Green party throws support behind coalition

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Green party throws support behind coalition

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CTV.ca News Staff

Date: Tue. Dec. 2 2008 6:06 PM ET

Green Party Leader Elizabeth May confirmed Tuesday that she has had discussions with Liberal Leader Stephane Dion about playing a role in a potential coalition government, which her party supports.

At a press conference in Ottawa, she suggested she would be open to the possibility of becoming a senator or cabinet minister, but the discussions with Dion were not specific.

May said that her party gained a significant number of votes in the last election and she would like to influence what happens in Ottawa under a potential coalition government.

"I would be the only senator that received a million votes," she said.

May noted that the Senate would give her party an avenue of helping shape the direction of Canada.

"We do not have a seat in the house, but we have people in this country who will mobilize to do what's right," she said.

But May noted while she fully supports the coalition and wants to see it succeed, she will not tell the coalition what to do.

"We're supporting this not to gain influence," she said at a press conference in Ottawa.

"Canadians urgently need action on the economy. Mr. Harper is not providing that ... Now is time to turn to the other parties and see if they can form a government."

May had reached a deal with the Liberals that she would not field a candidate in Dion's riding as long as the Liberals did not put up a candidate in her riding. Defence Minister Peter McKay ended up defeating May, while Dion won his seat.

Dion was asked about what role May may have in the potential government by reporters at Monday's coalition agreement signing ceremony.

Dion was vague, but he noted that he greatly admired the Nova Scotia politician and said his agreement with the Greens was the first step in cross-party cooperation.

"The only thing I want to say is I have strong admiration for Elizabeth May. Indeed, we had an agreement. We may say that we made the first step toward the idea that we need to reconsider how we act with partisan relationships in our country," he said.

Comments are now closed for this story

Reid
said

So, the Liberal gravy train is getting fired up, ready to leave the station and all the hangers on are lining up with their begging bowls, just like the auto makers.

Michelle Lange
said

I am furious and disgusted with the formation of a coalition against our elected government.
Stephen Harper was elected. The people of Canada voiced their opinion 6 weeks ago.
The coalition is an embarrassment to our country! Power hungry greedy men that are not listening to the people of Canada! Get back to work and solve the economic crisis instead of creating a new one.

James - Aylmer
said

So now they want to bring in someone that couldn't even win their own seat?!? How is this doing what the electorate want? This is getting ridiculous.

Don Hawkins
said

This coalition becomes more unstable and bizzare by the day.

Let's have another election and the Liberals/NDP/Green can decide to run one candidate in each riding, making it clear how they'd govern, and see if they win. If they do, fine.

Surely this is better than giving the Bloc basically a veto on all policy and opening up the treasury to NDP and Bloc special interests.

JD in Alberta
said

WESTERN SEPARATION NOW!!,WESTERN SEPARATION NOW!!,WESTERN SEPARATION NOW!!,WESTERN SEPARATION NOW!!

Marc , calgary
said

Some times people VOTE wrong.... and its in the best interest of the country to look after itself....

I didn't vote for a lame prime minister to sit on the back bench and wait....

I was furious was harper before this coalition even started. Wake up guys..... stop complaining about who won 37% of the vote, and start staning up for ACTION!!!!

if you lost your job lately, you'd understand!!!!

Tony Brown
said

Elizabeth May for Environment Minister!

J.G.
said

She gets to become a senator. Thats ridiculous!
She should be nothing but a voted out leader who has no political push.
What a joke!
Whats the website to the Western Seperatist Party?

Simon Shaw
said

This is awesome of Stephane Dion to reach out to Elizabeth May in this manner. I hope he will realize that it would go a long way in how people view him as a leader, if he also included some moderate centrist conservative MP's cabinet positions in this new coalition govt.

Josh in Bowmanville
said

And so... it begins. Not only do we get an unelected government, but Lizzy May gets in on the ground floor.

Harper did this with Fortier and they cried foul. Now it's ok?

Where is democracy?

James
said

Harper was NOT elected Michelle. He called the election to get his majority, but LOST. Canada will not give him that much power, even when his Conservatives are the only ones on the right, while the left is split three ways.

Democracy is working here folks. A minority government must work with the Opposition, of find themselves replaced by another minority government that was in fact duly elected, and just recently.

The problem is that Harper thought that he had the opposition on the ropes, but when he challanged their public funding - a fundemental requirement in a DEMOCRACY - he forced them to work together.

Harper rolled the dice one too many times.

myna lee johnstone
said

I am furious too. Furious that the Conservatives are hanging on with all their might and fear mongering about the Bloc.They will be out in full force spending lots of money on negative attack ads.
My fury is over ridden by the hope and inspiration that this Coalition could bring to Canadian politics: integrity, co-operation, action and a very representative government.

Dale - Edmonton
said

She's open to becoming a senator or cabinet minister....ME TOO ME TOO! Free tickets to the gravy train, step right up!

Paul
said

I voted for my local Conservative and not Harper. Harper is too smug. Never liked him. Didnt like the other leaders too. We are a country of uncharasimatic leaders.

People are forgeting that this is politics. What the coalition is doing is isnt illegal. Harper tried it before. If we gave them a majority then it would be different story but Canada said NO so the hipocrit harper will do anything to keep his power. Doesn't really care about the country.. But the handouts to the autosector is just wrong.. The auto unions should be removed. Toyota don't need money and I heard they don't use a union. But then again there cars a bit better

Matthew
said

To Michelle Lange:

Get your facts straight, and so some research. Just because the Conservatives won the most seats during the last election, it doesn't automatically give their leader the PM spot. It's the House's decision as to whom gets to be PM.

In this case, the House has lost confidence in it's current PM.

Citizens elected MPs, and in this case, the majority, yes the MAJORITY, of MPs do not agree with the Conservatives ideology. It's all about democracy, and it's working like it should.

If the Cons want to rule with an iron fist, they need a majority, which they don't have, and which I doubt the Canadian people will give them.

Deb Dionne
said

The thing that saddens me most about this is the lack of concern for our country's economic situation. The announcement of this coalition caused a drop in the Canadian market. None of the politicians care about Canada or how this will economically impact Canadians. They only care about advancing their political adgendas. Canadians spoke up when they voted for Stephen Harper to be our PM so step up to the plate guys support our PM and help our country weather this economic crises do not push us into further economic crises.

Adam from Toronto
said

Canadians did not vote for Stephen Harper as so many of you seem to think. They voted for their local MP, that MP may switch allegiances, turn independent, etc. Therefore when the MPs of other parties get together to form a coalition it is no less the expression of the will of the people than had Stephen Harper secured a Majority Government. For all of the conservative supporters (I was once one) you should realize that Harper has caused this by constantly looking at ways to stifle the other parties rather than govern. No wonder they have lost confidence in the house! They never know what his true motives are. He should step down, and another conservative should be appointed. Hopefully one whose main interest is in governing, not destroying the Liberal Party. The wire tapping of the NDP caucus was also a major concern, Harper is treading from partisan rancor to potentially criminal conduct. See Nixon to find out how that worked out. A coalition may not be right, but neither is a Prime Minister who can't seem to follow his own fixed election laws, spies on other parties for damaging information and uses a crisis to weaken parties of the opposition. Any student of history will tell you these are all the acts dictators take. Shameful. for the sake of the CPC he needs to resign, and do it with dignity.

Brian MacDonald
said

I think bringing in May would add a lot of intellect to the new government - way to go Mr. Dion - lets be done with the bully Harper

darren from toronto
said

I look forward to a western separation. Hopefully they will allow us like-minded people a chance out to settle out there,because it looks like this is the end of country.

Amy
said

This is democracy? How many people who voted NDP or Bloc actually knew that they were voting Liberal? I'm sure they would have reconsidered since most of Dions own party seems to think he has downs.

Heather
said

So I ask you this.....

What was the point of even voting in this election if Canadians didn't get a say anyway!? I am very afraid for our country.

