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December 01, 2008 at 6:26:14 PM
Craig (Toronto)
It is extremely disappointing to see these politicians exploit parliamentary procedure to undermine the existing government for their own political and personal gain. If these three parties had the openness, honesty and integrity to campaign together with the intention of forming a coaltion government and let the Canadian voters elect them on this basis, it would be a different story. This coaltion seems very contrived and underhanded in the way that it has formed and I can't help but feel as a Canadian citizen that I am witnessing the democratic electoral process being subverted.

December 01, 2008 at 6:28:28 PM
Kyle
I CANNOT BELIEVE THIS ANARCHY! THIS BETRAYAL OF THE CANADIAN PEOPLE!

I am so angry! The people elected a Conservative Government...THE PEOPLE! I myself voted NDP, but I will NEVER vote for NDP again! Such a betrayal join with the Bloc and Dion's Liberals...I cannot believe this!!!

Why even bother voting again??!! If 3 guys who didn't get what they want can override the Canadian people's decision WHY SHOULD WE EVEN VOTE???

Today I am ASHAMED TO BE CANADIAN!

This is stuff you see in less civilized coutries...

December 01, 2008 at 6:29:51 PM
Ashleigh
First, i am sad to hear people say that their vote didn't count or they are not going to vote again. Above all else that makes us Canadian and people fought hard for that right for us so please keep voting. As for the coalition government, the conservatives won the most "votes" and therefore should lead our country. The idea of the others joining with the BLOC is disgusting. And as for taking away the right to strike, I work in a job where I can't strike so other's should get used to it as well.

December 01, 2008 at 6:48:19 PM
sable
Harper has a minority government. That means that whenever he brings a confidence motion forward, he needs to have the support of at least one other party. He gambled on the fact that we just had an election and it is too soon to go back to the polls, to put something through he knew all 3 parties would object to.

We don't need a gambler for a Prime Minister. We need a responsible adult who will do his part to make Parliament work. Now, no one can trust Harper.

December 01, 2008 at 6:49:17 PM
Elizabeth Jackson
Things are not going well, I am home marker. As ignored in standard formulations of economic output, such as GDP or employment figures.We need tax rebates to low- and middle-income CDN taxpayers,
similar to what the U.S. did. If the current government can not do this. I believe a coalition government is necessary.

December 01, 2008 at 6:54:58 PM
Doug
Why does Harper have to be so partisan all of the time?

I don't like the idea of the Bloc in this, but it is nice to see parties wrk together for once.

I hope Harper is taking notes

December 01, 2008 at 6:56:33 PM
Jack
Kudos to KYLE.Its A Disgrace that someone like Dion will get to run MY COUNTRY when He Can not even Speak the ENGLISH language,Let alone be in BED with the BLOC who REALLY do not care about CANADA anyway.I To Am ASHAMED To Be CANADIAN Today.May GOD BLESS Us ALL.

December 01, 2008 at 7:12:52 PM
John Axbury
This is the greatest thing to happen since confederation. I can't wait to see Mr. Harper getting evicted from 24 Sussex! Coalition all the way!!!

December 01, 2008 at 7:19:22 PM
Shawn
It's hard to believe that this wasn't part of a plan once the final vote was counted - I just don't think anyone realized it could have happened so fast.

I personally would rather go back to the polls and vote again than have Stephane Dion lead our Country. Why would the Canadian public want Dion as PM when his own party has shown they don't have confidence in him as they have already planned a leadership review.

What a terrible day to be Canadian.

December 01, 2008 at 7:26:01 PM
Jocelyn Martin
I would like to know if this is why Dion hid for a week after his defeat.........organizing his plan to bring down the Conservatives that the Canadians Elected.
What is the point of voting when a man who was put to shame in the election can end up as Prime Minister. This certainly dosen't give the Canadian tax payer a lot of trust in the way the Country is being run with our money.....and obviously our vote dosen't count. We're sure looking like a bunch of "yahoos" to other countries....including the U.S. as Barack Obama sets his cabinet and will have everything in place before being sworn in....Organization, something our government has never shown.
Thanking you in advance for your time.

December 01, 2008 at 7:26:41 PM
Paul B
This is a disgrace. We as Canadians spoke as to who we wanted running the country. Its another sad day in Canada. Once again, all about money...Parties should have to raise their own funds...I go to work six days a week to raise funds for my family. Personally, I'm tired of giving them out over stupid stuff like this. CANADA NEEDS A NEW PARTY MORE IN TOUCH WITH THE EVERYDAY CANADIAN !!

December 01, 2008 at 7:28:32 PM
Cliff
The nature of politics is partisan...and those who claim that Harper is being overly partisan are not being realistic.
No party has been more partisan then the Liberal Party of Canada. It's easy to constantly criticize, but they have yet to suggest one concrete economic solution. Why...because they have no concrete policies that Canadians would accept as proven in the lsat election.
Is this not the same party that tried to dissuade Canadians to vote against the Conservatives in 2006 claiming they would crawl into bed with the seperatists...and now we have the LPC after having 74% of Canadians vote against them wanting to form a government a mere (6) weeks after the Conservatives received a stronger mandate from the Canadian people...despite tens of millions of dollars being spent by the (4) opposition parties trying to demonize Harper...without success.
NOW...since their partisan scare tactics didn't fool Canadians...and Dion's promise never to form a coalition...they will now try to steal power with the same coalition that he promised he would never form...with one change...the approval of those who want to break up the country.
And...finally is this the same Dion that said he spoke the truth in both languages better the Harper...now being caught in a lie in an attempt to steal power...and the opposition talks of partisanship...

December 01, 2008 at 7:44:13 PM
kt4444
We knew about the economic crisis, and we chose Harper to lead us through it.

