be more consistent with wanting less involvement which I think is a Conservative ideology isn't it?
[updated Sun Jun 07 14:25:20 -0400 2009]
07 Jun 14:25
So can't explain or defend that Liberal WE BOTH voted for lied and did nothing for 13 years on the Environment File?
Can't defend or explain the Liberals back-stabbed their own leader and created disposable Liberal leaders?
Really a sad reflection as a former Liberal I can remember when and why WE won. I don't need to rewrite history or pretend my former party actually kept their word in regards to those SPECIFIC issues I posted.
You can like any party apologist call our PM names tell us about the "hidden agenda". That what happens when ideas, truth, policies are non-existent from Iggy.
The facts are clear to those former life long liberal VOTERS who were simply fed up the BS and did not support them and we are giving Harper the keys to our House.
Both federal parties are invited by us to deliver and will be asked to leave when they fail.
The Liberals can't accept the fact they don't own the Federal Government. They have done nothing to rebuild, and now have a George Bush cheerleader who was unelected by the grassroots for a second time leading them into the next election without a platform, and criticizing the CRAP by PASSING every single Bill without "conditions".
You are right to support a failed party without grassroots support. It has been a VERY long time for liberals to act in the best interest of Canada.
Politicial Party Subsidy in the Economic Update was the catalyst and nothing else.
Be proud of those 77 MP who agreed with the Bloc and NDP to steal power!
Iggy is ashamed and TODAY has publicly refuted the Coaliton and the ACCORD.
[updated Sun Jun 07 16:21:25 -0400 2009]
07 Jun 16:21
syld (suspended for inappropriate remarks)
As usual you are full of CRAP. The liberals under Iggy have begun a thorough rebuilding of the party at a grassroots level with new software,policy commities and new fundraising methods.
you haven't a clue when you talk about stuff your biased and twisted mind doesn't understand or comprehend.
[updated Sun Jun 07 18:12:58 -0400 2009]
07 Jun 18:12
The Liberals had the grassroots vote for their leader? No, he was appointed by the Boys from Baystreet.
Software purchased from Americans to help collect more money. (That is a point you are bragging about?)
The "stuff" I raise is called Public information, and verifiable. The SPIN you post is smply Liberal talking points from Warren Kinsella war room.
Again the Public Information regarding the Liberal Party will be in the hands of Election Canada soon enough and you can along with Warren try to repackage it and pretend the Fairytales are true.
National TV ads cost REAL money. The Liberal promised to respond but still can't afford to reply to the BLOC and the CPC except for posting a Youtube Video and sending EMAIL spam begging for donations on a weekly basis.
Do you have ANY Public Proof to back you claims? The Grassroots, donations have returned or is it true the lawyers, ad agency executive have made maximum donations? Number of donors vs MAX donations.
Those prominent Liberals from 2006 Pay their debts, not according to Elections Canada?
?
Here are 2 LIBERALS who can blame the CPC and Liberals equally.
http://enmasse.ca/?p=125
http://puzzledcat.blogspot.com/2009/03/ignatieff-comes-to-heel.html
It time to take the "blinders off" and realize both parties are guilty or using their political advantages to gain/hold power.
Any other conclusion is simply histioy revisionism by zealots.
[updated Mon Jun 08 07:14:00 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 07:14
larryl
Why would I try to defend the Liberals. Unlike you I have never been one and only voted for the socialist Trudeau. The Librals won because they were smarter than the opposition parties. Don't do anything to piss off the voters and you keep winning. Do really dumb things like run a $50 billion deficit and I can guarantee you will irate even some of your supporters.You keep talking about the Liberal coalition but the CPC did exactly the same thing but you seem to forgive that. Iggy supported his leader's decision at the time but is now the one deciding so get over it. Live today nmot in the past.
[updated Sun Jun 07 18:30:07 -0400 2009]
07 Jun 18:30
Jack
He can't live today. Its too painful. The polls aren't saying what he wants to believe and he can't face the fact that Harper is a failure and a sellout at the end of a very sad career.