Daryn
said

Michelle Lange,

Harper won the last election and should serve as Prime Minister. However, based on his behaviour, judgement has been called in to question. It seems that he scares more about partisan games than economic issues.

Dion, Layton and Duceppe; all lost in the last election. Moreover, they still have legal and democratic legitamcy, mainly because they were all recently relected to the house of commons and because our constitution allows other parties a chance to govern in the event that the current Prime Minister has lost the confidence of the house.

It sucks but the rules and prcedents are all there to allow a switch in government to happen.

duck
said

I think it is really sad that the opposition parties feel they need to take control. All Steven Harper needed to do was to provide some leadership on the economy. It does not take an expert to know if the US bails out the auto companies or any other companies to know where the jobs will go. Canada needs to look after itself. The Americans will only protect their own interests and forget canada.
Good luck to the coalition. If it does not work then we as an electorate can dump them in a few months time. Until then lets hope we can move ahead. Perhaps Harper should have talked to the opposition parties to plot a new direction. When we elected a minority government I think that was the message. Harper should listen to the electorate.

Norm in Novascotia
said

Casey for Cabinet. The longest serving Conservative MP untill Harper and his goons kicked him out. The only Independrnt MP in 90 years. Most honourable human in Parliment. Go for it Bill you got the Atlantic provinces cheering you on.

Al-BC
said

And they call this democracy? Someone please tell me how? This is nothing more than political opportunism. I would support the Prime Minister calling another election just so we can boot these clowns (Layton, Dion) out the door.

Cambob
said

This reminds me of that Figure skating fiasco where everyone got gold medals. There are no losers in Canada! Except the Evil, hidden agenda, war mongering, bush loving, sweater wearing Harper.

You know, the guy who was smart enough NOT to throw billions of dollars away until the Americans figure out what they are doing...

ReachWest
said

So May will be appointed to the Senate (WHY?) and may be given a Cabinet post in this abomination of a Coalition..Ludicrous and ridiculous!

If this stands - I predict nasty things for Canadian Federalism.

Dion and Layton are in the process of destroying the country.

Kathy in Alberta
said

I cannot believe there are people in this country who actually think this coalition will be a good thing for the country. The economic crash has already started and this so called coalition has not been granted power. God help us if the GG allows this to happen because our economy will crash for sure and more and more of us will be out of work because of it. If anyone thinks that the 3 amigos will do anything for the average working Canadian they are sadly mistaken. Get ready for a 2% increase in the GST and higher taxes for all except the rich and corporate Canada. If the GG will not allow this government to remain in power then I hope she has the god sense to call an election and let the people of this country truly decide who they want to govern but then again I thought that was what we did 6 weeks ago.

Mitch
said

This is a sad moment for all Canadians...why did we have this election 7 weeks ago anyway. Elect Stephen Harper 12 seats from Majority...then the opposition forms government.

The West wants out...I hear there's an arctic cold front heading for the east, shut off the oil and gas pipelines for annual maintenance until April.

Vangie Alexander
said

I'm interested in knowing if this arrangement was in the works before the election. Think about the dollars that were spent, the empty (as usual) promises that were made. I vote for who I think will do the job, no matter what party it is. Now my vote and all of Canadian voters should realize that how we vote, matters not.

Mary-Anne Brabander
said

Let's not make a total sham of this coalition. Ms May's party has not been elected; she was not elected. Parliament is not about wannabees. It's all about ruling and the proper process. A coalition would be right for the country at this time, but it should NOT include the green party. They should perhaps have and advisory role, but nothing else. Admitting Ms. May to the coalition would be a travesty.

Heather
said

Wasn't it Harper who hired a non-elected person to be in HIS cabinet? Hasn't every party that's been in power appointed people of their choosing to the Senate for whatever personal gain they got back? So what's wrong with Elizabeth May getting appointed to the Senate? That IS how it works, afterall.

Mike Webster, Mississauga
said

This gets worse all the time - now they want to bring in the leader of party that didn't win so much as a single seat? Shameful. Utterly shameful. What's next, the marijuana party? Oh, I forgot, they all joined the NDP!

Sandy in BC
said

I'm sorry but the Bloc is a separate interest party with no love for our country as a whole. Without their support for the coalition there would not be a majority.
Why on earth would we accept a coalition that requires the Bloc to succeed? Votes for the Bloc should not even count in an election as it is not a vote for Canada as a whole.

Yves
said

Mr Harper,

Please stand back and let them have a go a it. The first time that they don't aggree with eachother,THEN, when they want to climb on each other at any cost and kill the alliance, wich should be months OR weeks. You step back in with an election(with MAJORITY this time)and do your job the way it should be done. Opposition = LAME DUCK like their leader.

Alex (Toronto)
said

I agree, Elizabeth May would make a great Minister for the Environment.

I think it's obvious that the people calling for yet another election are Conservative supporters. There is no reason to ask voters the same question they were just asked a few weeks ago. The elected members of Parliament should be given the opportunity to represent their constituents, and if that means supporting a coalition instead of a minority government, that's up to the parliamentarians.

A preferential (Australian-style) ballot where voters rank the candidates 1-2-3 would more accurately reflect the views of voters. A first-past-the-post system breaks down and is unstable with more than two or three parties. The BQ would lose a few seats, but they don't care about seats. They'd be able to show they were among the top two choices of a larger proportion of the Quebec electorate. A preferential ballot would ensure that elected members of parliament were elected by a majority of voters in their ridings who offered them some degree of support, while also ensuring that parliamentarians were connected to their local ridings.

I doubt that western voters would choose to separate if they were offered the chance. But if were a choice between maintaining traditional Canadian values of compassion and caring for our fellows, expressed politically as universale health care and strong social programs, against the option of catering to an extreme right-wing agenda that would throw away what it means to be Canadian, I'd care more about the people and ideals of Canada than lines on the map. If the west wanted to go, I'd say let them go. Canada is founded on bilingualism and diversity, and people who don't like that should find another country to live in. Ontario needs Quebec more than it needs the west, if it came to that.

Denis
said

A coalition government is not a "coup". Look-up Wikipedia under coalition government, "Countries which often operate with coalition cabinets include: the Nordic countries, the Benelux countries, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Turkey, Israel, Pakistan and India.", and Canada was just added to the site.

George in Ottawa
said

Mr. Harper: Ask Madame Jean to prorogue Parliament. Send everyone home for Christmas with family. Convene a new session in January with a throne speech and a budget, and hopefully a wee bit of sanity will have returned to the house.

John - BC
said

We all know what democracy is, and we all know when it is being subverted. This is expected from the separatists, but SHAME on the the Liberals and NDP for their attempted power-grab.

May equates herself with the Green Party and thinks that SHE got 1 million votes. HAHAHA. Yet she couldn't win her own seat.

The West has had enough of this BS.

Tony
said

Harper brought this upon himself. "Stay the course"

Everyday I hear more and more of my friends and family losing their jobs. While big coporations still posting earning while they continue to lay off thousands of employees.

If you don't have 1 Million in your bank account Haper is not working for you.

A 2% GST Tax cuts are meaningless to the average Canadian.

That includes you all you from Alberta. Wait until oil prices reach a 10-year low and we'll see who will be voiting for Harper then.

Wait until your backyards are filled with toxic tailing ponds.

Thomas
said

She's unelected! Why should she be allowed in government?

Dave from Edmonton
said

This Ladies and Gentlemen is how our freedoms are lost not with a shot but with a sigh.
What gives Dion the right the right to undermine a govenment that has not even had an opportunity to present their budget?

Nothing will happen worldwide until Obama is in office so the budget timing is perfectly placed to work hand in hand with the US.

Dion, Layton, May are simply grabbing power. It's a coup clear and simple.

H. Mai
said

Ms. May said that Mr. Harper isn't doing enough for the economy. Why is it that just about every economist I've heard on the radio and television say Harper is approaching the situation properly. I'm studying economics at the University of Western Ontario, and both my professors think Harper is doing the right thing.