This is nothing but a bogus power-grab by the Liberals and NDP, who have shown us today put their own need for power and public money above the will of those they are supposed to represent, and above the values of Canada in joining with the separatist bloc.

Get active everyone. Mail the governor general and protest this coup. Check facebook and the internet - there are protest rallies being organized for this Saturday across Canada. Stand up for democracy!

Karl
Calgary, AB

December 01, 2008 at 7:44:14 PM
Fabrice
It is sad to see the reaction of all individuals opposing the change. I voted for the conservatives, and I certainly do regret doing so. To date, they have not done anything for our economy.
As mentioned by other individuals, do the math, a coalition party represents all of Canada put together, not the minority government which only represents those that have come out to vote.

December 01, 2008 at 7:48:16 PM
Patrick
This is the most exciting political time in our recent history!

Harper may have a minority "dysfunctional" government but he has simply failed the Canadian public.

Kudos to all who are banding against his tyrannical flop!

December 01, 2008 at 7:49:35 PM
Matthew Tran-Adams, Toronto
This coalition makes a lot of sense. Only 37% of people voted for the Conservative government. 26% of people voted for the Liberals and 18% for the NDP . . . combined that makes 44%. If you add the support of the Bloc Quebecois it totals to 54%! This is the kind of collaboration that we need during the deficit . . . similar to what we're seeing with Obama south of the border. With such low support, Harper should have tried to collaborate more with the opposition . . . maybe even adding opposition members to his cabinet!

December 01, 2008 at 7:51:41 PM
Louise Fribnace
To Elizabeth Jackson: you say things are hard and you think the coalition will help. Harper was trying to save money wherever he could including fudning of political parties including the Conservatives. That was not the only thing he suggested but the uproar from the Opposition MPs was so strong about the funding that we forgot the rest of the belt tightening measures Harper suggested. If the oppostion didn't want to tighten their belts, you can bet the only belts that will be tighten will be yours! They crave power and can't see that common sense should prevail. And don't think for a second that they are thinking about you in this whole mess. If they were they would accept Harper's retreat on the funding of political parties (which I wish he wouldn't have done). He has done many other measures already to save the economy, but we need to act with a cool head and see what the US will do, so efforts can be coordinated. But the coalition wants to act emotionally and wrecklessly. We need a tax revolt in this country.

December 01, 2008 at 7:53:25 PM
solina
The average family in Canada is struggling immensely and Harper has done nothing so far to help those families and it does not look like he has an effective plan either.
It would be very interesting to see what these parties can do for the majority of Canadians. I think a lot of people do not understand what kind of Gov we have in this country and how it works. Canadians did not elect Harper alone, it was a mix of parties we elected, 3 of those parties have united to represent the majority of the voters.
The Governor General will have a historic decision to make. Drastic times call for drastic measures!

December 01, 2008 at 7:56:14 PM
Eli Xenos
Duceppe, Layton and Dion are all experienced politicians, with a lot of good people behind them. They'll do fine, and Canadians, even Quebecers, will be happy they have stepped up to the plate.

December 01, 2008 at 8:00:19 PM
Malcolm Moffat
I did not vote for Leighton in the election. I do not want Leighton in any part of Canadian government. Yet Dione seems determined to try and grab power for himself despite his own statements a few weeks ago that he would never work with Leighton. This is a total betrayal. I will never ever vote liberal again so long as Dione (or Leighton) are associated with the party.

Much as it pains me the Liberal Party only won 77 seats. The NDP only won 37. Where does that give them the right take over power with the aid of the Bloc who only care about Quebec.

Michaëlle Jean, this is despicable!!!!

December 01, 2008 at 8:02:17 PM
Wayne
It seems that democracy in Canada is dead.

December 01, 2008 at 8:02:45 PM
reid
This coup by the socialists and seperatists makes me sick to my stomach.Only a traitor to our great country would sign a pact with the seperatists in order to grab power from a democratically elected government one month after an election.The RCMP should be throwing Dion in jail,and Layton's ass should be put there next!

December 01, 2008 at 8:04:24 PM
Chris Attersley
II have been a conservative supporter sense the first red book promise of riding the country of the GST...

Thanks to this, I bought my five-year membership for the Tory's. I will never vote Liberal, or NDP.

Prime Minister Harper should do anything, and I mean anything to stay in power. The will of the people was him to lead the country not Dion, not Layton. This is nothing more then the opposition parties stealing power from a parliament that hasn't even been alive for more then a month, and the Liberal, NDP, and hasn't even been given a chance. The solution to the problems plaguing the country isn’t to through 30 Billion $ out to the wolves.

How many times will the Liberals cheat this country of money and we take it, and ask to be screwed more! The Liberals, and NDP are nothing more then traitors to legitimate democracy, and the dominion to which they are suppose to serve above then own selfish interests! Getting in bed with separatists shows what they stand for, especially that the "Natural Governing Party" as they so put it after being rejected by voters will take power without any regard for the message sent to them in the last election.

December 01, 2008 at 8:07:52 PM
Rog
I will never vote again. What a fantastic way to highlight the complete uselessness of voting. Whoever you vote for can always be overturned by a coalition of the losers.

December 01, 2008 at 8:09:26 PM
claudio
To be Prime Minister you have to speak both official languages properly which Mr. Dion can't do.

I'm disgusted the Liberals and NDP would side with the Bloc just to get power and I'm also ashamed to be Canadian with how these 3 parties have ambushed power.

Why did we spend $300 million dollars and vote which resulted in a Tory win ... does the will of the people mean nothing to these power hungry wanna bees.

I would urge all Canadians to with hold taxes until these mental midgets come to their senses.

