Blue Like You

Archive for September 15th, 2008

Is it possible that Jack Layton could become the next Leader of Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition? A few months ago this might have seemed like a crazy idea, but now the possibility begins to loom large on the horizon.

Jack started the whole thing himself with his initial strategy to take over Stephen Harper’s job, but as discussed a few weeks ago we all know where he really hopes to be living after the election. The NDP leader wrote off  Stephane Dion right off the bat as a potential opponent requiring his attention and effort.

That plan seems to be paying off.  Polling numbers are showing that Jack Layton has passed Stephane Dion on the issue of leadership.

In fact, the Hill Times quotes a pollster as observing that the race between Layton and Dion for second place as being the most fascinating aspect of this election (H/T National Newswatch):

"…The most interesting issue in the campaign I don’t think is whether the Conservatives can lose, because I don’t think they can," said Conrad Winn of polling firm Compas. I think the most interesting issue is the battle between the NDP and the Liberals. It’s extremely rare for the NDP to have an opportunity to place second nationally. The Liberals gave the NDP that opportunity by choosing the least prepossessing of their four leadership candidates as leader. The NDP won’t have this chance in the next election…This is probably the only chance of two generations of a breakthrough for the NDP …"

Indeed, the Conservative strategists are beginning to grasp the reality that Jack Layton could be their real opponent and are planning to adjust the campaign accordingly.

Reports like this regarding the Liberal Green Shift plan will not help Stephane Dion’s efforts. (One wonders if the those who endorsed his plan are having second thoughts. Click on "Find Out What People are Saying". )

Of course, it’s still early days in this election, but the thought of having the NDP as the Official Opposition is a rather startling one to comprehend. If it actually occurs, then the Liberal Party will really need to do a thorough house-cleaning from the top down.

Moving out of Stornoway will just be the beginning.

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Update: Please vote at the Poll Page - Which party will form the next Official Opposition in Canada?

Maybe I should put up another poll taking bets on how big that kitchen table will be that Jack moves into Stornoway?

Check out who’s featured today at Jack’s Newswatch , Daily Blogger! Thanks, Jack.

Afternoon Update: Poll suggests Conservative lead softening - CBC. The left can breathe easy again!

Tuesday Update: Canada’s Liberals headed for third place finish:poll.