[updated Sun Jun 07 18:43:04 -0400 2009]
07 Jun 18:43
larryl
Jack. When you consider Steve's qualifications and experience he has had a career beyond even his wildest dreams and expectations. To go from a speech writer for Deb Gray to P.M. in such a short time is quite an accomplishment. Unfortunately he could not match it while in government.He is second only to Mulroney as Canada's worst P.M.
[updated Sun Jun 07 18:57:38 -0400 2009]
07 Jun 18:57
Jack
@ what you said.
The choice of "The Thinker" as an avitar is an interesting one for Uninformed1. Rodin had a specific thing in mind when he crafted him. "The Thinker" is contemplating Hell. Very appropriate these days for Uninformed1.
[updated Sun Jun 07 19:30:30 -0400 2009]
07 Jun 19:30
atta boy Jack
When substance is not available to refute the Liberal revisionism of the 13 years like a good liberal you jump in and support them by name calling and changing the channel.
The Big Red Lie apparently is much better than the CPC socialist liberal passing liberal policies who is a failed Conservative! (Atta boy Jack!)
[updated Mon Jun 08 07:22:05 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 07:22
Jack
Liberals are not better than CPC. Anyone is better than Harper though.
Keep up repeating what your glorious leader has programmed you to say. It's obviously not working as Harper slides into oblivion.
New leader, new CPC.
[updated Mon Jun 08 09:41:02 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 09:41
atta boy Jack
Come to defend those 13 years under the Liberals or better ignore the FACT, 1 Political party at any given time has supported the CPC to keep them in power for over 1200 days.
atta boy Jack keep working on rewriting history and call for more right wing policies to call our PM a failure.
[updated Mon Jun 08 10:03:49 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 10:03
Jack
Keep up repeating what your glorious leader has programmed you to say. It's obviously not working as Harper slides into oblivion.
New leader, new CPC.
[updated Mon Jun 08 10:07:20 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 10:07
Ctrl "c" and Ctrl "v"
I am glad you are proficient in those two commands.
Great job, give my best to Warren, and Iggy.
[updated Mon Jun 08 10:13:03 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 10:13
Jack
Keep up repeating what your glorious leader has programmed you to say. It's obviously not working as Harper slides into oblivion.
New leader, new CPC.
[updated Mon Jun 08 10:13:50 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 10:13
You fail to simply understand I would have supported Martin against any "coalition" of 3 smaller parties. Get over it!
Have posted that position nearly a dozen times. It is called being consistent.
I am not voting for the Liberals because of one major mistake in December 08.
You really think it is just one mistake they have made? Really?
[updated Mon Jun 08 07:19:00 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 07:19
The Liberal who claims to not support the Liberals
larryl on begging for Liberal donations:
"Jack . Have you sent your campaign contribution to the L.P.C. yet."...
larryl on Liberal Dhalla and her exploitation and Censure by Committee of Bloc/NDP/Tory/Liberal MP's
"Ron .I hope you are right and she wins again. The parachute candidate the C.R.A.P.brought in is as crooked as the day is long and the Indian community knows it . I will do whatever I can to make sure he never gets elected . "
larryl on using inappropriate comments:
"Syl. Kenney could not resist the temptation of attacking a woman and an immigrant . Typical of the redneck racists of the Reform/Alliance party. If the truth comes out about who is responsible for personal attacks against Ms. Dhalla a few careers will come to an early end."
[updated Thu May 28 20:32:47 EDT 2009]
larry on the Liberal Party not providing any ideas to help Canadians but and providing support for their coalition with the NDP/Bloc
"The Grits are trying to rebuild and can't afford to run a proper campaign right now. And besides would you want to be in power during the worst recession /depression in 70 years .Let things get worse under the CPC and blame them for it. If throwing billions at the problem doesn't work and it won't, Harper will pay the price. I have said this from day one the Conservative party back room boys don't like Harper and he is loosing support in his own party . They will replace him as soon as possible with a more centrist leader."
