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The most interesting thing that I heard throughout that debate (which was mostly filled with things we already knew) was the idea that debt reduction was the highest priority for the Liberals. My conservative cousin immediately changed his vote upon hearing that. The facts are, the Conservative party's promises are empty because the cannot be fulfilled, Martin was right about the 50 billion dollar 'black hole'; independent economists agree. The NDP is idealistic and has all the right intentions, and would improve the country (socially) immensely, AT THE SIGNIFICANT COST OF FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY. They would pay off none of the debt, and probably do a fair bit of damage to the economy. I'm voting liberal. I have no doubt that they won't meet every promise they've made (specifically, child care), but if they reduce the debt without running a deficit, that's impressive on its own, and you casn't argue with Martin's financial history. It's downright impressive. He used to be environmental secretary, so he's not uninformed about that, and he's always been involved in the corporate sector, having been a businessman (and young millionaire) before going into politics. He defended himself well. However, he did refuse to answer questions on the sponsorship scandal, a fact offset by his allegation that they're investigating it... when those results come out, I don't know. That being said, if you actually look at who was involved, it's almost a certainty that he was not. Whether he KNEW about it is another matter, but either way, he's taking responsibility. That problem is in the past. The liberals are the only moderate party, and because of that, I think they'll win by a fair margin and form a minority government.
If you're thinking of voting conservative, remember Martin's financial responsibility in the past, his elimination of the deficit, and the fact that debt reduction is a high priority for him. Then note that Harper will almost certainly run a very large deficit, and has not accounted for the gaping holes in his financial plan. As far as maintaining your (and the country's) financial stability, Martin is a solid choice, and Harper is a risk.
If you're thinking of voting NDP, remember Martin's commitment to the environment, and his experience as a minister in that capacity. note that the liberal party has and will support NDP members on many decisions, and will undoubtedly form coalitions with the NDP on many issues (and we all know how seldom NDP members compromise).
If you're thinking of voting Bloc... well... il n'y a probablement rien que je peut dire pour vous convaincre de faire une autre choix.
Just a couple of things to think about when casting your ballot.
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In a haze
A stormy haze
I’ll be around
I’ll be loving you
Always
Always
Here I am
And I’ll take my time
Here I am
And I’ll wait in line
Always
Always...
