The election is over. The NDP and Conservatives gained a few seats. The Liberals lost a few. The Greens doubled their percentage of the popular vote (6%, up from 3%). The only way I can describe the the last 35 days is as a waste of time.
The next time Steve-o decides to call an election, Governor General should look to the other parties to form a government.
But now is when the spin begins.:) As you say, the NDP and Conservatives gained seats so the NDP will probably say that Canadians are starting to see them as a real alternative to the Conservatives and this election shows that. And the Conservatives will say that this election shows that Canadians believe in their “steady leadership” by giving them an even “stronger minority”.
But long term, yes, I do agree that this was a waste really. I agree with one of the analysts on CBC (or possibly CTV, I was flipping through the channels) that said a Minority government like this needs a Prime Minister who is willing to reach across party lines and work with the opposition parties. Harper has shown that he’s not that kind of PM and is more into bullying. So by winning more seats this election will probably boost up his ego and give him more reason to bully instead of working with the other parties. And in a few years when we have our next election he’ll blame everything on the other parties again.
On the contrary, the liberals will be in disarray now as there will be a leadership convention shortly. They’ll vote for anything rather than risk another election.
Oh wait, you’re right. No change.