[updated Sun Feb 01 13:26:20 EST 2009]
I could easily post 100 contradictions and inappropriate comments but the 2-3 users left on this site have a soft spot for a person with limited capactiy to understand or debate above a grade 6 pay grade.
[updated Mon Jun 08 08:12:17 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 08:12
Jack
Nice diversion from talking about Harper's dismal failure as CPC leader.
Keep up repeating what your glorious leader has programmed you to say. It's obviously not working as Harper slides into oblivion.
New leader, new CPC.
[updated Mon Jun 08 09:42:52 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 09:42
atta boy Jack
defending another non-liberal exposed for double-speaking.
It is great to see you both help each other out with those lucid and well balanced posts.
[updated Mon Jun 08 10:05:34 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 10:05
Jack
Keep up repeating what your glorious leader has programmed you to say. It's obviously not working as Harper slides into oblivion.
New leader, new CPC.
[updated Mon Jun 08 10:06:47 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 10:06
atta boy Jack
resorting to copy and pasting your comments.
[updated Mon Jun 08 10:11:43 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 10:11
Jack
Keep up repeating what your glorious leader has programmed you to say. It's obviously not working as Harper slides into oblivion.
New leader, new CPC.
[updated Mon Jun 08 10:14:49 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 10:14
larryl
Thank you for those quotes. The people who missed them the first time I posted them have a second opprtunity to read and learn. Of course they aren't about Chretien ,Turner and all things from the past 30 years where you are stuck. Get with the present and figure out your new hero is ruining our country. I was ashamed to see him represent us at the D-Day celebrations on the weekend. The man will cause he break up or bankruptcy ,maybe both, of Canada.As long as keep spewing the C.R.A.P. propaganda we will be forced to endure more of the redneck racist Reform/Alliance .The old P.C. members are getting fed up and will turn to the left wing Tory Ignatieff.
[updated Mon Jun 08 10:17:07 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 10:17
I am glad you can stand by your own words showing your double-speak on supporting Liberals.
You can't grasp the context of the article regarding the Liberals making their leaders disposable. (Too many big words possibly)
You can't grasp the "context or comparisons" of the posts of both parties behaving in the same manner when in power and your "own posts" admitting to those facts.
[updated Mon Jun 08 10:27:42 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 10:27
larryl
I am quite capable of seeing that it does not matter which party is in power or even at what level of government we discuss. Politicians in power are corrupt or soon will be after being elected. Go back and read more of my posts from more than a year ago and you will see this has been my opinion from the beginning. I will continue to attack the C.R.A.P. and their leader and support the Liberals since they are the only party that has any chance of getting rid of these incompetent crooks who are leading us into bankruptcy.Western allienation grows with every bailout dollar spent by the eastern bums even when Harper is the one doing the spending.You can't see that because you are too busy looking at the history of the Chretien Liberals who according to you did nothing but you blame them for everything . Make up your mind.You are the one obsessed with attacking the Liberal/NDP coalition with the Bloc support but Harper was prepared to do the same thing to oust the Grits. That is the point . They all say different things but do the exact opposite when they have the opportunity. Harper could have governed with a minority for 3 years and saved us the cost of 2 unnecessary elections if he was not such a power hungry control freak.
[updated Mon Jun 08 10:54:11 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 10:54
I voted for the Liberals for a very long time and assisted from councillor to Premier Bob Rae so I don't need a History lesson who is lying and betraying their base.
I am not rewriting history or blaming the Tories for the Liberal decisions when they had majorities.
As I have stated and not recanted, the Liberals failed in their 13 years to do anything to create a Legacy and left power with Billions in scandals and mismanagement.(A sad FACT)
The sad fact is you lied about your posted a FALSEHOOD about your support of the Liberals.
I gave many reasons why the Liberal lost and don't deserve to another shot at power without a serious rebuild.