Ms. May said this isn't a power play. However, if the consensus among economists is Harper is doing the right thing, then what is the reason? The fact is this is a left-wing power play! She wants an unelected role in government. Also, the Greens and other parties want their publicly funded handouts.

To acquire this power they need the Bloc, and forming a coalition with the Bloc is a big mistake. Sure, they are not officially in the coalition, but they are the linch pin of this proposed government. They alone empower this coalition. The agreement they signed to keep him silent is neither legally nor constitutionally binding. Duceppe's power will be immense and he knows it, or else he wouldn't prop up a 'federalist' coalition. Anyone who thinks Duceppe will be an innocent bi-stander is completely obtuse.

May's desire to work with the Bloc is indicative of the character of the modern left in Canada. Say what you want about the Conservatives, they are now the only major party in Canada that doesn't consort with separatists to achieve their agenda.

Paul in Ottawa
said

When Borden put a coalition together, he went right to the polls and ran as a coalition. When King put together a coalition, he did it right after the election before Meighen was sworn in.

Dion tried to woo Canada but got slapped in the face, so now he is arranging a gang rape.

Harper won the election, he got MORE seats than before, not LESS like the Liberals, and MORE CANADIANS VOTED AGAINST DION THAN AGAINST HARPER.

The GG should issue a statement saying if the government falls, she will call an election. I bet they will all run scared if she does that, but I won't hold my breath.

Mark
said

Now we are going to give a free ride to someone who was defeated in the last election and don't even hold a seat in parliment? Ya, that's really democracy. Hey lets give all the defeated politicians a free ride. I have had enough of this joke, seperate the West from this gong show.

Stuart
said

I am not impressed!!! When I voted for the
Bloc at the last election, I did not vote for the Liberals or the NDP!!! Neither did I vote for Stephane Dion or Elizabeth May!!!Therefore In a possible upcoming election I will have no choice but to vote conservative (my second choice) so that my vote will not be "used" against me. Please Mario Laframboise (my deputy) try and change Mr. Duceppes mind.

David Patte
said

almost 10% of Canadians voted green. I'm pleased that May has asked her supporters to support the coalition. It is the democratically sound thing to do.

Now it looks like 4 political parties are all working together for the good of Canada.

The coalition has the confidence of the house, and the support of the majority of Canadians.

Lets get to work, where harper refused.

Jeff
said

I'm so DELIGHTED that the Liberals and the NDP are forming the coalition.

After all, only 30 plus percent of Canadian voted for Harper while 60 plus percent of Canadians voted AGAINST him.

na na na na, na na na na, hey hey hey GOODBYE!!!

gerald allard
said

well,voters who voted for steven harper can cry all they want,their saviour fail them&many others since he became prime minister,,as smart as he is,he's stupid can be,he was told to work with the opposition,on the night of victory he stated he would work with the opposition,did he or did not??he can even control his ministers,he's a dangerous individual,my way or the highway,well,he's going to pay dearly for being stubborn,yes harper did win the election,but,minority,why because do not trust him,only reason he won,because the liberals did not have a star candidate,also,because he lied to canadians,like he is now&yet people are still backing him,well,face the music,in hochey,if you don't produce,your replace or traded period.

Darryl
said

May gets a Senate seat? What a farce. All of the math is wrong!
The west needs to unite and separate from the east. Leave the east to their own doings and we can build a strong country of our own without any "banana republic" politics.

Jeff from Ontario
said

I agree with JD. Will the west please separate from Canada NOW!! I'm more sick of them than Quebec.

PrairieDog-Dean. R
said

It is obvious that a majority of Canadians are now speaking out against this in a big way. It's also obvious that this political abomination/coalition does not care for the better of Canada, but for their own "hidden agendas". Liz in cabinet? Separatists holding veto power, a PM that held only 26% of the vote, and on and on. I have thought long and hard about it...and Iam now supporting an independent Western Canada. I realize that many in the east are against this as well, but it is time for the four western provinces stand alone. There is one Liberal seat in Manitoba, one in Sask, none in Alberta and five in BC. Virtually no representation, so why be a part of it. A sad time for our great country.

Edward Garrett
said

Hi
What people in the west should do is send a party to ottawa, the same way quebec has done. If it is fair for quebec the same would have to ring true for our western friends. As far as miss May getting in the senate, we have seen nothing yet, from this gang of three. Waite if they get power. God help us.

Jackson
said

As much as this is legal and constitutional it is far from democratic. Do you really think a typical seperatist voter would really want to be affiliated with a national party, especially with dion/liberals of all people? And what precedent does this set for the future? There MUST be another election for this process to be democratic whether Canada is burned out from elections or not. Using the current election results does not represent the people of the country because that gives the "coalition party" 2-3 representives per riding to the pc's 1. At the moment all this is is a mutiny and borderline treason. These politicians are not looking out for the best interest of the country but only for themselves(ex. may demanding a cabinet post or senate position?) . In this situation people should not let their like/dislike of Harper skew their opinion and focus more on the democratic process. If this does go through u are putting too much strain on the country. Alienating Bloc voters, creating more east/west division(seperation not so far fetched), even more strain on economy(foreign investors hate political unrest- see the last two days on tsx), and a precedent of future abuse of our democratic system. If they want to be a coalition thats fine but let them run as a coalition in an election and let Canadians decide.

Iain MacGregor
said

I support wholeheartedly this Coalition Govt!

I think we are going to get a glimpse at what a Proportionally Represented House would work like. I like it!

The real Haper finally showed up in the House, and introduced anti-democratic sentiments in limiting the legal rights of unions to strike, and in trying to decimate the opposition to promote his dreams of a right-wing dynasty. He promised that he would make sure that Parliament was going to work for all Canadians this time, and then he starts to lob granades. And this while he still does not have a clear mandate.

God help Canada if this guy ever gets a majority

Let's also not forget that despite all the vitriolic accusations about the "Socialsts" getting into bed with the Separatists, he saw no problems in his doing that when it would have suited his purposes. Yes, we just voted...but once again at the behest of Steven, who saw an opportunity of grabbing a majority based on the polls.

Harper is the one that has created many of these crisies by making every vote a confidence issue. It worked in last Parliament, I guess not this time!

The last point I would like to make is about the good job the Cons have done in selling the idea that tax cuts are the best thing for Canadians.

TAX CUTS 0NLY BENEFIT THE RICHEST CANADIANS.

TAX CUTS MEAN CUTS IN PROGRAMS FOR ALL CANADIANS!

We have the richest Canadians getting richer, and the number of working poor increasing at an alarming rate.

Am I the only one who sees something morally wrong with this picture?

Disenfranchised in NS
said

Am I "waking up" to a bad dream? This candidate did not even win a seat in parliament & there is the possibility she could have some say in national affairs and, worse again, be well compensated. I am a person who has never missed a vote in any election (and have voted for a variety of parties) but this matter has finally convinced me that voting is basically a waste of my time. Bring on the Taliban.

JC in Edmonton
said

So the liberals are already handing out Senate seats. Glad to know that they plan to continue their long standing traditions of paying off people with our tax dollars. What has it been 24 hours? Already the gravy train is getting ready to run. I wonder how many other secret deals are in the works. Isn't this a secret agenda? If they are at all serious, take it to the polls as a coalition rather than this political mess. Nice wedge in regional politics. I don't think the west and areas outside of GTR and Quebec will easily forget this move.

Ian
said

To all those lecturing us on the legality of this coalition; it is just as legal for the PM to prorogue Parliament. If your interests are not just for those parties that were defeated last election your support for this political tactic should be strong as well.

Erik Larsen
said

I am a proud Canadian, always have been. But I, like many in Québec, have started to identify strongly with my provinces (AB/SK) and my region more strongly these past years.

If a referendum was held for "the West to separate", I would strongly consider voting "Yes", realizing indeed that it's a pretty fuzzy statement.

Michaelle Jean must recommend an election, as opposed to a Quebec-separatist dependent coalition.

