The Bloc's strategy

They've only agreed to support a Liberal/NDP coalition government for 18 months (what a troika). I think the Bloc happily expects the coalition members to make a right hash of things--and not do "enough" for Québec. The Bloc will then pull the plug on the coalition, at a propitious moment in their judgement, in the expectation of a massive Conservative victory in the Rest of Canada in the ensuing election.

With the Bloc, at the same time, doing very well indeed in Québec. A great situation for a real revival of separatism, as the results would demonstrate nicely that the two parts of the, er, country really have almost nothing in common. "Conditions gagnantes"?

Meanwhile, Mr Layton e-mails me:

Stephen Harper must be replaced‏

My Fellow New Democrat,

After all we’ve seen in the last 5 days, it couldn’t be any clearer.

It’s time to replace Stephen Harper. It’s time to put you and your family first.

In these uncertain economic times, Canadians are looking for a Parliament that can work together to put working families first. Won’t you join me today in our coalition for change?

Elected with just 38% of the vote, Stephen Harper acts as if he has 100% of the power. Instead of attacking this economic crisis with a meaningful stimulus package, Harper chose total inaction and cheap political tricks. Enough is enough.

This isn’t what Canadians voted for. This is not what working families need in these tough times.

We have another choice. Now there is an alternative. Together, you and I can make it a reality.

Your New Democrats are working with the other opposition parties to put forward an alternative government – a coalition for real change.

This coalition will allow us to achieve the results that average Canadian families expect from New Democrats: action to create jobs, to protect your pension and retirement, and to lay the foundation for the green economy of tomorrow.

But there’s a long way to go to make it a reality. Stephen Harper is desperate to cling to power. His corporate-backed Conservatives are pulling out every dirty trick in the book.

That’s why I’m asking you now to join this coalition for change. You can start by making a generous donation of $90, $150, or whatever you can afford right now. We’ll use your donation to counter Harper’s powerplay in the days to come. Together we’ll give Parliament back to the 62% majority that voted against Stephen Harper.

Join with me now. Let’s make history with the first federal government to include New Democrats that’ll get results for you and your family.

Sincerely,
Jack Layton
Leader, Canada’s NDP

P.S. The campaign is on to bring real change – I’ll keep you up to date with developments in the coming days. Join our coalition for change right now by making a generous donation. Remember your gift is eligible for a generous tax credit. Real change is in your hands – please act now.

The message has those five identical begging links. The man wants moolah.

Mark C.

Posted by markc at December 2, 2008 12:00 AM