Liberals apologists think after a 3 year time-out all is forgiven and they are now fit.
You can attack and label anyone who is voting for CPC as a "Neo-con, Haperite and right wing nut, stooge etc" being called named by apologisits and zealots in nothing new.
The FACT and POINT is not a single Liberal apologist to date has can explain how minority CPC government has been in power for 1200 days with Liberal, Bloc and NDP each taking turns in passing those Bills.
Hot Air and rhetoric is what he get instead. The coalition of the 3 stooges had the votes to stop the CPC on EVERY single Bill he has introduced, Dion,Iggy flip flops signed an ACCORD and recanted. Those are simple FACTS.
So keep up the "hot air" about the evil Harper and his plans to destroy Canada while reasonable Canadians believe he is not to blame for the Global Recession or the Deficit Spendng to help Canadians.
Vote Liberals to see Ontario get the cuts again! At least the Bloc has the system figured out well holding both parties hostage to secure Billions for their province.
[updated Mon Jun 08 11:19:50 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 11:19
larryl
We have a human lie detector in our midst. Please since you are so good at posting my words tell me when and where I lied. You can't. I have never blamed Harper for the world recession but did predict it back on May 26th of last year if you want to check. That was months before your hero even thought we might see one. They would not even admit it was here for months after it started. What kind of fool would lower revenues when he was expecting an economic downturn, You know as well as I do that th bills passed by the C.R.A.P. was because of blackmailing the opposition parties. If they were not non-confidence bills they would have been voted down. The opposition did not or could not force another election and Harper knew it. Unethical tactics that have never been used before and probably never will be again unless the C.R.A.P. gets another minority which I really doubt. Even you must know Western seperatists are loving what Harper is doing to promote the State of Oilberta. I will soon need a passport to visit my former place of residence if Steve stays much longer.
[updated Mon Jun 08 13:56:28 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 13:56
psiclone
I am quite simply amazed that the Conservative numbers aren't way worse! Think of it folks a right wing PM with 2 minority terms under his belt conducting an unpopular shooting war in a foreign country, fighting off a series of opponent partys leaders, a global recession the likes of we haven't seen in god knows how many years ... yet he is still in the game. Now this quite obviously tells me that we have one of those rare breeds on our hands and it is amazing to watch. I think Harper has the ability to make left wing nuts go absolutley crazy and it is sure fun to watch! I do notice that a pattern is developing and this not bode well for the liberals. I was expecting a much higher incerease in the LPC numbers coming out of the pseudo leadership convention with his party all soundly behind him (never a good sign) however this doesn't appear to be the case and if the usual summer doldrums come into play Iggy will not be in a good position come this fall. I have a sneaking suspicion that not only will there be no election this summer but that there will be no election in the fall and next spring well who knows in point of fact I wouldn't be surprised if there is no election next year as well and Harper will be sitting in the PM's chair when he brings the troops home and wouldn't that be something!
[updated Mon Jun 08 13:52:28 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 13:52
16 replies so far. Join this conversationHide this conversation.
larryl
psi. What have you been smoking. Do you really believe Steve in his desire for power can go that long without forcing another unnecessary election on us. It is much too dangerous for him to risk the taxpayers finding out just how big the deficit is and still growing. What will the electorate do to the C.R.A.P. and especially the economissed when the truth is revealed.?
[updated Mon Jun 08 14:32:59 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 14:32
History Lesson Again:
It was the Liberals under Chretien who attempted to legalize POT (2001)
now Iggy at helm looks like George Bush Policies are now liberal policies!
I am sure the screaming left who live in URBAN BC when not lighting up are going to keep voting for the G.W. clone and unite under the Liberals.
Liberals to support Tory bill on crime- But move risks backlash from party grassroots
http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/article/647096
"I think it's a terrible idea," Toronto lawyer James Morton, deputy chair of the Liberals' council of riding presidents, wrote on his blog.