December 01, 2008 at 8:09:34 PM
Ontario Taxpayer
It is a sad day in Canada. I understand that this is not illegal, but my lord is it ever unethical! This once again goes to prove that the "natural ruling party" will do anything to get power. Even working with a separatist party whose whole purpose is the destruction of Canada....SHAME! I hope Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean see's through this blatant power grab and sends us back to the polls. Let the people decide who will run the country, not the seedy backroom political old boys!

December 01, 2008 at 8:09:53 PM
Misko
Majority of Canadians didn't vote for a coalition, majority of Canadians voted from Conservatives which is why Conservatives won the election. To say that majority was against Harper is ridiculous.
If you want to go in that direction, then you might as well say that an even larger majority was against Liberals and yet even LARGER majority against NDP according to the polls during the last election.
People don't vote for 3 parties at once, that's why when you go to a polling station you vote for ONE party.
The ONE party that had the most votes won the election and now those that LOST the election are ganging up, stepping over millions of voters, stepping over democracy and taking the government into their own hands without being elected by the people.

It doesn't matter who you voted for during the election, if you have even the slightest bit of respect and love for democracy and freedom, you will admit that what is going on right now is a disaster and a serious hit at democracy and freedoms Canada enjoys.

I voted for Liberals this election and now after seeing this, I regret it very much.

December 01, 2008 at 8:11:34 PM
Tiger Pai Hu Seng
What a sad day for Canada when whining crybabies like Dion and Leighton have to pull a stunt like this for a leadership grab. What is worse is their willingness to do so with the sovereign Bloc Party of Quebec whose only wish is to divide this great nation. What this tells me is that they have their own personal agendas to follow with no regard for Canada or the people of Canada. The voters made it very clear last election when Dion received even less seats than previously, and rather than accept defeat at the hands of the Canadian tax payers, he is instead behind a conniving scheme to over throw our government, which is some circles could be viewed as treason. I can only pray that our Governor's General has the good sense to see right through this and deny the Liberal/NDP attempt at a power grab. If we must go the polls again, then fine. At least the choice of government will be left to the people of Canada rather than a bunch of greedy, sniveling cowards like Dion and Leighton.

December 01, 2008 at 8:15:38 PM
Manboy
A coalition government reflecting the will of a majority of Canadians is much more democratic that a minority party ruling like it has a majority. You conservatives should give your head a shake. Wake up. You can't have your little dictatorship forever.

December 01, 2008 at 8:15:45 PM
Ann, Whitby
If the opposition parties will not tighten their belts, how can they expect others to do so? When Mr. Harper suggested less funding for politicians and a decrease in their pay, I thought that at last someone was leading. But no, these liberals can't stand anyone governing but themselves. They are arrogant and foolish. There must be something we can do? I feel totally betrayed and that this will always happen if the Liberals aren't voted in. "Will someone rid me of these meddlesome politicians". They will ruin Canada just as Bob Rae did to Ontario.

December 01, 2008 at 8:22:30 PM
Musings
Has anyone ever noticed that whenever the Conservatives bring in something that's good for the people, the opposition always rejects it. Could it be that only the Conservatives care for the people of Canada?

December 01, 2008 at 8:22:42 PM
michael
The reason I voted Conservative, was because I believe in them. I did not alway vote Conservative, but think that Steven Haper has a good cabinet. I don't believe we should bailing out the auto industry without knowing what plan the industry has for making changes. And we should not be throwing money into the economy without a clear and well thought out plan, other wise we will just keep throwing money out again and again. As for Jack Layton, I have never trusted him, and it seems my instincts were correct. And I do not want Dion in power even for a moment, I find he is weak and would not be a good representative for Canada.
The Canadian people spent millions of our dollars voting in the Conservatives, Steven Harper into power and now NDP & the Liberial are making a deal with a party thats sole purpose is to divide this country, it is like they are making a deal with the devil to have power. And it is like they're saying to us the people that we don't give a crap what you think or say we want power and we will take it by whatever means possible.

December 01, 2008 at 8:26:31 PM
Deborah
Everyone should write the Govenor General and as her not to allow this. I just did.

December 01, 2008 at 8:29:54 PM
Lee (Brampton)
I am disgusted in our politions making a mockery of our country's democracy. I voted for Harper and wether he does a bad job or a good job my vote should count. I cant believe this type of thing is happening during an economic crisis like we are having. This is a joke !! Good luck with your takeover Dion your going to run this country deep into the ground. And when it happens you will again blame Harper. I cant believe this, I have never spoke my mind about anything before relating to politics but this is so disgusting that I had to express my views in some way.

Shame on you NDP, Liberals, Bloc.

December 01, 2008 at 8:32:39 PM
Ever
Canada is becoming a "Third World Country" with this coalition...The coalition Party should be ashamed of themselves.

December 01, 2008 at 8:34:43 PM
sharron
We voted for Steven Harper and the Liberals and NDP are trying to get into power, by having a meeting with the Party Quebecois and would not hear Steven Harpers ideas. I think their ideas are harmful for the economy. and I would not trust Stephen Dion with power for a second.

This is my 9 year old's opinion.

December 01, 2008 at 8:38:38 PM
Glen
When leadership does not lead, it is time to get new leadership. A coalition is exactly the right thing to do in order to deal effectively with the economic crisis. The current Conservative government is simply too slow in doing what's needed for the people, we need decisive action. . . they are simply too conservative or "old school" for the times.

December 01, 2008 at 8:40:25 PM
Grace from Toronto
I think it is an absolute disgrace that the defeated Liberals & NDP are trying to topple the present government. I believe we had an election and the present Conservative party won. They should be given a chance to govern. I wonder what planet the Liberals & NDP live on. I thought we were a democracy NOT a dictatorship????

December 01, 2008 at 8:43:12 PM
ex-liberal
I voted Liberals, but it was last time!!!! Next time I'll vote Conservative!!! Such a shame, my party with communists and seperatists :-(

December 01, 2008 at 8:46:08 PM
Ron, Oshawa, ON
This is not right. Canada gave the Conservatives a strong minority government. This coalition is an ambomination of politics.

