Election preview

While some may hope for a quick turnaround depending on the result, most Canadians will be happy to have the election arrive tomorrow.

The period could have been worse. The country had rather decent weather, given the time frame of the campaign. Most of the country had average or above average throughout the campaign, and hopefully, the skies will look good on Monday.

Some tidbits as I look to Monday:

-- I know Stephen Harper is trying to be ultra-careful, but his decision not to take questions from reporters in the final weekend of the campaign is not a good sign. I know Harper has taken hits lately, but accessibility is a trait voters usually like in a leader (yes, Bush appears to be an exception).

-- Regional pockets will be the key. Watch for Montreal (see if the Liberals hang on to those seats), southwestern Ontario (can the Conservatives make a run at those seats), the 416/905 battle (Liberals trying to retain in the 416, Conservatives trying to sneak in the 905), and British Columbia (can the Liberals steal a few seats?).

-- It is said you vote for the leader in the party as well as the party. It is difficult to imagine that someone from the four major parties will be replaced before the next campaign (unless it's a quick turnaround). Gilles Duceppe is the safest of the four, followed by Jack Layton. The fates of Paul Martin and Harper hinge greatly on the election.

-- I keep thinking the electorate wants a majority government. Pick someone and give them 5 years. But I don't see that happening on Monday. Seeing the level of distrust about the leaders leads the people to not give someone too much influence.

And finally. . .

-- If the Conservatives win a minority, who will they turn to for partners for a coalition?

Good luck to all the parties (including Green Party Leader Jim Harris and not just the major players) and get out and VOTE!!!