Jim Curran, a former riding president from Niagara Falls, compared this to the Liberals' support of the Harper government's move in 2008 to give the immigration minister more power to decide who gets into the country.
"This is one of the dumbest things I've seen the Liberal Party of Canada support in decades. It's right up there with that immigration bill we let pass last May that cost us about five ridings in the GTA," Curran wrote on his blog, referring to the results of the October election."
Iggy is simply the new DICTATOR in the Libs pushing his G.W. policies and supporting the CPC.
http://thestar.blogs.com/politics/2009/06/liberal-revolt.html
As a Liberal involved in the party, I can attest to the real uneasiness of the party base over supporting this measure. On En Famille, a party website forum, not a single person spoke in favour of the mandatory minimums. There was unanimous opposition.
During the party policy process, members of the BC wing and the membership as a whole voted overwhelmingly for marijuana legalization. Our party may still be wary of supporting legalization, but it certainly makes sense that there is a grassroots revolt going on when the party explicitely moves in the other direction on drug policy.
Also, in terms of the blogosphere, these are respected Liberals. James Morton is a law professor who ran for a position in this party and James Curren is a skilled lawyer. These bloggers are not losers in their parent's basement as you say they are, they are respected people in this party echoing a strong sentiment of concern over our party's inconsistency here. Ignatieff can not just ignore the anger brewing here.-James Curran
[updated Tue Jun 09 10:03:08 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 10:03
Jack
Recent history: Harper supports minister who values partisan politics over cancer patients after a string of 11 losing polls.
New leader, new CPC.
[updated Tue Jun 09 10:14:44 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 10:14
atta boy Jack
Keep your eye on the important issues of National Importance with those liberal talking points.
[updated Tue Jun 09 10:28:57 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 10:28
Jack
Yes, pay no attention to the Harper failure and blundering, its not important. Lets change the channel.
“But it's sexy. ‘Radioactive leaks. Cancer.'"
Harper supports minister who values partisan politics over cancer patients after a string of 11 losing polls.
New leader, new CPC.
[updated Tue Jun 09 10:35:28 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 10:35
atta boy Jack
Just like a rabid dog, led by the Opposition, keep calling for her head.
Let's spend another $ 10.5 Billion while the Opposition demand the EVIL, meanie, neo-con, cabinet minister resign for her CRUEL and tastless remarks and personal remarks about benefitting from spending "millions of taxpayers" money fixing an aging facility.
Off with her head!
atta boy!
[updated Tue Jun 09 10:48:32 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 10:48
Jack
Yes, pay no attention to the Harper failure and blundering, its not important. Lets change the channel.
“But it's sexy. ‘Radioactive leaks. Cancer.'"
Harper supports minister who values partisan politics over cancer patients after a string of 11 losing polls.
New leader, new CPC.
[updated Tue Jun 09 11:20:44 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 11:20
larryl
You really are stuck in the past.Why do you dwell on Chretien and history.According to you they did nothing for 13 years. He must have done something to you personnally for this incessant attack. Look at what is happening now. Another interesting story this morning about Bulldog Baird telling Toronto f off.My apologies to all the bulldogs out there. How much more of this C.R.A.P. are we going to have to put up with. Look to the future and stop living in the past.
[updated Tue Jun 09 10:33:31 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 10:33
Jack
Yes, anything but having to face the Harper failure, blundering and supporting a minister who values partisan politics over cancer patients after a string of 11 losing polls.
Why would he want to talk about the here and now. The olden days were much better for him.
[updated Tue Jun 09 10:38:57 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 10:38
You insult a poster inferring he is smoking POT, I simply reminded you what party tried to legalize it, the same Party you "don't support since Trudeau except Ruby Dhallay of course...
Living in the past..really?
You and Brian Mulroney threads, that past? Just checking.