If this coalition government flies, we are all doomed with respect to our personal finances, our government future fiscal picture, and our ability to sustain our country.

Bye bye, Canada. You were great while it lasted.

Shawn - Alberta
said

As an Albertan, I am furious with this. The coalition is only going to be looking out for whats best for Quebec and eastern Canada as they always do, knowing that the western provinces will fund their glutenous appetites. I am all for a western separation and Id like to see what these fools would do then. Whats the point of democracy if leaders can be kicked out when ever someone isnt happy.

Kel in Vancouver
said

Just because the coalition is 'technically allowed' doesn't mean that it is the right thing to do at this time. Anyone who thinks this coaliion came about since last Thursday is ignorant. This has been in the works for months. Uniting three parties with completely different views takes much longer than a weekend.
Why is it that politicans will only work weekends if it furthers their own agenda? Unbelievable!

John in Toronto
said

You Conservative supportors need to quit whining how this is Undemorcatic. For Steve-o to pass any legislation with or without a confidence needs support from the opposition some how or the bill fails. So in essence, Harper would need to make a deal of his own with at least one of the opposition parties, wouldn't he. What if he had to climb into bed with the Bloc to do things, are you OK with that???? If you are then it should be perfectly OK for the opposition to do the same thing in my eyes. Quit your whing and accept the fact that no one wants to work with Harper at the helm and that's not to say the opposition wouldn't work with the Conservatives with a different leader of the CPC. It's Harper that isn't trusted, not the CPC, so let's set that straight.

Jame Earshaw
said

How can this be an affront to democracy when it is the way our democracy is intended to work?

In a minority parliment, the Prime Minister must receive the confidence of the house, or he is no longer the Prim Minister.

And, as has been pointed out a few times, Harper himself received only 41,549 votes, from the people of Calgary West.

NO ONE ELSE IN THIS COUNTRY VOTED FOR HIM. Not on single solitary Canadian.

JK, London Ontario
said

The Ontario liberal government said today that they were working well with the federal government on helping with the auto industry. Harper's government was taking a steady, well thought out approach to this economic crisis which is exactly what we expected from them. Dion is doing all this just to get his chance to be PM. He will be a laughing stock.

Vince M
said

I have little doubt now with the sentiment in the West to the back room dealing for power in the East that Western separation has started for real.

Remember this week in history.

Donald Klyne Sandilands, Mb.
said

I am really disgusted with this Charade. So it does not surprise me to find that May has been invited to ride along on this wagon of Canadian political destruction!
This unholy trio who are bound to destroy our country, asked her in to make it look more legitimate.
I only hope that this debacle will somehow be avoided!

Susan in TO
said

What coalition of losers would be complete without May? She didn't win her riding.The Greens elected no MPs.But in the post democratic Canada of the Dion-Duceppe-Layton oligarchy, who needs to actually be elected to anything? So ends the once proud Liberal Party, reduced to servicing buffoons like Layton and Duceppe who have no chance of their own of every being entrusted with power.It will be put out of its misery when and if we again have an election in this country. You can count on it

Alex McKinnon
said

May received a million votes? What constituancy did she run in? This kind of braggadoccio is just what we DON'T need in politics.

D.M.
said

The Liberal Party is demonstrating a complete lack of respect for the electorate. Why should we support a party that can’t even tell us who their leader is going to be? In case you missed it - Mr. Dion lost the election a few weeks ago and now we are being asked to support him in his bid to form a coalition with a separatist party. This has nothing to do with the economy and everything to do with a power grab.

These actions will do nothing to promote unity. The Liberals and NDP have once again snubbed western Canadians by aligning with the Bloc.

These actions may result in a call for another election and the electorate will hold the Liberal Party and the NDP Party accountable for this nonsense.

Norman in Montreal
said

Lets see now, last spring,the Boston Bruins,Montreal Canadiens and Pittsburgh Penguins combined, scored more playoff goals than the Detroit Red Wings so I think it only fair that those three teams share the Stanley Cup between them. Four months in each city. Whadda you say????

Aaron, Vancouver
said

I am now a Western separatist. The Lib/NDP/BLOC party can go to hell. Let us say hi to birth of the nation state of Western Canada.

Neil in Oshawa
said

So it looks like we may have a Coalition Goverment that will "fix" the economy. My question to them is. How many billions of dollars will it take for Canada to prop up the Americam economy?
We do not have enough money to do it. And the current opposition is just fuelling the fire with their glass is empty mantra. Now is not the time for kneejerk reactions.
All of our leaders need to put all of Canada first!

Lori
said

Don't forget the 6, SIX, senate appointments for SEPARATISTS! What about our votes, what about our democracy. Western Separation can't come soon enough!

PhilipHauser, London
said

O come on let her take part in the debates what could it hurt? Anyone remember that stupid argument now?

Shame on these carpetbaggers. Contrary to left wing thought the Conservatives actually did win this election.

I say call another election to clear the people's choice. You get a coalition vote or a Harper vote winner take all.

Alex McKinnon
said

It may be legal, but not democratic. Dion was resoundingly rejected as a leader, and his party recieved its lowest percentage vote since Confederation. The BQ by definition is completely rejected outside of one province. The NDP has never obtained more than 20 percent of the vote, yet will get 25 percent of the cabinet posts through the back door. This manoeuvre is completely unacceptable and will lead to a far greater crisis down the road. I refer to Western alienation and how this will all play right into the hands of the separatists.

Marg, Richmond
said

WOW, another political opportunist wanting to share in the gravy train. It gets more bizzare by the minute. Let's all hope that some common sense will prevail and that our politicians can get back to the business of governing. By the way I am against any coalition that includes being propped up by a party that has no interest in the rest of Canada, and if the Liberals & NDP want to "team up" then have the guts to wait for another election and go on the ballot as a joint party.

C Wells
said

I can't believe any of this. The Canadian people voted and Harper was given a minority. I may not like him but he was the best of the worst. How dare Dion give Elizabeth May a senator seat when she didn't even win in her own riding. And giving Quebec more equalization (as promised by Dion) makes me utterly sick. Quebec received 847 miliion while Ontario received very little. I'm sick & tired of Quebec, Quebec, Quebec. With this coalition we'll have two from Quebec at the top and Duceppe will be holding the cards. Dangerous!!(Did we learn anything from the Sponsorship scandel???) Obviously not!

TagTeam
said

Heather wrote: What was the point of even voting in this election if Canadians didn't get a say anyway!?
-----------------------
The point was to elect an MP to represent your riding in Parliament. If you look closely, you'll find that he or she is still there. Sorry if he/she is not the person you voted for.

Sharon, 5th Generation Canadian
said

The majority of those elected will now take charge. Isn't that what real democracy is all about?

Mr. Harper called a snap election saying that parliament was dysfunctional when in reality it had co-operated.

Cost us a fortune only to bring him back in as another minorty government.

He decided not to play nice and the majority decided it had had enough. Good for them. Go coalition! May the majority rule!

Les in BC
said

I have always been a Canadian First but I now consider myself a Western Canadian. It is time for the West to stand up and seperate.

Darlene in Halifax
said

So here is the way to succeed in Canadian politics. Don't worry about selling yourself to the Canadian people or earning their vote, you don't need it. Just sell yourself to the other opposition parties. This is disgraceful.

Nancy
said

Let me guess, those who are so angry at Harper for not rushing to their financial rescue have been babysat by Buzz Hargrove for the past couple of decades. Welcome to the real world. There are no guarantees where jobs are concerned. The auto industry has no business being continually bailed out by the average tax payer. If our Company was in trouble I don't think the government would come running to the rescue our employees!

Shame on Dion, Layton and the Joker from Quebec for using the volatile emotions of the Canadian public during a time of uncertainty as leverage. Is this not considered part of the infamous "Shock Doctrine", better known as "Disaster Capitalism" SHAME, SHAME, SHAME. These guys are no better than Bush and his cronies! The country is in chaos and they are pushing through accords Canadians in their right minds would not accept.

