If you’re just tuning in now, well, I can see how you’d be a bit confused. This was the scene last January:

And now we have a Conservative-socialist coalition, propped up by the separatists, passing that very same budget Jack was talking about above.

And after being almost certain that we were heading into an election a week or two ago, there’s now no election until EI gets through the House – which I imagine won’t be overly fast, given it’s now in a lot of people’s best interests to have it not move fast.

So here’s a handy guide to help you navigate through the topsy turvy world of where the parties stand on the need for an election.

Today.

I may have to update this guide on a weekly basis.

Conservatives

Last year: Nothing wrong with early elections.
This spring: No one wants an early election.
Now: No one wants an early election.
In reality: Given their complete unwillingness to compromise at a time when the NDP is bending over backwards to find any excuse imaginable to support the government, it’s a safe bet that Harper wouldn’t mind a fall trip to the polls.

Liberals

Last year: Backing down and loving it!
This spring: Backing down, but putting the government on double secret probation.
Now: Trying to force an election at every opportunity.
In reality: Glad the NDP are rolling over.

NDP

Last year: Voting against the Conservatives. Accusing the Liberals of being wimps.
This spring: Voting against the Conservatives. Accusing the Liberals of being wimps.
Now: Errr…let’s make parliament work guys.
In reality: Really don’t want an election.

Bloc

Last year: Il s’en fout
This spring: Il s’en fout
Now: Il s’en fout
In reality: Il s’en fout