dennis.ca

Two enthralling hours of my life wasted while watching the 2004 Canadian Party Leader Debate... I cannot recall a recent time -- nay, any time -- during which the political lines have been so blurred between Canadian Federal parties. Traditional party values have been shuffled aside in favour of double-talk, pandering, and insults. That statement seems somehow naive now that I've actually typed it.

Voters who are rightly upset with the Liberals for ungratefully punting Jean Chretien, the Federal sponsorship scandal, or even broken promises at the Provincial level have little recourse if they're not interested in a Conservative (Alliance) leadership. A New Democratic Party or Bloc Qu�b�cois (or any non-Liberal, for that matter) vote clearly favours the Conservatives.

I had initially intended to take notes during the debate, but quickly surrendered once the sparring began. No new information was presented, and truth be told, the best performance -- by far -- was delivered by Bloc Leader Gilles Duceppe. In fact, so impressed was I with his performance, I would seriously consider voting for the Bloc if I lived in Quebec.

Some quick recollections from each candidate's 'performance':

Gilles Duceppe (Bloc Quebecois): "Quebec is not better, but different". Deeply believes that Quebec is a nation that could have "ties with Canada". Clearly the best prepared, best debater, and the only participant capable of operating without a script. Safe to assume that he only cares about issues as they relate to Quebec.

Paul Martin (Liberal): Really wanted to underline the Martin/Harper option. Says he can eliminate hospital waiting times like he eliminated the deficit. As instructed by his handlers, looked directly into the camera when answering to the sponsorship scandal. Incredibly arrogant and childish statement to Layton, "Did your handlers tell you to talk all the time?"

Steven Harper (Conservative): Same old, same old -- Issues of Liberal waste, mismanagement of funds, scandal, and trust. Made a solid point about democratic responsibility and the ability to replace a government when it behaves badly. Stunningly right-wing cronies are exceptionally dangerous even though he presents himself as moderate.

Jack Layton (New Democratic Party): 'Used car salesman' camera presence. Very positive platform. Traditional NDP values in the form of no private health care, affordable living for all. Urged voters not to reward scandal and broken promises. Too much repetition in too loud a voice. Cute idealism, questionable plan of execution.

I, for one, will likely be grudgingly forced to vote Liberal even though I'm extremely dissatisfied with Paul Martin, et all. Harper running the country is simply a prospect that's too frightening.