Which Harper are we getting?

It would seem we are seeing a transformation during the election of 2008.  And unfortunately it is one that just helps perpetuate the image of the sterotypical politician.  Mr. Harper, the mask has lifted and you are simply just another politician who is looking to hold onto his job.

First it came the prerequisite throwing around of billions of dollars before the election is called.  Seems to me you chastized Mr. Martin during the last election for the same tactics (At least Martin had a huge surplus at the time).  Now lets take a look at what has happened during the infant stages of this election. 

Excise Tax Reduction

This announcement is nothing but a election campaign stunt.  It is absurdly short-sighted, does nothing to address the real issue of having a sector completely reliant on the price of fuel, and does nothing but pass the buck.  Coming from a government who espouses virtues such as paying down the debt as a long term strategy for Canada, there is clearly only one reason you pulled this stunt.  To get votes and  so save your behind.

Afghanistan

My how far have we come from the first time you dropped into Afghanistan with your fishing vest.  You wanted us in Afghanistan, if you could of, you would have had Canada in Iraq (but you will never admit it).    You were so eager to show that Canada could get bloody.

Then

“And there may be some who want to cut and run.
But cutting and running is not your way.
It’s not my way.”

If you would like to hear Mr. Harper’s words click here.

Now

“Harper said a set pullout date for Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan was necessary to ensure the success of the mission.“

 Low and behold, 2008 rolls around and here you are advising the country that Canada will withdrawl by 2011.  Now don’t get me wrong, it is ignorant to vilifiy a person if they change their mind.  Respect should be given to someone who has a change of opinion if it is based on rational thought and study of the available information.  That certainly is one virtue of a true leader.  Unfortunately Mr. Harper’s decision seems to smack of election opportunism.  If he truly felt this way, he could have mentioned this any number of times before this election.  Or better yet, he did not have to go through the charade of negotiating the extension of the mission.  But of course, it should be understood why he was employing that tactic.  To neutralize any issues Mr. Dion hopes to use against you.  On that note, well played.

As a side note, it would appear this latest revelation proves parliament was not quite as disfunctional as described, if Mr Harper did in fact agree with the opposition in regards to a pull out strategy.

The election is young and there will sure to be more suprises from all the parties involved, but it is disappointing to see the same old tactics incorporated by a man who first campaigned as someone who would be above the typical Ottawa behaviour and someone who would stick to the ideals.   As the election moves forward, would it be to much to ask if Mr. Harper could categorize each of his election promises under one of the following headings: ‘We will cut the GST’ or ‘We will not tax income trusts’.