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Let's step back, take a breath and realize a few things.
Yesterday's vote was history in the making. I know I did not want a conservative majority, but I am not about to hyperventilate about it.
The NDP accomplished what the liberals AND conservatives failed to do....they brought Quebec back into the fold of federal politics. That in itself is huge.
The NDP have, for the first time in HISTORY, suddenly found themselves in the party in waiting position. They will have more resources available to them to grow into something that is more legitimate and relevant to the eyes of the canadian voter.
I have said it before, and I will suggest it again - the left needs to unite in one unified party. As long as we have a liberal party and an NDP party seperated -we will have issues with the first past the post election regime. Canadians have rejected Ignatieff. Now - right now, would be a good time to form a new party as the official opposition. If memory serves me correctly - this is exactly what the conservatives did when they were fractured into the reform party and the progressive conservatives.
Steven Harper has a majority and with it carries the burden of being prime minister of every canadian. IF he veers too far right - he will face the condemnation of the voter. That is fact. He knows this. I expect and hope he is wise enough to recognize that Quebec coming back is an opportunity - a historic chance to cement the vision of Canada as a united nation. In order to do this - he must work WITH Layton.
I am hopeful, but at the same time wary. Harper's record is not one of conciliation - but we shall see.
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