[updated Tue Jun 09 10:44:31 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 10:44
larryl,
Comparing the 3 years of minority CPC working in partnership on each Bill with each other party vs the last Liberal Government is FAIR comment. Even though Iggy did not live in Canada for 34 years and was not available for Canadian issues, he has done NOTHING to distance himself from that Liberal track record.
The Liberal defense for the Invisible Man: Wait for it, when we are ready, we will propose ideas. Until than we will pass the "Neo-con" Bills, blame them and ask for a Report Card without conditions!
I supported the Liberals decriminializing POT to help those Canadians who would benefit of alternative health value.
As a former Liberal witnessing 20 Liberals sign a petition for John Turner's head was a massive mistake. The infighting by Liberals making the leaders disposable is responsible for their problems. Iggy allowing Danny Williams to whip the Federal Liberals on a percieved injustice was another strategic mistake.
You were honest the Liberals are not prepared and hope the CPC are going to held responsible for the Global Recession and the pain felt by those.
A BIG difference larryl, we both live in Ontario, and the Liberals made the decisions to do nothing for Ontario, the West and spend millions in Quebec to stay in power.
Gutting $ 25 Billion to the provinces in Healthcare, Education in the 90's was wrong. I could not support those significant decisions. They were not honest about balancing the books. They simply raided the EI program of $ 53 Billion.
[updated Tue Jun 09 11:48:36 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 11:48
larryl
Why do you refuse to see what is so obvious to the rest of us.Harper did not work in partnership to pass bills. He blackmailed and coerced the opposition parties. The transfer payments made by the Liberals were not to health care and education and were not made by them . What the provinces did with less money was entirely their decision. Mike the knife decided to cut taxes to his corporate buddies and slashed spending on health care. We are still suffering from those cuts. There were no waiting lists before Harris created them. Health costs have soared because of drug companies. The former health minister had to relocate to another riding because the people of Brampton knew he was in bed with the drug companies. Harper in all his wisdom appointed a rookie as minister of the most important cabinet post and now she is being criticized by her own cabinet colleagues. I really do believe you are a woman since the old saying goes "Hell knows no fury like a woman scorned" What did the Liberals or Chretien in particular do to you.
[updated Tue Jun 09 13:29:38 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 13:29
Nice larryl rewriting history again and making sexist comments disparaging women. Another proud moment for you?
The CPC acted illegally and "blackmailed" each opposition party to pass Neo-con Bills. Nice the scary, evil CPC used their mind-control powers!
You and Jack graduate from the same school, or are you both on leave from NASA?
History lesson Bob Rae did the deal to allow GM to break the Pension matching.
The Corporate Welfare Guru= NDP
Bob Rae, Mike Harris and McGuinty all stated the Liberals were not being fair and shafted Ontario during their 13 years at the helm.
Nice try. BTW Dalton is now the Liberal who is using an arm length agency to close hospitals and emergency departments while at the Millions being wasted are on friends in untendered contracts.
"Sarah Kramer resigned as chief executive officer this weekend after only seven months on the job and amid a scandal involving sole-sourced contracts and rich consultancy fees to Courtyard and other firms. She received $316,670 in severance pay, the equivalent of 10 months of her annual salary of $380,000."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/scandal-grows-at-ehealth-ontario/article1174148/
[updated Tue Jun 09 14:39:31 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 14:39
larryl
I think you might finally figure out what I have been saying all along. There is no difference in the main political parties at any level of government. Why do we get stuck with incompetent boobs to run our country ,province or city. The smart people don't put up public embarassment . They just reap the benefits of coruption from the likes of Mulroney,Harris McGuinty and the list is endless from whoever is in power.You don't really believe things are or will be different with Harper . You won't tell us what the Liberals did to you?Did they chase you away from the trough?
[updated Tue Jun 09 15:03:34 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 15:03
Jack
Why stop there, maybe there will never be another election because Harper will be so popular that Canadians will make him King. Fantasies are fun.
New leader, new CPC.
[updated Mon Jun 08 14:35:55 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 14:35
Welcome back,
interesting how you are not calling for financial doom as the posters and the brain trust in the opposition benches are!