Not to even get into the fact that Dion led the Liberals to the worst popular vote in Liberal history and in essence gave him the boot. So the Liberal Party continues with electing a leader. How does the possibility of Bob Rae leading this country sound? Ontario is STILL paying for his 'economic stimulus' package.

The G20 summit, all countries agreed that Canada was in the best position to weather the storm. Econimic spending and huge bailouts are NOT the way to go. That will lead us deeper into debt and the entire country will pay for it, well beyond our lives and into our children's lives.

Time to step back and do some thinking.

December 01, 2008 at 8:48:46 PM
Mark/Oshawa
This is a coup by a bunch of Far Left Wing socialists trying to seize power after they were defeated just 8 weeks ago in a legal and democratic election.

Now it's Damn the Canadian People, damn democracy. We may as well live in a Banana Republic. Dion cant speak English and his own party wants him out and the Canadian people soundly rejected his Green Shaft Carbon tax grab that he will now try to ram down Canadians throats. Now these socialist thieves will tax everyone to pay for their supposed 30 billion stimulus plan. Write and e-mail the GG asking her to reject the coalition and send Canadians to the polls again where hopefully the Canadian people will punish these un-democratic socialist power grabbers for not respecting the will of the democratic process and their employer, the Canadian People.

December 01, 2008 at 8:51:06 PM
Kamran D
Hi I Think Mr. Harper needs to tighten up his belt and start working hard as a team which is very Important, there is a strong saying United we stand and divided we fall Mr. Harper should get united with one of other parties in order to succeed and this is what the other 3 leaders of opposition have done. I think it is time for change and why not accept the change and see what the result is. I support the idea as Mr Harper has done nothing to protect the economy from going down instated he has always said thru out the campaign that Canada is not going to suffer, well why are things changing now and why is he not trying to prevent it from happening. So let the coalition wok together and make things happened for a better Canada

December 01, 2008 at 8:54:37 PM
Marci
This is the first time I have publicly voiced my opinion. This unholy trio is a stain on Canada, an embarrassment and, if it weren't so serious, would bring to mind the three stooges.

The people have voted; Mr. Harper is the Prime Minister. For a change this country has a Prime Minister who is focused on running the country, on the welfare of all Canadian people not just the left and the unions.

Unlike Mr. Martin who registered his ships in Panama so he wouldn't pay taxes to Canada; unlike Mr. Layton who had his mother in public housing depriving some needy person of a home; unlike Mr. Dion who was soundly rejected by Canadian voters and unlike Mr. Duceppe, whose party's mandate is to separate from Canada.

How absolutely disgusting you three are. A disgrace to this country.

No, to bailing out the auto industry, no to Dion as prime minster, no to Layton and no to Duceppe.

December 01, 2008 at 8:54:59 PM
Jay
Interesting to see all the scripted posts here. In our system we don't elect a Prime Minister, like the Americans elect their president. We elect our local MP and the Parliament decides who will be the Prime Minister by demonstrating confidence. In the case of a minority government, the Prime Minister must ensure he/she has the confidence of the opposition in order to govern. Harper made a huge miscalculation in his economic update by alienating all the opposition parties at once. He no longer has the confidence of Parliament so he must go. If some other MP can demonstrate the he/she can gain the confidence of Parliament, they can ask the GG to let him/her form a government. Nothing undemocratic about that. It's how the system was designed to work. In fact, this is exactly what Harper tried to do when Martin had a minority. What's sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.

December 01, 2008 at 8:57:28 PM
jeff toronto
i am 52 years old and have always voted liberal even after the sponsership scandel and even though i disagreed with the carbon tax but if my party sides with separatists and socialists in this unethical ill concived coalition never again will i vote liberal!shame on you dion if you want power have another election and run as a coalition

December 01, 2008 at 8:58:31 PM
David
This is the Parliamentry system in action. 62% of the electorate voted for someone other than the Conservatives. This is the way to unite the Centre just like the Right united and left out the Progressives. In this economic crisis which has not yet crested we need FDR New Deal thinking not government shringage but government innovation.

December 01, 2008 at 8:59:28 PM
PS
We voted and elected the conservative government. What right do the opposition parties have to tell us that our votes do not now count and that they will take over the duly elected government. Bring on an election and lets give the conservatives a majority so this type of gamesmanship is discontinued. If Dion wants to be PM, run again and let us decide as we just did.

December 01, 2008 at 9:03:26 PM
Alan
Canadian should mark this day as a black day in Canadian history, a day that democracy was crushed by a few who just want to prove a point. This coalition party is just one degree shy of a military coup, shame on you so called Liberals.

December 01, 2008 at 9:04:38 PM
Sahra
Hey Jack do you know anything about Canada? Did you just insult Stephan Dion because he speaks english with a french accent? Are you a horrible racist or what? Last time I checked Canada was founded by both British and French settlers. French is an official language of the country as well.

I suggest you go get your facts checked and stop spewwing your anti French racist propaganda on the CP24 comment page.

FRENCH IS IMPORTANT TO CANADA. I THINK A LOT OF PEOPLE FORGET THAT. Racists like you can go back to wherever you or your ancestors immigrated here from.

December 01, 2008 at 9:06:56 PM
Michael Riolo
I really wonder if some of the people on this board really have any idea about what is going on. I read a comment from someone the other day on a related topic and he/she discussed our constitution. Really? You want to comment on our government, meanwhile you think we have a constitution?

Anyways this is a joke, this should through the country into complete and utter outrage. We "voted" for harper, not for the other three, this destroys the democratic process in this country and throws the citizens vote out the window. I will never vote again in this country. Democracy? I dont think so.