Tara from Toronto
said

Stephen Harper's government is a Minority for a reason - a minority of Canadians voted for him. The Majority of Canadians voted for one of the other parties, who are now trying to step up and help our crumbling economy. Stephen Harper made it clear that he has no intention of helping the economy - he's more worried about making sure the NDP and Liberals cannot raise funds for campaigning in another election to help ensure he gets the majority he so desperately wants. Another election would cost millions and millions of tax payer dollars and I am pretty sure it will only result in another minority (maybe liberal, maybe conservative) government. And then what?
Give the coalition a chance - it is still democracy at work, as it is still the MP's that we the people voted for (and in this case - the ones the majority of the people voted for). Working together is the only thing that will save us in this fragile time, and Stephen Harper has proven that he's in it for himself, not Canadians.

Gary
said

Well who knows ... this circus may actually end up being a good thing in the end. If the coalition can set a precedent for non-parisanship, multiple parties working together, than it may well actually be worthwhile. Heck, if they can simply focus on governing it will be an improvement on what we have now.

Mark/Ontario
said

What is happening is actually treason and a coup with two socialist extreme left wing communist parties and a sepratist party that wants to rip this country apart and now put in another left wing unelected socialist in May.

The Democratic rights of all Canadians are being completely overridden and destroyed by a socialist communist uprising. Make no mistake the Liberal party is now communist and when there is an election will be decimated for this digraceful coup attempt.

The GG must call an election and let the Democratic will of Canadian people decide who will govern.

Johnny Canuck
said

This is nothing more then 3rd world socialist gutter politics. They couldn't win in a fair election, so they'll stage a political coup to gain power.

As far as I'm concerned this is treason. The military should speak up and announce that they will not allow this type of disgusting socialistic politics to occur in Canada.

Ryan
said

Green Party. I think you're pretty funny. How many elected do you have? Oh right, you're getting senate seats from hmmmm... the Liberal Party of Canada.

Traitors to Canada.

Alan
said

So May gets a senate seat and maybe a cabinet post for herself. The PQ in Quebec are rubbing their hands in glee over their new prospects as view of the Bloc support (redo the equalization grants etc).We're not sure what else was promised. The NDP... obviously cheques for everybody in the auto industry. I am not sure if this plays havoc with Mr McGuinty's negotiated support. Stay tuned and we'll see what other iou's there are.

mcd
said

The west should separate from Canada. This sentiment is growing. We would be so much better off without te rest of Canada given all of this garbage. Thanks alot NDP and Liberals. I guess I have the Bloc to thank.

Bill
said

This is what I wrote to my Member of Parliament.

Subject I'm MAD AS HELL

I am writing today as a constituent of your riding, hoping you will pass this on to the Liberals, NDP and Bloc. I am sick and tired of the Political bickering that is going on in Ottawa. The Canadians have elected a government to work for the people - not against. If you think that I will support this potential coup that the Liberals, NDP and Bloc are trying to put in place - you are wrong.

This political bickering that is going on in Ottawa is one more straw that will break the camel's back in this country's separation. I urge you, as my MP, to continue to lobby on behalf of Canadians to stop this coup, but do not bend over for these opposition parties. If it means we must have another election to bring in a majority government, then have Mr. Harper go to the people immediately for a new mandate vote. The passive people of Canada are now starting to get incensed and angry at their government, especially the opposition. I would suggest that if an election was called today, there would be even less NDP and Liberal Members of Parliament. I am also confused why we would even allow a party that is designed to separate from this country to even run, get rid of the Bloc as they are a provincial party only, not a federal party.

Paul
said

In reading many of the readers comments, I often see the phrase " Used to be a conservative " Mr. Harper tried ruling with an iron fist as did Mr Mulroney. History confirms Canada is no place for a dictator. Canadians are rightly accused as the home of nice people. Yes. I used to be a conservative too.

ditzz
said

What could MS May possibly add of value to the current debate?

She is sounding increasingly more and more like the flake she appears to be. Lets do a small reality check here. "I would be the only senator that received a million votes," she is reported here to have said. Yhe fact is in the 3008 election she received 12,620 in the riding of Central Nova where she lost to incumbent Peter McKay. While we're at it, the most recently elected senator, Bert Brown's of Alberta received 312041 of roughly 715000 votes cast in April of 2007.

Franco
said

As someone who has studied political science. There are some very ignorant people on this post. Parliament can work IF a minority government consults and compromises. That's what I voted for. In Ontario a Liberal/NDP coalition was one of the best governments ever (Peterson and Rae).

I voted Conservative and I am disgusted with the Economic Update - 6 weeks of planning for what - to introduce Bills and plans that had nothing to do with the Economy.

Mr. Harper, do all Canadians a favour and resign. You have made parliament toxic. You and your spin doctors will never see my vote again.

Vote or no vote, Canadians know the law and it applies to you too. For those Canadians that don't, it's time you stop being led by mistruths and read the Constitution that supercedes the Prime Minister, the Courts, The MP's and the Governor General.

MHB
said

Good for May!. All Canadians should unite behind the coallition government to save Canada from Mr. Harper and his fear mongering techniques!. I fully agree that Ms. May would be the best person as a minister for the environment.

Joanne
said

Oh please yes please DO add Ms. May to the Senate, for no good reason may I add...whether the Green Party supports the coalition or not should be of little concern- they are not an official party and they have no seats....This just keeps getting more and more bizzar...hey Layton and Dion- just for fun, I have 12 year old boy who wants to be the Prime Minister when he grows up, can you help him out?

Western Separation??
said

What's all this talk about western separation today? You Harper supporters out in the west sure are a bunch of crybabies.

Your dear leader Harper got into power by aligning with other parties to topple the government, and it's just fine for him to spearhead that kind of political move, but when other parties do the same to Harper, you throw your all your toys out of the pram and threaten to split from Canada.

Total double standard!

margo
said

My husband always says his vote doesn't count. This time I would agree with him. The three leaders want to stimulate the economy? Well they showed just what they could do when the TSX had the worst day on record, yesterday. Heaven help us!
(Sorry I forgot Dion's an athiest.

MM in Halifax
said

Before all of you Westerners go "preaching" separatism, stop and think how many "native" Westerners are currently living in Sask/Alberta (is there such a thing as a "native Westerner" other than the Aboriginal population?). All I know is that half of my friends from NS are living & working in Alberta these days. Anyone know the % of Canadians from "out East" living in Alberta compared to the overall population? Regardless, I just can't see any of the "Maritime imports" voting to separate from the rest of Canada where their parents and rest of their family still live...

Everyone needs to chill and see how this thing plays out...no? Oh, wait a sec, that was Harper's approach to the economy wasn't it? Just let that "invisible hand" sort everything out?

I don't know if a coalition is the right answer or not, but keep in mind that Harper also wrote a letter mentioning coalition to the GG while in Opposition. So, hmmmmm, let's see, it's OK for Harper to do it but not the other parties?? Pot...kettle...black? C'mon, give your head a shake you guys. Besides, forming a coalition government is not illegal anyway, it's allowed under our system...it's not a coup as some people are saying!

If you want to change the law to suit your needs, then we should also make some other changes as well, such as shifting to proportional representation, then the Greens would have a voice in government. I voted Green, along with a million other Canadians and yet, we do not have a voice in Parliament? That's injustice me thinks!!

This whole debacle just demonstrates that our system is flawed and needs an upgrade...let's start by making some fundamental changes to our Parliamentary system first I say...cheers everyone!!

Derek MacPhail
said

Let the Green/Liberals/NDP unite under one socialist banner and go head-to-head with the Conservatives in an election. Afterwards, the losing side can shut up for the next 4 years and everyone can get down to the business at hand.