Agreed the LPC numbers should be much higher and be consistent before they should trigger an election.
We both know how desperate the screaming left are and their need to conduct social engineering projects on Canadians.
The good news is Europe is leaving the "social democrat" experiment behind as more right of centre parties are increasing their seats.
The Accidental Visitor is trying to fix his leaking ship and trying to expose the other oppositions parties for not voting for the CPC Bills.
It is a thankless job for the Liberals keeping the CPC in power during these tough times. We need to be much more considerate and wish them well as they try to find volunteers again who believe in their Platform (once they get it).
[updated Tue Jun 09 09:49:51 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 09:49
larryl
Just received this open letter to the P.M. Any opinions would be welcome.
Dear Mr. Harper,
Please find below my suggestion for fixing Canada's economy. Instead of giving billions of dollars to banks and car companies, that will squander the money on lavish parties and unearned bonuses, use the following plan:
There are about 20 million people over 50 in the work force. Pay them $1 million apiece severance for early retirement with the following stipulations:
1) They MUST retire. Twenty million job openings - Unemployment fixed.
2) They MUST buy a new Canadian CAR. Twenty million cars ordered - Auto Industry fixed.
3) They MUST either buy a house or pay off their mortgage - Housing Crisis fixed.
4) They must send their kids to school / college /university - Crime rate fixed
5) Buy $50 of alcohol / tobacco / gas a week... there's your money back in duty / tax etc
It can't get any easier than that!
P.S. If more money is needed, have all members of parliament pay back their falsely claimed expenses and second home allowances.
If you think this would work, please forward to everyone you know. If not, please disregard.
[updated Mon Jun 08 14:02:20 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 14:02
9 replies so far. Join this conversationHide this conversation.
Randy H
I am a single male over 55, never been married, no kids , don't smoke or drink. Don't own a vehicle but will buy one with the million and gas it up a lot.
Thanks a million.
[updated Mon Jun 08 14:21:27 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 14:21
larryl
If you take up smoking and drinking you might get out and meet someone . Of course with a million dollars why would want to . Hope you don't gamble either because the government would get their million back real quick with all their crooked lotteries. Do you spend your time blogging for the C.R.A.P. Sounds like you might be a tad too Conservative.
[updated Mon Jun 08 14:40:22 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 14:40
Randy H
Larry , I don't gamble either. As for Conservative..;~) Not a chance I would vote for that bunch again. Did in 2006 for the first time because I got 'Conned' into believing that Steve and the CPC really were going to be accountable, honest, and open. Yeah right.
I have a good relaxed retired life with lots of hobbies and friends. No need to be concerned about me..
[updated Mon Jun 08 14:45:08 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 14:45
larryl
Randy. You were not the only one to get conned. Glad to hear you have friends ut nothing is quite like having kids and wife around. I guess being a socialist I am automatically concerned about others.
[updated Mon Jun 08 16:01:10 -0400 2009]
08 Jun 16:01
Bernie
Larryl I would prefer that over what we have now. Unfortunately I could never allow the government to tell me how to spend it. I TELL THE GOVERNMENT! IT DOESN"T TELL ME!
I am retired. I drive a 16 year old car. I still have a big mortgage. My kids are grown up.
I don't smoke or drink or gamble.
I don't need a car myself. I need the car to drive my wife around. If our uncaring government would pay to have the gas and brake controls up on the steering column she could drive herself.
My eyesight is slowly deteriorating but I can't afford proper glasses. I buy dollar store glasses. I have lost four teeth since I retired because I can't afford dental insurance.
When I see Harper on TV telling about all his government does for Canadian citizens I have to laugh to keep from crying.
It's the thanks I get for over 40 years in the labour force (Sometimes two jobs).
When I think about all I've contributed just in health alone and yet I have never been in hospital . Didn't even have a doctor. I don't take any medicine or drugs, not even an Aspirin
Some day that may change but I keep my fingers crossed that it will still be some time in the future.
