The writ has been dropped in Manitoba for a May 22nd vote. This has, obviously led to speculation that there won’t be a federal spring election because federal party leaders always look out for Manitoba when it comes to election timing. Right? Right? Right?

As for the vote itself, above and beyond finding Winnipeg on the map, I don’t think there’s much I can add. There are some smart sounding people in Coyne’s comments section who can likely shed a bit of light on the vote. The common consensus is that the NDP fortunes are sagging a bit but Gary Doer’s personal popularity can likely keep them in government. Hugh McFadyen (whose name I have no clue how to pronounce) leads the Tories and also seems to be viewed quite favourably, while the Liberals…well…their 54 year election drought likely won’t be ending this time.