December 01, 2008 at 9:08:14 PM
Don
I voted Conservative in a Manitoba riding. Since the Conservatives didn't win a majority I fully expected them to reach out and compromise with all the other parties. Even if the Conservatives had won a majority I would expect them to respect Canadians who didn't vote Conservative. Instead the first thing Harper does is try to pile-drive the opposition into bankruptcy, a vile insult to all my countrymen who didn't vote Conservative. Harper has proven one final time he is not a Prime Minister for all Canadians. A Harper majority is truly frightening because there is no telling what that tyrant might do if he had the power.

December 01, 2008 at 9:10:02 PM
Bianca
These 3 parties are fighting for money and power only! They don't think about the country and its people even for a sec! Dion has to be ashamed of his actions. Instead of doing coalition for his sake he must go to help the chosen Prime Minister to save the country.

I never will vote for any of those shameless parties ever!

December 01, 2008 at 9:13:21 PM
Mark
I can't help but laugh when uneducated people who listen to slanted media gibberish try to say that our economy is bad. Compare it to the rest of the industrialized world and you'll find that by in large, BECAUSE of Harper and his government the past years, we are in a better position than other countries.

It's what's called a "recession" for those of you who are to inept to understand basic economics; In fact, it's a GLOBAL recession and the fact that we aren't in worse shape than we are right now says something good about Harper as it is.

PS. The coalition wants to dump billions into the economy to bailout companies that simply weren't financially sound to begin with. Taxpayers should NOT be on the hook for mismanagement of a private company. Moreover, take a look south of the border - After over a trillion dollars(more than 2 TIMES the Canadian debt) has been pumped into their economy, they are no better off.

I can actually say that if this revolting act goes through, I will be disgusted to be Canadian. There are third world countries that have a more sound example of democracy than this "country", now.

December 01, 2008 at 9:14:17 PM
MARK
I am proud to be Canadian at this point. The Harper government has proven itself ineffective to lead us and we have the ability to oust it. Americans had to suffer through years of a lousy president long after they mistakenly voted him in. We should be thankful for a system that enables the removal of an incompetent government.

December 01, 2008 at 9:21:30 PM
Sam
This so called "coalition" by the Liberals and NDP with the support of the Bloc remind us of communist regimes and third world countries. It's a sad day for democracy in Canada. It's obvious that this disgraceful act has been in the planning for some time. Two parties: the liberals and NDP which lost the most recent election,teaming up with a party which opposes the existence of Canada to form a "new government".

December 01, 2008 at 9:22:00 PM
Anthony
During a radio interview today, Bob Rae insinuated that he would not necessarily hold an election over the next two years if he were to eventually run the coalition. Regardless of the outcome of this tumultuous situation - we the Canadian people, must be allowed to vote on the outcome.

December 01, 2008 at 9:22:13 PM
Mark from Calgary
I am discusted, we will now have the 3 stooges, Larry,Curly, and Moe. Moe being Vladamir Lenin re-incarnated. Larry being Duceepe. Curly being Dion.
What a joke and a shame for the parlament of Canada. Lets have another election, it may cost another 300,000 million, still a drop in the bucket if we let these 3 losers get the money bag. Your money and mine.

December 01, 2008 at 9:24:10 PM
Sokwon Lee
I am opposed to the opposition parties' forming a coalition government in this manner. If they they want to bring down the government then let's have an election. Go to the people. Let the people choose. I will vote Conservative again. I can accept another election(even though we just had one) but not this.

December 01, 2008 at 9:35:45 PM
Paul Pryce
For those who think that the Bloc/ NDP and Liberals recieved more votes than the conservatives would be wrong. In the election you picked one party not three and given the option of the three, how many would choose that now? How many liberals and NDPers are keen on a separate Quebec?

December 01, 2008 at 9:37:18 PM
John Luft
If this coalition of lunatics is accepted by the GG, it will be the end of Canada. Canadians outside of the golden triangle are getting sick of being treated like colonies by the Imperalists in Ottawa.

Bizarre to the extreme that Dion now thinks he has some God given right to become the Prime Minister because Traitor Layton and Marxist Separatist Duceppe says he does but yet a full 75% of the Canadian electorate only a few weeks ago specifically said Dion was not suited for the job. He isn't. So much for democracy. So much for Layton siding with the party that wants to tear the country apart. He will get his wish....only the split will be much different than he envisions.

December 01, 2008 at 9:46:20 PM
JD NDP LOL
April Fools in December ? Nahhh can`t be . Dion....NDP ...The Bloc ....shamefull , children behave better. Canada is a counrty with now leader as seen from the world with Dion . A man who couldn`t even run his party , lost more seats and now Prime Minister ??? A joke to the world leaders .Lets have another election and spend another 300million down the drain...what a farce # stooges at the helm ...I will vote Conservative as always

December 01, 2008 at 9:49:11 PM
Andre
I can't begin to describe how disgusted I am with the back room deal that took place here. To think that the NDP and Liberals have made a deal with the Bloc to run this country is horrifying. What's even more frightening is the thought of Stephane Dion as Prime Minister. An absolute disregard for the Canadian voters. I am a Liberal, but will not vote for this party again. Stephen Harper for Majority.

December 01, 2008 at 9:52:03 PM
Cons
This is insane. We JUST had an election. No single party had more votes than the conservatives. Teaming up is like cheating. Dion is not able to lead a country, especially in these sensitive economic times. Didn't the opposition say they wanted to work with the conservatives without partisan politics in order to fix the economic issues? This "coalition" is taking the focus away from the real problems Canada is facing. Harper is doing a fine job, and caution is necessary when dealing with this crisis.

