<----------Political Science student and an avid New Democrat

I don't know much about the candidates, but I must say, everyone seems to be taking the election much more peacefully than over here. The US is split up in two sides with a wall inbetween them. It'* sad. It seems in Canada people are more tolerant to each party, which is good.

I was at home last weekend near Detroit, and one of the radio stations I listen to is from Canada. I heard some radio ads for the political parties, and it was a shock for me. There was no backstabbing or slander. They simply pointed out their ideals and goals. It was a nice change to listen to that from over there.

I have no opinion on the election ... but as Ryan said, I hope your leader doesn't become best buddy'* with Bush... ( just saying... )

Yeah, the campaigns here are generally considered to be more positive and peaceful than our American counterparts. Don't get me wrong, there is a fair amount of polarlisation between voters concerning the 2 main parties (Liberal and Conservative), but I think it is to a much lesser degree than in the US.

This election was actually VERY negative, by Canadian standards. The Conservative campaign initiated the negative ads, and the other 3 parties followed suit soon after. However, even the negative ads were seen as "soft" by many Americans. In fact, Jon Stewart (of the Daily Show) even ran a feature about how "weak" the negative Canadian ads were, saying that the parties need to learn from the US parties on how to make a REAL negative ad.

And so far, it doesn't look like Bush is Mr. Harper'* best friend, as he chose not to call and congratulate him today. Many analysts are predicting that there will be few (if any) concessions made simply for posterity'* sake. For example, it is predicted that neither government will move on the Softwood lumber debate, so Canada will not likely ever see the approximately $500 million it is owed by the US.