Kirk Duff Castlegar
said

Western separation is just as ridiculous as Quebec separation. Being Canadian should not be about "getting your way or the highway". In the absense of a clear majority everything is fair game in terms of who forms the government. That's the reality. MP's should be more concerned about the reaction of the stock markets to what is happening in Ottawa assuming of course that any of them truly understand it themselves. Above all else we the consumer must not stop spending money as this drives everything else.

Michael Lowe
said

You guys out west whining about the current exciting developments should either "put up, or shut up". I don't want to come across as rude, but us Canadians are simply tired of hearing your incessant threats to leave confed. Face it, you guys couldn't survive without the rest of Canada, and this is all just a big act. Harper and his extreme right wing cabinet IS doing a horrible job of managing the economy right now, and if you can't see this, you must have your blinders on. I have worked for almost twenty proud years as a decal applicator at the GM plant here in Oshawa, and all around me people are worried due to Harper's policies and whether or not they will have a job next week, or how they will make their vehicle, home, and children's education payments should they lose these jobs. Myself, I have an almost half million dollar mortgage plus other expsenses to service each month, and should individuals such as myself lose our jobs this would be devastating. These jobs are critical to the livelyhood of our provincial economy, and if Harper and his extreme right wing followers can't see this, then they are blind. They must take action to ensure these valuable industries survive! Local businesses are also concerned about Harper's reckless behavoir, and they also say that his inaction is simply killing our industry. Please Canadians, take a stand against Stephen Harper and his reckless extreme right wing behavoir, and write the governmor general and tell her you support the hard working union members who are at risk because of his blindness, and right your local politicians and demand they put some sort action plan into effect.

Andy H
said

I am a life long Progressive Conservative who didn't vote for Harper. I don't think Harper has been very effective and he has been sorely lacking on the economy. The GST is a popular tax to cut but a poor economic choice. Cutting personal or business taxes is a positive economic step (which Harper didn't do).

The surplus is gone. Now Harper is discussing selling Crown assets to balance the budget. We have 3 continents in an economic downturn. The solution is for the CDN Gov't to spend $ to get the economy moving & to increase taxes on the wealthy. This is what saved the US economy during the Great Depression.

I can't say I like or trust a Liberal/Bloc/NDP coalition but at least they have offered an economic stimulus package. Harper has done nothing.

Elizabeth May's support means nothing as her party doesn't have a single seat.

PC Rpy
said

I am SO tired of the Bully Conservative Party trying to scare us all into toeing their line. The coalition may struggle, but at least they represent the 67% who did not vote for the Head Bully, Harper. I am appalled by Tory bullying tactics.I am "stunned" by Baird - who used the stunned word at least 6 times in a 2-minute interview on CTV Monday.

Kelly in Freddy
said

Like so many others I'm just angry at this whole thing! None of these "officials" have earned their pay cheques or my respect/trust. I'm just sick over what is happening to my country! Shame on all of them and Elizabeth May, you disappoint me the most. I thought you were different but the fact you are jumping on board and not setting yourself apart tells me you're just as bad.
Shame, shame.

Cal in Ottawa
said

Doesn't Ms May realise she has no role to play in the current political crisis? She has how many seats? Her party got how many votes? She is a disgrace.

Andy H
said

Marc you say sometimes people vote wrong. It is their right to vote how they want.

The Coalition won't last 6 months. Then we will be back at the polls and Harper will win a majority. The Liberals were dumb to oppose Harper when they lack a leader. Can you imagine if Bob Rae wins the Liberal leadership & ends up leading the coalition as PM?

Nasty Nate
said

Michelle Lange... Canadians didn't elect the government, they elected the parliament. The majority of Canadians DIDN'T vote for Big Daddy Harper!

And as for solving the economic crisis... Harper isn't and that is the reason the Coalition is being formed!

Thanks for coming out though...

Matt
said

All of the political issues aside, the fact that people jump to the conclusion that the only way to deal with issues in this country is to threaten to break up this great country we have ALL come to take forgranted sickens me!

Come on people, wake up, we are some of the luckest people on earth, lets rememeber we live in THE best country on earth no matter what goes on politically!

Frank Buchan (Vauxhall, Alberta by way of Ontario)
said

By national popular vote percentages (from Elections Canada), using coalition logic:

62% of people voted against CPC -- therefore the coalition has right of governance.

Yet, 77% voted against the LPC; 83% voted against the NDP; 90% voted against the BQ; 93% voted against the Green Party; and 99% voted against the independents.

So, by the same fallacious logic, the CPC was the least rejected -- so what does that mean? Does that give them the right to govern unchecked? Apparently not.

The fact is this coalition, now handing out patronage promises, is about to reject a democratically elected minority and then try to stack the odds against future loses. We will end up with a PM who was personally rejected outside his riding by 74% of the electorate who bothered to vote. Then we will be saddled by a PM who the LPC chooses, never having had him face the electorate. Meanwhile, they pork-barrel out 30+ billion to unnamed economic purposes, before any other nation has declared a budget to deal with this.

This is not democracy, folks, it is a left-shaded view of autocracy in action. It isn't relevant who any of us voted for, because by all counts the most-rejected losers of the bunch will now be governing? Nonsense.

And installing an unelected senator or cabinet post to pander to 7% of the popular vote is wrong; just as it was wrong for Harper to appoint the same. May could not convince a single riding her party mattered enough.

Finally,this coalition seems to be supported by the BQ, who while they have every right to work for their constituents, must have been promised something spectacular given that they held the effective balance of power anyhow against the CPC government. What was it?

E.Harrison
said

The formation of a coalition government that reflects by far the majority of electoral votes in the recent election is the most democratic event that Canada has seen, perhaps ever. I applaud those who are willing to put their particular partisan views aside to work with others for the future of our country. This unfortunately has not been what Mr. Harper has done, and why he has created this crisis.

Ron
said

She never won a seat but think she should be a cabinet minister. Are you kidding me. The Liberals have gone crazy. If the public wanted her, they would have elected her.

Frank in Huntsville
said

Harper is the best leader, as polls have shown. He was doing something positive for the economy by cutting tax money to political parties. e also made it clear that he was waiting to see what Obama does in order to work togther with the U.S. (Canada can not do much to affect the world situation on it's own.) The opposition agreed to work together for the good of the country. They have not kept their word and should not be allowed to hijack our government. Let's stay focused on the real situation. The majority support Harper as Prime Minister and he has proven that he CAN run a minority government successfully. Otherwise we MUST have another election. (Are we allowing the seperatists to the country?? Liberals/ NDP / greens do not have more seats than Tories!!)

Kurtis in TO
said

I voted liberal, and I am against this coalition government. I hear all this chant about unite the Left??? Well I’m sorry Liberals are supposed to be a center party which means some of the supports lean left and some right... As I lean Right I would now switch my vote to the Conservatives in the next election as I believe many will do. And as for the coalition represents the will of the people.... Would a Conservative Liberal coalition not be more repersentive of the people???

Remember they did get the most votes. I believe if an election were called now that we know this “hiding agenda” The conservatives would get their majority. I guess Dion was only kidding when he said “I would never form a coalition with the NDP!” He tricked me into believing he was honest... Which raises another point. Why can they say anything they want to get elected and ignore in once in office? Where is the Accountability?

A Guenther - BC
said

May represents the voice of one million people. I don't know how many Canadians are eligible to vote out of 30 million total but I'll hazard a guess that's enough of a percentage for her to deserve some respect and the ability to express an opinion. Idealogically that's what the coalition is all about. Congratulations to Dion for extending his hand.

Jack
said

We may be witnessing the breakup of the country based on cultural/political differences. I would say that Maritime Canada would form one block and support the West's desires.

May not be good for some but remember who supported the placement of offshore hydrocarbons in your hands and also supports through equalization. Perhaps the "have nots" should be culled. Maybe even Danny would support this or he would once NL has to start paying equalization.

As for Ms May having any say in the government either current or what may be a coalition? None other than as a strict sideline advisor. She has no seat in the current House and neither do any of her members. She is a non-entity at this time.