I also think a "bail-out" would not be supported by a lot of Canadians. After these companies, who will be next? Would the government be so keen to give handouts to McDonalds or Walmart if they were facing bankruptcy? They are private corporations...not the taxpayer's responsibility! Lets look at the unions who force these companies to pay their employees far too much money for the jobs they are doing.

December 01, 2008 at 9:57:32 PM
No lib ndp bloc
I have been reading the comments posted and its so nice to see most of us agree ...This is a FARCE. Dion as leader withe the NDP and The Bloc . Shameful.
Its a sad day for Canada when 3 parties cant get what they want and vote themselves in .

December 01, 2008 at 10:16:02 PM
Greg
Good. This is our parliamentary system at it's finest.

This is how minority government works.

It's a constitutional right to form the government with the most seats, and the NDP, Bloc and Liberals outnumber the Tories, end of story.

Like it or not, that is how parliament works, and I happen to like it and I have voted Tory my whole life and always will. Still, when you don't address the current financial crisis and instead focus on the poison pill for other parties, Harper deserves in everyway these events.

He bought this ticket on his own, I only hope the Tory party can recover as most certainly Harper never will.

It's his end. Sadly.

December 01, 2008 at 10:18:42 PM
APM
Harper came from a party that talked of separation, he wrote the Alberta Firewall letter, he gave a speech to an american trade group insulting Canada and canadians. What goes round comes round, he does not want to address Canada's economic issue because he wasted the surplus the liberal's left him, he shaved 2% off the GST whoopee it helped the rich while the poor is still over taxed. Yeah I'm mad I did not want a sepratist as our prime minister for the last 3 years.

December 02, 2008 at 10:40:57 PM
John Maxim
This is Sick! Canada is about to be hi-jacked by Dion (who destroyed the liberals with their worst result since confederation), Jackass Layton (who wants to be-friend the Taliban)and Dion who wants to Axe Canada to pieces. Lets go back to the polls & give Harper the Majority He truely needs to steer us through these tough times. This all started b/c Harper wanted to save the tax payer 30 million a year (money that could be redirected back into our troubled economy). Harper needs our support from this modern day coup d'etat!

December 02, 2008 at 10:54:43 PM
George S
I certainly don't want the Three Stooges running my country. Shame to the three of you for trying to destroy true Canadian Democracy

December 02, 2008 at 11:06:01 PM
Mark Doidge
The new coalition is a transparent power grab by sore losers and it fly’s in the face of the sprit of democracy. The opposition parties have ganged-up in their backroom deal, to thwart the will of the people. The Governor General should call a spade a spade and send a strong message that our votes do count and that the will of the people cannot be confiscated.

December 02, 2008 at 11:09:36 PM
Ryan
So Dion found a way to become PM without winning the election. He has been the worst candidate the Liberals have had in years and you are going to tell me he is leading our country with the seperatists? Dark day for Canada.

100bucks say that if an election is had because of this, the Conservatives win a majority.

December 02, 2008 at 11:37:49 PM
sjj5607
This is nothing more than desparation on the part of Dion, what I can't believe is that the Liberals are going along with it... I know they want power, but really... To join with the NDP, who's party under Layton has gone further left than I ever imagined possible, and on top of that, join in whatever way with the sepratist bloc? What kind of secret, not on paper agreement did they come to? That's what scares me the most. I never would have expected this from the liberals, and as such I am about to join the Conservative party and never again even consider the Liberals...

December 02, 2008 at 11:50:07 PM
Salim Kanji Toronto
We elected a Minority Government and Harper wants to run it like he has the Majority!I think this is abnormal.

DEmocracy in action:
Especially in the critical moment in History (Economical Meltdown), If the majority of the ELECTED members of the parliament, agree to run the country after the non-confidence vote, than the true spirit of democracy is upheld!!

December 02, 2008 at 12:05:15 AM
people's voice
Great! I think it is about time for these politicians to doing their show in the parliament, let them be and let see what is next. U never know may be; we as Canadian citizen, will benetfit from these political crsis?

December 02, 2008 at 1:07:47 AM
Klaudia Seitz
I'm almost getting the impression that we're living in a third world country where military generals topple governments as a form of election.
The Tories were elected by the people in an election. To topple this elected government is anything but democratic. Dion and Layton are simply power hungry and can't accept defeat. If a budget is not to their liking too bad! Maybe this should be dealt with as the European countries deal with difficult issues and that would be a referendum.

December 02, 2008 at 1:10:10 AM
Larry(Toronto)
I went to the U.S for the weekend bragging about how proud i was to be Canadian until i came home and heard this disgrace. Just horrible. As i looked back to the previous days before the election the other so called leaders ganged up on Mr. Harper during all debates and speeches. Guess we should have seen this coming. Just appalled.

December 02, 2008 at 2:17:18 AM
sam hui

We, the undersigned, write to you during this time of economic crisis to urge that you set aside all partisan considerations in favour of decisive action to help Canadians who are suffering and whose livelihoods are in jeopardy.

At this critical moment, a coalition government would be the most capable of delivering the kind of stewardship the economy needs, and the least likely to put partisan interests ahead of responsible government.

December 02, 2008 at 3:06:50 AM
JOE BLOGGINS
CAN YOU GET ANY MORE SELF-SERVING THAN THE LIBERALS, THE NDP AND THE BLOC???????????

THIS INSANE COUP DE ETAT IS RIGHT OUT TO LUNCH

I AM A CURRENT SERVING CANADIAN SOLDIER AND I WILL NOT FOLLOW THE ORDERS OF THIS DISGUSTING COALITION, THIS MOCKERY OF A GOVERNMENT SHOULD IT BE

December 02, 2008 at 3:25:29 AM
Andrew
Why did I bother voting?

What these politicians are doing is undermining the democratic process. They select as leader a lackey imbecile called Stephane Dion who suffered the worst defeat ever just 6 weeks ago and was expected to resign the next day and now they make him Prime Minister. This is outrageous!