No, my system is to ensure that every citizen has the basic necessities of life. I believe that could be done for less than 30,000 a year, maybe as low as 20 T.
Canada is worth trillions. Each of us own Canada, therefore our government should not be prohibiting us from have our fair share. But the government should not tell us how to spend it.
[updated Tue Jun 09 07:59:27 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 07:59
larryl
Bernie.Please forgive the intrusion in your personal affairs but I have some free advice. Your family doctor can send you to the optometrist and Ohip will pay for the exam. There are government programs that will pay for eyeglasses . Your vision is much too important to neglect . My friend who was sole caregiver for his wife suddenly lost most of his sight and now is totally blind. He was over 80 but it can happen at any age .I think the letter to the P.M. was just one example of the many things that could be done for people rather than throw away money giving it to their corporate friends.The $50 billion in bailouts has done absolutely nothing . I think a few conditions on how to spend some of the money could be tolerated if it got us out of the financial mess we are in.You are dreaming if you think we tell the government what to do with our money.If we had any say I doubt G.M. ,Chrysler and the financial institutions would have received a dime of my money.Finally with the free advice you might want to sell your house and ge into a geared to income rental.When people figure out how much it actually costs to run a house and pay the mortgage it is much cheaper to rent.Lived in an apartment for five years and saved thousands . Got rid of the car and huge insurance and maintenance costs . Taxis when absolutely needed are much cheaper than operating a car.It can be done .
[updated Tue Jun 09 08:57:31 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 08:57
Bernie
Larryl No need to apologize. Your advice is appreciated. However it's only fair to let you know an ornery cuss and don't listen to advice readily :-). I have a feeling you may also are of the same ilk.
Re Glasses. yes I am aware that the test is free. in fact I had my eyes tested awhile back and was told I only needed reading glasses I couldn't afford their prices so i settled for the 1$ variety.
I totally agree with your comments on bailouts. I wouldn't give them or any corporation one penny. And I'm not hold my breath on governments doing what we want them to. I know it's a dream to even ask them, but it's a nightmare what they are doing
Yes selling the house is a good financial option. And if I were The only one making the decision I would buy a cheaper house in a small and cheaper community.
I could never live in an apartment building. I want want my own house and a piece of land surrounding it. I love puttering around in my garden.
Watching a Baltimore oriole (not the baseball team) flying back and forth bringing food to her brood, hanging like a little sack from a willow about 30 feet above me.
I am willing to pay a price for my stubbornness and what I call quality of life rather than quantity
Another thing I failed to mention in the previous post; I never spend money in someone else's country. If possible I buy local whenever I can and don't mind paying 15+ % more for it. Money isn't everything.
[updated Tue Jun 09 10:47:46 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 10:47
larryl
Bernie. You are right about taking advice from others. Having your house is great I agree but eventually it will not be financially possible because of Tory Taxes. When the P.C.s made insurance mandatory they imposed regulations on the insurance companies so they could not gouge us. Harris soon fixed that problem and now insurance brokers are raking in huge profits. Insurance rates are obscene or even criminal for some drivers. There was a deadly collision here on Sunday night and the intersection was closed for 14 hours because police now do what insurance companies used to do .We can't sue since it cost the insurance companies too much money so why spend that long trying to determine who was at fault. I am off on a tangent but you get the idea. They may lower some of our taxes but only so we have more money to give the rip off artists they call entrepreneurs. As fort spending your money locally I guess you don't shop at Wal-Mart since 99% of what they sell is imported . That includes the groceries they sell. Since anyone can read this it might educate a few of the oher right wing wackos who think Conservatives are so great.
[updated Tue Jun 09 13:50:23 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 13:50
Too funny!
I heard the U.S.S.R. had great success in their social experiments too.
What else should the Federal Government impose on us?
[updated Tue Jun 09 11:51:39 -0400 2009]
09 Jun 11:51