What Does the Election Mean for Toronto?

This election means that there will be one less leader to kick around at the end (although I would suggest that Jumpin' Jack is safe regardless of the NDP outcome).

Ignatieff is one of the few interesting ridings to watch for, in addition to Ianno's rematch against Olivia Chow (who will win it this time around).

Considering the campaigns are not ramped up until the last two weeks before the vote takes place, Canadians can ignore those on the stump until well after the holiday pounds and self-loathing subsides.

"What's on the table - what issues are defining this election?"

Well, it only just got started, but it looks like "corruption" and "same-sex marriage" are the early leaders. The former was a no-brainer. The latter I'm surprised was brought out on Day 1. I suspect that it is so Harper can get it out there to energize his base and then move past it (or try). Going forward it is anyone's guess what the topics will be.

"A few MPs aren't running again - their non-confidence vote means, essentially, they're done. Who follows them?"

Another politician. I haven't heard of any particularly interesting people stepping in to fill the voids.

"Is the new government going to spend most of it's time and money stumping and trying to convince us to vote?"

The new government, that is the one who is elected, will be spending its time running the government. The old government, that is Martin's current Liberals, will be spending their time and money trying to convince us to vote.. for them.

"What kind of actions can we expect from a new bunch - how long will it take them to get settled?"

That will depend on if the Grits or the Tories win. If the Grits win, most of them have already been in government and they should be able to pick up and run with it. If the Tories win, there will be some time to sort out Cabinet and such.. but I wouldn't expect it would take more than a couple months.

"Will cities still get their 'new deal'?"

Depends on who wins.

"Is voting really such a crimp in the holiday season?"

Thankfully, the actual voting isn't until well past the holiday season. Campaigning during the season simply means that a lot of people will be ignoring it.