If polls are correct, and given their recent track records in a couple of provincial elections this should never be assumed, Canadians want change in the coming federal election. Interestingly enough Americans seem to be even more vocal in their desire for change as they collectively vent their thorough disgust and exasperation with "the establishment" and in particular the mainstream media and politicians.
But change for the sake of change without due intelligence and caution has often in our history made matters worse instead of better. Few would deny that we are living in unusual and dangerous times with a fragile economy and the ever
growing threat of terrorism worldwide. If ever there was a time for caution, sound judgment and leadership in Canada it is now.
Tom Mulcair and Justin Trudeau have made it their main "platforms" to "get rid of Stephen Harper" and repeat their intention every chance they get. So just as Mulcair is trying to convince Canadians that he is a "moderate" choice in the upcoming federal election activist Naomi Klein and a number of prominent NDP supporters release the "Leap Manifesto" just before the election which calls for getting rid of fossil fuels and an overhaul of the country's capitalist economy which would according to these brilliants transform the entire capitalist system into a utopia. The timing of this extremist Manifesto could not be worse for Mulcair but should also serve as a warning to Canadians about the extreme views of a wing of the NDP.
Then we have Justin Trudeau with his "real change" view of growing the economy "from the heart outwards" which would mean increased taxes and running deficits. His real change in real terms would mean running the country into the red. He would take Canada on a reckless spending spree in a time of unprecedented economic instability worldwide. While he speaks of "modest" deficits it is left to our imagination as to what he would do if a real future economic or other catastrophe hit where the national deficit could run into the billions.
Stephen Harper has given this country imperfect but stable government for ten years. He comes into this election having achieved significant international trade agreements, a balanced budget, a surplus and a proven record. I believe the majority
of Canadians still see him as the prudent and best choice to continue to lead the country.
