Reality check: Harper’s mandate to govern impressive

Susan Delacourt’s piece yesterday presents a sobering reality, at least for those of us not supportive of the "Conservative coalition". However, there is no disputing this reality, further emphasized by an almost bedrock underpinning that guarantees permanence moving forward. No other party can brag about such a loyal base of support, at least in terms of sheer numbers. A built in advantage that will only grow as our electoral map changes and shifts focus. I have to agree, there is every possibility that these Harper Conservatives dominate the political scene for many years to come.

It is quite amazing that Harper sits with an impressive majority, with almost no presence in Quebec. Along the same vein, the NDP have swept the province and their reward is ZERO real world influence. Both facts speak to a new era in Canadian politics, which will only be re-emphasized when the new regional seat distribution map is truly digested. This Conservative coalition looks all the more resilient. when we incorporate the very near future. You look at the conservative power base, as well as regions where a center right alternative has an entrenched history, and the challenge for the opposition entirely daunting.

Things tend to ebb and flow in Canadian politics, but I do agree that this Harper coalition is stronger than say Mulroney’s majority metric. I call it the knee jerk base, tried and true, no danger of it revolting or protesting really, intoxicated by power, it will be there, wallets agape for the foreseeable future, no question about it. Factor in all of the almost institutional in nature advantages, with the added regional power shifts, and it’s an impressive presentation.

I’m not sure Canada is anymore conservative than in the past, but by offering this "value" based identity, there is enough of an attraction for "swing" voters that meld with the rabid base to create a formidable foe, with ever expectation of future strength.