If this coup is allowed to proceed by the Governor General without another election than I will never vote again.

December 02, 2008 at 3:46:22 AM
jason
are you guys really that stupid ??? harper pulled a fast one.. he knew about the recession.. if there was an election today he would lose.. but also only 40% voted... i guarenntee you the rest 60% of the country would not vote conservative .. HARPER IS EVIL.. we need him out at any cost PERIOD

December 02, 2008 at 4:29:48 AM
S.Lee
"Elizabeth Jackson
Things are not going well, I am home marker. As ignored in standard formulations of economic output, such as GDP or employment figures.
We need tax rebates to low- and middle-income CDN taxpayers,
similar to what the U.S. did. If the current government can not do this. I believe a coalition government is necessary."

Our Conservative government during the 39th Parliament has passed tax cuts for low and middle income taxpayers, children's benefits for low and middle income families, Please call the local Conservative MP's office nearest to you who will supply you with the information.

December 02, 2008 at 4:32:17 AM
S.Lee
Patrick
"This is the most exciting political time in our recent history!

Harper may have a minority "dysfunctional" government but he has simply failed the Canadian public.

Kudos to all who are banding against his tyrannical flop!"

Yes, I agreed it is some respect it is the most exciting political time but our country could do without it at this point in time.

In all fairness, the oppositions shared and created the "Dysfunction" Plenty of blame to go around.

December 02, 2008 at 5:01:10 AM
S.Lee
Fabrice
"It is sad to see the reaction of all individuals opposing the change. I voted for the conservatives, and I certainly do regret doing so. To date, they have not done anything for our economy.
As mentioned by other individuals, do the math, a coalition party represents all of Canada put together, not the minority government which only represents those that have come out to vote."

How sad. Not living up to your own conviction. Curious! How did you arrive at a decision who to vote for. Issues, policies and values of your MP I hope. Should I be fearful for the survival of our democratic system.

December 02, 2008 at 7:09:05 AM
Helen T
I have read all the comments...what no one seems to realize is that no vote ws taken in parliament so therefore the conservative government was not defeated.

This is a blatant grab of power by 3 parties who did not want to lose their tax subsidity. Let ordinary Caadians suffer..but not politicians. The Conservative Party would have lost the most money under this plan. Wake up Canada. The only ONE thing the 3 power hungry grabbers are interested in is their self perservation even at the cost of the country!!

December 02, 2008 at 7:42:58 AM
Adam (Toronto)
I'd say forget the whole voting process clearly it doesn't matter and is very costly. We should take a flip of the coin, draw straws or "I am think of a number between 1 and 10 the closest gets to be primeminister" approach to solving this problem in parliment. It would perfectly compliment how serious these men take the democratic process.

December 02, 2008 at 7:57:31 AM
Johnson Kasukurthy
It is very unfortunate that we in Canada have to be forced to accept a coalition Government being forced on us. Especially by Stephan Dion who is an utter failure as the liberal party leader, who was on his way out, now trying to become a Prime minister via the back door. And Jack Layton, who will never be Prime Minister in his life time, trying to mess up things by joining with the liberals. Well, it is clear that what is on the forefront in the minds of these politicians is "Power" and not the people of Canada, and the current economic situation. In the event that they topple the Government, I hope that my fellow Canadians would keep this in mind when the next elections come around and send a clear message to all parties that we want "Clean" politics and not "third world - banana republic style" politics - that has no place in a our beloved Country.

December 02, 2008 at 8:11:33 AM
...
All Canadians should sign:

http://www.canadians4democracy.ca/

We do not live in some backwoods country where we allow these type of shenanigans to occur!

December 02, 2008 at 8:11:33 AM
...
All Canadians should sign:

http://www.canadians4democracy.ca/

We do not live in some backwoods country where we allow these type of shenanigans to occur!

December 02, 2008 at 8:37:13 AM
Manny
This is total abuse of the parliamentary democracy and this should never be accepted.

December 02, 2008 at 8:41:30 AM
Michael Richards, Whitby
Canadians should find this idea of a coalition Government to run this country at such a critical time in our history, as absolutely ridiculous. I have to say, if this is allowed to happen in this country, then we deserve what we get out of this...it will be a definite and complete disaster. After regaining a reasonable measure of respect from the rest of the world since Harper has been Prime Minister, we're now conveying to the world that our our politicians are power grabbers and complete idiots.

December 02, 2008 at 8:52:31 AM
M.Caron, Bolton ON.
I cant believe this is happening. The people voted to have Stephen Harper run this country. The other partys had there chance. We didnt want them then and we do not want them now.How can we stop this?

December 02, 2008 at 9:29:08 AM
Dino
How can three different parties with three different agenda's run the country. In this mix we have one party that does not have national links to the country ( Canadian unity should bea key). Dion does not have the confidence of his own party, 6 weeks ago we elected the government, the liberals had the lowest result, Dion stated after that defeat he would resign, now he asking to run the country. This looks more like a power grab, are these 3 parties asking for turmoil. All four parties should come to a resolution without an election or coalition. I think the Canadian public is a little tired of this.

December 02, 2008 at 9:29:54 AM
seymour sooley
Canadians voted the conservates in just 2 months ago.They made it clear they did not want the bloc.democrates,or the liberals running the country.Why do they think we changed our mind.This is just an ego trip at the countries expense..

December 02, 2008 at 9:42:53 AM
Gerry
Many of these comments are from Conservatives supporters with strong opinions about right and wrong, but they are completely ignorant as to how parliamentary democracy works. Didn't they take civics in high school? The government isn't decided based on the party that wins the most seats, it is based on whatever caucus has the confidence of the majority of members of the House of Commons (i.e. the people we elected to represent us). I can understand that these Conservative partisans are upset, but that doesn't entitle them to twist the definition of democracy into a pretzel.

