Many Canadians across the country were glued to their television sets to watch what was billed as the televised political leaders' debate. They were likely to be disappointed with what they saw. The suggestion that the event was a debate rather than the Gong Show it turned out to be was laughable. It seems neither our esteemed Canadian Political leaders nor their supposedly literate handlers have absolutely any idea of what a debate involves.
Rather following anything remotely resembling appropriate debating form, the four stooges chose to engage in personal attacks, bickering, spewing vague generalities, and promising everything to all without the slightest reference to any defined proposals or strategy for actually keeping those promises.
Stephen Harper possibly managed to come the closest to actually debating, albeit with the same message, that is Canada's economic wellbeing, constantly repeated. Harper might also be awarded points for maintaining his composure in the face of the attacks of his three opponents, though, at times, he definitely appeared to exert a good deal of self control.
Jack Layton, the class clown in the room, seemed bent on ridicule rather offering than substantive proposals. His corporate bashing attempt to paint his party as defenders of the sick, aged and working classes could only be made by someone in his position. Layton's slippery sidestepping of issues was painfully illustrated when pinned down on the question of Quebec's Bill 101. If that's his version of an answer, it seems pointless to ask a question.
Rather than coming across as a political leader above the pettiness of partisan politics in the interest of providing good government, Michael Ignatieff appeared intent on hurling accusations of impropriety and contempt at Harper while ignoring any aspersions directed his way by his opponents. He might have taken the high road and shown his stature as a leader capable of directing the country's fortunes. He chose instead, American style political mudslinging
Finally we had Monsieur Duceppe. Why he was there instead of Elizabeth May confounds us. He clearly had no national focus nor program. On first glance he has no desire to be prime minister, at least of Canada. His strategy appeared to be to steer clear of any commentary other than that which seemed to be self-serving at best. The only time he came to life was in a brief exchange with Layton.
Debates aside, voting time is nearing, are you ready to cast YOUR ballot?