Matthew BC
said

I thought the Liberal's coalition was supposed to be about making Canada's economy better, not creating more back room deals, and other promises. What an outrage. So much for good leadership

K
said

I 100% agree that all of this is just a power grab between 4 leaders who should all be kicked out of their partys! NO ONE is truly thinking of the greater good of Canada and that is very clear despite all thier PR "spinning" of the situation.
What makes me really sad though is all this western separatist talk! Born in raised in Ontario, I LOVE THE WEST! So I would just like to say if on the slim chance that it ever did happen im moving to Alberta!

Carol
said

I approve of the coalition! Get rid of Harper and the his gang of sad bullies.

David C (Barrhaven, Ont.)
said

This so called coalition gov't to be will fix nothing. It will plunge Canada into huge deficits!
An election should be held with a clear choice. The coalition versus the Consrvative party. At least we would get a majority government.

Kay in S. W. Ont
said

I think that the opposition parties are insane if they think this coalition idea of theirs is a good idea.

For those who wish to sign a petition, the link is: canadians4democry.ca

Graeme
said

This is democracy at work - Canadians voted more opposition MP's in than Conservative MP's - that means that if the opposition MP's can find a way to work together, then they should be given the chance to exercise their fairly elected majority. Most Canadians did NOT vote for Stephen Harper! His bluff was called, now he pays the price for his arrogance.

Rod
said

Unbelievable, now we are adding un-elected people to the public gravey train. Where do we all sign up Jack, you are the most able and qualified to lead us in this regard. The village of idiots is getting bigger all the time. The only sane and credible thing to do is call an election so we can decide who will lead the country, our choice not back room deals.

Stephen Gretton
said

I express my opinion in the following email.

To Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean and other interested parties:

We appreciate your role in running Canada. I have been deeply disappointed with the unnecessary turmoil created by late attempts at forming a coalition government. It would be greatly appreciated if all politicians and those in power would work together cooperatively to lead us through the current problems. As I see it, a coalition, if there was to be one, should have been formed immediately after the last election or much better yet before the last election and made public during the time leading up to the election. The people of Canada were given the opportunity to vote for parties, not a coalition. If and when confidence is lost in a government, I believe that an election should be held so that the politicians of Canada can make known what they offer and the people of Canada can decide with their votes who they want to run the country.

Sincerely,

Stephen Gretton

Oakville, ON

mark
said

When will this "60% of voters voted against Harper" crap end? What percent voted for Dion? Could it be less than 60%? Hmmm....

Note: 0% voted coalition

Mai-britt Gingras
said

Unbelievable!!! This attempt by the Liberal, NDP, Bloc and Green parties to undermine the democratic process. The election did not turn out as they expected. Rather than ask why, they are circling their wagons to oust Harper???. This behavior highlights and has brought bullying, to a new low.

Jim
said

James, Harper had a win in a minority situation. The four other elction losers are trying to save their slush funds.

They, the stooges do not have a plan and are in bed with a party thats main goal in life is to seperate from Canada.

I say take the four stooges and those like minded folks that do not like it in Canada and move now.

CALL AN ELECTION.

ABC wasn't on my voting ballot
said

I frankly think this is ingenious on Harper's part. Cause the opposition to bring down parlament. Then when they destroy Canada with their self serving pursuits. Get the majority your party wants for years to come.
I look forward to reading just one comment that wasn't written by a liberal/Conservative/NDP party member and then cut and pasted by their rank and file.

Brian
said

"I would be the only senator that received a million votes,", says May.

Ah, no. May only got 12,000 votes, so she's a bit off.

As for their argument that the majority of Canadians voted for these other parties, that's when you add up the other parties' individual totals. This coalition got 0% of the votes in the last election. So claiming that this coalition represents what the majority of Canadians voted for is a straight out lie. Go into an election as a Bloc-Liberal-NDP-Green coalition and we'll see what Canadians want. And from everything I am reading and hearing from Canadians, the Conservatives would get the biggest majority in history.

K
said

I am appalled at this coalition government idea. This is the worst thing I have ever heard. Time to restructure our political process if this is what its going to come to. Apparently the people have no power, so its time to take it back!

RJJ
said

Wow. The Liberals aren't even in power yet but they're already handing out patronage appointments. Unbelievable.

Jason Daniel Baker, Toronto
said

A senate seat for May and David Orchard, Buzz Hargrove etc.

Dion is being coy about Elizabeth May and how they have collaborated.

They double-teamed Harper during the leaders debates.

CMQ
said

The "What party?" No seriously, what party? They never had a seat, so how would they have a say.

With the level of organization behind this whole idea, this was cooked up long before parliment ever got back together. All I see on each of their faces is a smirk. The last thing we need is a scheme. I hope the GG calls another eletion so we, the people can have a say instead of a bunch of power hungry gluttons who will throw aside all party belief to gain power. I want a government that stands for what it believes and represents the people they serve, not spineless backroom knifers.

This may be legal but it is defiantely poor politics. Funny thing is though, when there's blood the wolves gather whether they are from the same pack or not. I wonder how much they battered to the bloc to get their support.

I grew up in Quebec and know firsthand the rhetoric and uncertainty the separtists can bring.

I just cannot begin to say how disappointed I am at this whole affair.

Dale
said

If there ever was a reason to reject proportional representation this mess should nail it shut. Gee wouldn't it be nice to have some Greens added to this mix to really add to the mix..NOT..My response is the 2 parties that receive the most votes get funded, the rest are on their own, end of this pizza parliament where everyone loses. Wait maybe this isn't Canadian though, somebody might actually have to get off their butts to earn support.

Rob in Sackville, NB
said

I support the Coalition. And I also support the opportunity for those that voted for May in the last election to see what a crass opportunist ego-maniac she REALLY is.

JT
said

Harper made a political blunder. He should step down. With that said, this coalition is a complete joke and an embarrassment to all Canadians. They have shown to us they are just power-hungry they are if they're willing to bargain with the separatist Bloc!! Very sad indeed.

Who is Ms. May?
said

Last I checked,there is no GREEN party member in the house and Ms. May didn't win her seat. Greedy and green. Lovely

Jim K
said

Why is this important, they have no seats.

No Place for you Eliz - Toronto
said

Elizabeth May - You have no seat in the House of Commons - SHUT UP.

You fought hard to get into the televised debate and didn't get you anywhere. You should be hiding now instead of pulling another stupid stun on Canadians. We are tired of you not accomplishing anything. You threw your support to the Liberals at the Election and didn't help either yourself or the Liberals

PhilipHauser, London
said

Tara from Toronto, you really need to hope there is another election so you can get your name on the ballot. You speak like a true politician when you say that only a minority of the nation voted Conservative. That is true but your logic nullifies three majority governments for Jean Chretien.

In fact the last prime minister to hold the title undpisputed majority leader would be Brian Mulroney. Before him it was a guy named Diefenbacher.

In fact the last forty years show more than 30 years or false majorities by the libs.

What is really happening is that the opposition is saying we played a hockey game, the Conservatives scored two goals while we only had one. However, we win because we took more shots.

This is wrong. It is not illegal and it is not beyond the bounds of a parliamentary system. That doesn't make it right and it is not just wrong it is foul with rot.

Glen from Hamilton
said

Well I believe no one has brought up the fact that the "MAJORITY" of Canada did not vote Conservative. So the forming of this coalition of which is made by parties elected by the "MAJORITY" of Canadians is technically as democratic as any election.
though i don't feel good about joining with the Bloc...
But though they will be a majority government, there will still be opposition so there is no absolute power. I commend this coalition

Carleen Kay
said

Who cares... one free day of advertising for the Green Party, et al...

Cool heads will prevail and the Governor General will send us back to the polls.

We are, afterall, an intelligent nation.

Bruce Vancouver
said

Who keeps putting a microphone in front of Elizabeth May?

