First week of election campaign ends

The first week of the latest federal election campaign wrapped up Friday, and there has been no shortage of intrigue, action and multiple sub-plots swirling around the controversial election.

With only four weeks remaining before the May 2 vote, there are differing opinions on how the leaders have performed, and which have increased their political stock.

Nelson Wiseman, a U of T political science professor, said Conservative Leader Stephen Harper and Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff have been the clear winners in the first week, albeit using different strategies.

“The (former) prime minister is playing a very front-runner campaign, he’s alienating the media because he’s not giving them access, but the public doesn’t seem to care,” Wiseman said of Harper.

Meanwhile, Wiseman called Ignatieff’s strategy of challenging Harper to one-on-one debates, combined with passionate political speeches, an impressive start.

Wiseman affirmed Ignatieff’s rising numbers in the polls have been reflective of his strong start, but added the Conservatives have maintained their polling numbers, which are in majority territory.

Harper has done well at deflecting criticism and repeating his theme for the campaign according to Wiseman, who added too much of the same can get risky.

“If he keeps harping on coalition, that idea becomes more viable and tenable if he doesn’t get a majority,” Wiseman said of Harper.

Meanwhile, Wiseman suggested New Democratic Party Leader Jack Layton’s message isn’t sticking with voters.

“The Liberals are more astute in pushing jails, jets and corporate tax cuts, and the NDP hasn’t pushed those buttons,” Wiseman said.

Regardless of how things currently stand, Wiseman reminded voters a lot can change in an election campaign within a month.