the prediction of a conservative minority to rule canada came true at tonight on monday, january 23rd 2006. the conservatives quickly took the lead in some of their traditional b.c. strongholds in early returns from today's federal election. the close fight was reflected by voters emerging from polls in the vancouver area, where most of the toss-up seats were located. many wanted change, choosing to vote for conservative in lieu of liberal candidates because of the lack of change seen in the past couple of years.



stephen harper has by turns been cast as too extreme, too rigid, too scary to reshape the country. but tonight, the country has voted. they have voted that it's time to take a chance on the conservative leader and on change, handing him a minority government. the liberal fortress in ottawa has not toppled, and they will form the opposing voice to the new government's reign.

this has been described by many as the dirtiest elections campaign in canadian history. god bless canada.