The Canadian political landscape has shifted again.
And today, Primer Minister Stephen Harper’s surprise declaration that Quebec is a nation, however vague, is set to pay big dividends in the province.
With the resignation of Parti Quebecois leader Andre Boisclair, and the imminent departure of Bloc Quebecois leader Gilles Duceppe to fill the provincial leadership void, Harper’s chances of nailing a majority have increased exponentially.
Asked about developments among the separatist ranks, Harper said he’d watch “with interest.”
No doubt.
Without Duceppe at the helm, the separatist Bloc is going to bleed votes.
Where are those voters going to go?
To Liberal Stephane Dion, who drafted the federal clarity act?
Or to Harper, who said Quebec is a nation?
As soon as Duceppe jumps ship, which he is almost guaranteed to do, Harper’s support in Quebec will spike.
And Harper will call an election.
Barring another political shift, he’s likely to win. (RM)