Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday February 6, 2008
Canucks catch U.S. election fever
Super Tuesday was a sweet distraction for political animals north of the border as Canadians got caught up in a U.S. electoral fever not felt since John F. Kennedy.Canadian politicians and pundits alike had one eye on streaming TV and online coverage as Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton battled for Democratic support while John McCain and Mitt Romney fought to sway Republicans.
Results from Super Tuesday’s 22-state primary election day – the biggest in U.S. history – help set the stage for November’s presidential election. The outcome could ultimately affect Canada-U.S. relations, a partnership that’s been less than cozy since Jean Chretien compared golf swings with Bill Clinton.
“The prime minister is watching the U.S. campaign with interest,” said Carolyn Stewart Olsen, a spokeswoman for Stephen Harper. “He has not indicated any favourite candidate, nor would he. He looks forward to continuing a good working relationship with the U.S. and whoever is the successful candidate.”
Liberal Leader Stephane Dion planned to watch the results roll in Tuesday night at a pizza party with staff at the Opposition Leader’s Office.
“He won’t pick a favourite,” said spokesman Mark Dunn. “He has been watching all the races closely.”
And around Ottawa, the most die-hard political keeners planned Super Tuesday get-togethers after work. (Toronto Star)