December 02, 2008 at 9:54:38 AM
Peter Exel
Stephen Harper resigned as PM in September because he claimed that he couldn't run a Minority Government. After the Election Canada found itself in the same situation. Harper has proven that he cannot run a Minority, it's too soon to have another election.

A coalition is the olny answer.

December 02, 2008 at 9:58:34 AM
J.P.
This is not how a Canadian government should work. Do we add up the politicians against the ruling government and go against what Canadians have voted for? Let me tell you... Those that are for the coalition now - will regret this if this comes to power. A leader needs logic and the ability to speak for the people. Layton and Dion are the absolute worst people for these economic times. Canada spoke via an election and these parties lost. BOTTOM LINE. I'm embarrassed to say that we as a nation voted - and our rights are being taken away from us. The world is in recession - this is not a political thing that is only happening in Canada. The PM must pull things together in these times, and I think a liberal/NDP coalition will make things much worse as they will throw their money everywhere like Harris did...

December 02, 2008 at 10:05:00 AM
BRIDGET IN Brampton
WHY IS LAYTON SO LAME?....HE IS ABSOLUTELY OBSESSED WITH THE PRESIDENT ELECT - BARACK OBAMA; WITHOUT REALIZING THAT HE HAS NO CO-RELATION WHATSOEVER WITH THE U.S.
WE VOTED STEPHEN HARPER, BECAUSE WE SAW HIM AS BEING GENUINE. THESE THREE ARE POWER HUNGRY.

December 02, 2008 at 10:23:25 AM
Kevin Minnett
Please join my Facebook group called Canadians Against the Proposed Coalition Government. http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=37601508465

December 02, 2008 at 10:51:36 AM
Tudor
The coalition's reasoning is very suspect. It's inconcievable this would take place over a few billions 'stimulus package'. That is a drop in the bucket anyway and it's far from being a certainty it'll do anything. IF they have a program, they should present it in an election campaign, As far as I saw the each party ran on different platforms, why this coalition now? We did not vote for this. The ramnifications will reach far and deep.

December 02, 2008 at 11:00:28 AM
Sean
How can an alliance with seperatists be good for the country?

Maybe Dion and Layton should both move to Quebec and form their own country where election results are meaningless.

Dion and Layton are traitors to Canada and have shown Canadians that they will lower themselves to any level.

One thing that most Canadians agree on politically is that we don't like the Bloc and they shouldn't have any part of governing Canada.

We need an election now, more than ever before.

December 02, 2008 at 11:08:11 AM
Ken McDowall
I just had a vision of Jean Chretien holding up a star, and leading Dion,Layton, & Duceppe dressed as "wise men" in a parade at the Parliament buildings on Christmas Eve.

December 02, 2008 at 11:09:07 AM
Mary
I am so angry. Things have gotten way out of hand here. We now have 3 parties, one of which represents the interests of a single province and who’s only other intent evidently is to create chaos, that have formed an alliance to quash the government that the people of Canada voted for. Adding to the confusion is that these party leaders have ‘named’ the new prime minister, who by the way I thought was resigning. Clearly the 3 opposition parties' actions have been in the works long before the financial update was presented by Harper's government and are designed to serve their own political interests and personal aspirations and not the interests of the Canadian people.

December 02, 2008 at 12:18:53 PM
Jim (Ottawa)
This is blatantly an illegitimate government. Let's have another election where we can vote for either a Conservative government, or a coalition government. This is the only way to legitimize these ridiculous political games being played.

December 02, 2008 at 12:33:15 PM
Jenn (Ottawa)
WE’VE ARRIVED, CANADIANS! Quite frankly, I wasn’t sure it would ever happen. Only months ago, we looked South and witnessed a far more compelling campaign than our own ensue – one in which a true leader with a unique vision was elected – and I felt somewhat envious. All we had up here was a visionless party at the helm of the great ship of Canada, sailing a nation of enormous potential out to sea with neither a map nor a compass. But with this latest crisis, our leaders have proved that they have the spine and the strategy to push the conservative bully back. Only a third of us ever wanted the Tories in the first place – a small number when compared to those who espouse smart social values.

December 02, 2008 at 12:50:34 PM
John
Oh Stop it! Stop all the complaining! Harper brought this upon himself and his party. He tried to eliminate the other parties so now they're eliminating him.
Point is, Most of Cananda did not want the Conservatives in power....and now the majority of Canada is getting what they wanted.

Before screaming about a miscarriage of justice...first you should look at the injustice of the Stephen Harper Government.

December 02, 2008 at 1:02:35 PM
Arvind Martin
This is indeed a sad day for Domocratic Canada. Dion, Layton & Duceppe & their respective parties do not have the authority to take over power. The results of the last election clear showed that Harper was to lead Canadian thru these difficult times.
Dion, Layton & Duceppe have shown disrespect for the Canadian voter. May be, another election (what a waste of money!!) will give Harper the majority he requires to lead this country

December 02, 2008 at 1:28:15 PM
S.Lee
JP
"The PM must pull things together in these times, and I think a liberal/NDP coalition will make things much worse as they will throw their money everywhere like Harris did..."

I think you meant BOB RAE and NOT Mike Harris.

December 02, 2008 at 1:40:11 PM
Anne Feener
I too am apalled at this blatant disrespect for our political process. You tell us to vote, we do, and then you disregard what we want. We DONT want Stephan Dion, we DONT want Jack Layton, and I'd venture a guess that the only people who want the Bloc is the seperatists that want to destroy this country. Democracy means letting the people choose and like it or not we chose Stephen Harper...leave it alone. If the Governor General lets this happen then I have to ask why should we bother voting at all?????