The Debates: Liberal vs. NDP vs. Green, and Who Stands To Gain From That...

We need to do well in the debates - to make this "recovery" in the polls mean something.

Unfortunately, I think the debates may be watered down like the last time, and with 5 leaders, the exchanges may be ridiculously ambiguous. I hope I'm wrong, but I fear a debate where there isn't a lot of time to ask the important questions. I just hope the opposition leaders are smart enough to ensure all the shots at Harper are taken - and they don't waste unnecessary energy on each other. May, Layton, and Dion - if they know what's good for them, and more importantly, for Canada - need to ensure that they don't waste time on each other.

A little "compromise" may be necessary, to ensure that the Conservatives lose votes. If Harper is under a sustained and organized attack by 4 leaders - who appear genuine and trustworthy - he's in trouble. This strategy will ensure that "Joe Public" doesn't just close eyes and vote for the status quo. Only ONE person stands to gain from the other parties attacking each other: Harper. NDP shots at Liberals - or vice versa - will only help Harper nation-wide, even if the comments are targeted to a certain region... So in "battleground" BC, or Ontario, Layton, May, and Dion need to be careful not to attack one another. On debate night this is particularly important.

Harper MUST be made to look like the "bad guy" that he is on debate night. He cannot sail through untouched, with the usual media comments about it being "typical" that the incumbent is attacked. The attacks need to be sustained and repetitive, and when an answer is not provided, THAT point has to be driven home as well. Harper must wear his decision to make the economy "USA-light"...