Martin Puts the Final Nail in His Political Coffin

“I have large differences with Stephen Harper but I have never doubted his patriotism,” Martin said at a news conference in London. (Toronto Star, Jan. 18, 2005)

Really? Then how do you explain the smear attempt early in the campaign where your party alledged that Harper didn't "love" Canada?

CAMPAIGN FLASH
ISSUE:Today Stephen Harper was asked by a reporter: "Do you love this country? "

Instead of saying yes, Harper gave the following response: "Well, I said Canada is a great country. You know, all of us who get involved in public life spend a lot of time away from our families to go across the country, probably get in many ways the mostrewarding experience you could have, you know. It's not tourist travel, you don't see all the hot spots and all the great sights but you get a real sense -- the kind old and the of traveling I've done, especially the last seven or eight months, you get a real sense of Canadians, where they live, who they are and what their challenges are. And I think the country has unlimited potential.
That's why I think it would be so exciting to take over at this point in our history. But I think it's necessary to make a change if we're going to realize that potential."

KEY MESSAGES:The simple answer is 'Yes', especially from someone who wants to lead this great country. Saying that Canada only has great "potential" are not the words of a passionate, committed leader with a vision to shape the Canada's future. (Calgary Grit, Nov. 29, 2005)

Party press releases not good enough for you? How about this comment from the Prime Minister himself: "This morning I'm told Stephen Harper had a little difficulty saying this, so I'll say it. I love Canada," he said to the cheers of Liberal supporters. (Politics Watch, Nov. 29, 2005)

It is unbelievable that Martin can so blatantly contradict himself and expect to retain any semblance of credibility. His statement at the beginning of the election campaign quite clearly indicates that he has in the past attempted to cast doubt on the patriotism of Stephen Harper. That the self-styled "Captain Canada" would stand beside a man who urged Quebecers to vote for the separatists in an "anything to stop Harper" plea of desperation reeks of the ugliest form of political hypocrisy.