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March 22, 2004

The Conservative leadership convention over the weekend provided no surprise outcome, as Harper was clearly noted to be a likely first ballot winner long in advance of the proceedings.

Over the course of the campaign, Harper has done a good job of moderating not only his image, but also his policy platform.  That being said, the majority of criticism of the new party will focus on Harper's right-wing "extremism," which has emerged as the key word of attack in the Liberals' communications strategy.

Fear mongering aside, whether Harper will be able to rise above the damaging baggage he carries from his tenure in the Canadian Alliance/Reform parties will be a fascinating case study as to whether political rebirth and renewal is really possible within the country's political climate.

Fortunately, this election will not be simply a two horse race, as both the Bloc Quebecois and the NDP have gained much momentum in the polls.  Jack Layton has proven himself to be the most skillful and effective federal party leader in Canada, and the BQ have opened up a huge lead in popularity over the fledgling Liberals.

Minority governments, for the sake of legislative efficiency, productivity and decorum, are never usually outcomes that are ideal.  In consideration of the depths that the current government has sunk to, however, a minority government and a return to political parity could quite possibly be the healthiest political development to occur in Canada in over a decade.

Comments? jonathan@tdhstrategies.com