Llsaro
said

Be it Elizabeth May, Stephane Dion, Jack Layton or the separatist ~ if your supporters wanted you to lead or represent our country badly enough, they would've spoken louder at the polls!
As a taxpayer - I don't want any of those four individuals reaching any deeper into my pocket to support any one particular sector of society. Why should there be billions handed out to the auto industry and the foresty when the fisheries has floundered and other industries too?
The only way these three clowns and the bimbo are going to support any industry with billions of dollars is by robbing the average Joe.
At least let "Joe" have a vote on who's reaching into his pockets.

Tim from Calgary
said

Just what a big surprise there! After May worked with Dion in the last election. Her idiotic comment about the environment being more important than jobs shows you how completely unsuited she is for politics.

Alex in Vancouver
said

May has no business being involved in this in anyway. None of her Green Party members even got one seat.

The Bloc hates Canada and will always do whatever it takes to ruin this country, they can not be included in the this, they should not be allowed to be part of the Federal level of Canada in anyway.

This is why so many of the left-wing support STV, they want all the power, by any means. Next May VOTE NO ON ELECTION REFORM PEOPLE or the coalition will be the only type of government we will ever get, self-interest, unbalanced, and full of debt.

claude mury
said

I am absolutely positive that the support of the Green Party MPs will be indispensable to the coalition of the guy resigning, and he who is willing to crawl into bed with the other fellow who 'wants to be prime minister but was unable to do the job of leader of the opposition.

John R. McIntee
said

Dion and Layton lost. Harper, albeit not the most charismatic, won. Layton and Dion are waving a massive deficit at us, trying to win the support of those who have been most affected by the crisis. Quebec stands to lose the most in this fiasco, and Canada, with the most STABLE economic situation on the planet, now is viewed by the rest of the world with bewilderment as we move from caution to crazy. Harper isn't the warmest, fuzziest kind of guy, but the idea of at least waiting until the Americans stabilize is in fact a prudent approach. And sadly, if there were in fact a viable Western Separatist movement, they'd have my vote. Stability trumps frenzy every time, and Dion and Layton are in full frenzy mode - trying to take by force that which was denied them.

StandOnGaurd4Thee
said

Of course Elizabeth May supports a coalition. She didn't even win a seat in the election, and now she's being offered one as a carrot. No mystery here.

Rick in BC
said

Lizzy May took her axe
And gave the oil patch 40 whacks
When she saw what she had done
She gave the economy 41

Of course, if anyone thinks the idea of Elizabeth May added to Jack Layton's hands on Canada's economy is going to inspire confidence in investors and industry, I'd love to hear their argument.

Sas - Digby
said

It still amazes me that people are 'disgusted' by the forming of a coalition, but would just let Stephen Harper go ahead. Yes, Stephen Harper won the elections, however, he won with a MINORITY. this means the MAJORITY of Canadians did NOT vote for Stephen Harper. Stephen Harper, as prime minister, has the obligations to do what is best for ALL Canadians, and as such should be working together with the opposition parties. He has not done so, leaving the opposition with no other option than to stand up to him. Now who should you be disgusted with?

A coalition would at least represent the votes of the majority of voters. It should have been Stephen Harper working together with other parties, bu he blew his chance. Now others are taking over, as we cannot afford a prime minister who does not listen to the opposotion - an opposition representing the majority of Canadians.

GW Russell
said

It's been mind-boggling to look over some of the reader feedback comments posted on this website re: a potential coalition government. I would never have guessed that so few Canadians had such a flimsy grasp of the mechanisms and principles of their own democracy.

How can anyone claim the movement of the majority of legally elected members of Parliament is undemocratic, while they simultaneously defend the right of an isolated minority of MPs to govern? Ridiculous! Hopefully this new coalition, having apparently set their major differences aside, can enact the will of the majority of Canadians they represent and we can get a sitting government that actually reflects the interests of the people who live in this country.

Fed-up in the West
said

EVERYONE, please read MICHAEL LOWE's comments above.

"Not to be rude", but why does a decal applicator have a half million mortgage??

Mr. Harper is not FAR RIGHT WING, he is simply fiscally responsible. And all those who believe they are entitled to wealth should learn fiscal responsibility.

Open your eyes... You will not be able to afford your home if the Liberals have their way... by the way, how much did the RED BOOK from the 90's cost Chretien?

Harper, drag your loser butt out of the way.
said

Parliament has work to do.

Robert M
said

So May is willing to be a Senator or a cabinet minister. She is displaying her "privileged"attitude that is so typical of a Liberal. Why doesn"t she just quit this charade and come out as the Liberal she is.

Msakel
said

Elizabeth May is by far one of the most intelligent, well-spoken and visionary leaders in the country.

It is most unfortunate that Herr Harper, our very own "Chavez without the charisma factor", has been allowed to do his backyard bullying without interference up to now. He is a pathetically narrow-minded, ideologically rigid small mind whose views run antithetical to the majority of progressive Canadians of all parties. He plays to his 10% base of loyal neocons whose mantra is "cut taxes and children's fundding".

Harper is an incompetent unqualified parliamentary dictator who must go in order for the patient called Canada to survive the heavy bleeding on the financial operating table.

Frank ,Kingston Ontario
said

This is a political mistake for the Green Party. They would have been smarter to stay on the sidelines. I hope there is no political payoff for their support of the Coalition

Mark
said

I just listened to May's outrageous communist remarks and her garbage that Canadians agree with this coup, which based on polls, radio call in shows, internet & anyone I have spoken to is simply not true. The Majority of Canadians are against this socialist communist coup. In any event May has no seats/say in parliament as per the Canadian democratic vote. May is a pure far left socialist, combative, undemocratic and her comment about rolling tanks onto the hill really demonstrate how out to lunch she is and Dion would hand her a socialist freebie cabinet post in Dions new Banana republic, CANADA.

GG, please let's go back to the polls and let the Canadian people decide who will govern the peoples Canada in a democratic fashion. The new Coalition communist socialist thugs or the conservatives and let's see who wins a majority and either way people would then accept the will of a democratic federal vote. Only the communists won't agree to anything democratic because it is not in there nature to allow a democratic election because they know the Canadian public is outraged and disgusted and will punish them at the polls.

trev in ab
said

I thought it would be sometime before we heard from the greens again. C'mon Liz. Can't step down either and accept the fact you have no voice in Canadian politics. At least not im my house. Who are you to get press? The media folk should just ignore her and her grandstanding. Senator Liz in waiting? Keep waiting honey. Meanwhile, git to the packing and keep your mouth shut.

J G
said

Well, I'd support the coalition if there was the possibility of getting a free ride in the senate. I mean honestly, she wasn't even elected, so how is this democratic?

Connie
said

Wow - too bad the Rhinoceros party isn't still around. They could throw their support into the coalition as well, to add some credibility to the whole situation.
This play for power is a mockery of our system - the Conservatives won the election and 3 losers should not be permitted to run the country.

Bill Pesklevits
said

What is happening here is Parlimentary democracy in its truest, best, and most elegant form. We do not, nor have we ever, elected a federal government in Canada. We elect MP's (we elect a Parliament). Usually, the political party that wins the most seats, then potition the Governor General to form a government. The MP's (ALL of them, from ALL parties) then govern; by discussion, debate, and then by voting on the issues at hand.

The lack of understanding and misrepresentation of how our democracy works, by voters, the media, and by many politicians, is both sad and discouraging. Where this misrepresentation is generated by politicians, it is reprehensible and manifestly dishonest.

I heard someone on the news last night, say that the minority was trying to grasp power. In fact, what is happening is exactly the opposite. Fifety three plus percent (a majority) of elected Canadian MP's are seeking to co-operate and form a representative coalition government in Canada.

A minority of MP's (less than 47%, elected by less than 38% of the electorate) is desperatly trying to present the argument that this is not right.

HELLO!!!!
This is "exactly" how a parlimentary democracy was intended to function.

This truly is a demonstration of democratic excellence.

CTV.ca Special

Coalition FAQ

Changing governments without an election. Can they do this?

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Watch highlights from a rowdy day of question period in the House of Commons.

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