My, but the French debate sucked.

Martin has never looked like more of a buffoon. No style and even less substance. God, how I loathe that man and everything he stands for. It embarrasses me that he is my Prime Minister. It was like Clown School Outtakes. Far too much gesticulating, bobbing and weaving; I was nearly motion sick several times during his vapid, near-unintelligible responses. Suggestion to The Board: Do yourselves a huge favour and sign Paulie up for Public Speaking 101. Get Scott Reid in there, too...it can only help at this point.

Harper's French sucked hind tit. It was literally cringe-inducing. There was nothing even vaguely endearing about his lacklustre, uninspired performance. "Limp" and "tired" are words that spring to mind (all sympathy to Mrs. Harper). Stephen had better bring his A game tonight. It's his to win or lose...and there's a lot of campaign left, my friends.

Duceppe was, as per usual, suave, confident and on message. That's what happens when you surround yourself with competent, experienced staffers. I'm not a separatist, but I've always appreciated Duceppe for what he is - a very, very good politician, and a statesman. He'll do well tonight also, as his English is much better the other candidates' French. Duceppe has Quebec sewn up. There is NO room at that inn.

Layton scored points last night. His French started off shaky, but firmed up nicely toward the middle. The bleeding heart social justice angle plays very well in Quebec; he'll get some traction there. Perhaps a shade too car salesman-like, but generally on message (The message? That Martin is a smarmy, arrogant, patronizing crook, of course!). People like Jack. It's kind of hard not to, when presented with the alternatives. Keep doing what you're doing, Jacky m'boy...

I will watch the English debate tonight in what is likely the vain hope that there will be a little more verve/passion/politics involved. Hmmm...I know I've got a giant bag of salt lying around somewhere...