The downside of fear-mongering

Former NDP campaign Brian Topp links the public’s relative acceptance of Stephen Harper to Paul Martin’s fear-based campaigns against him.

Here the Prime Minister continues to be the long-term beneficiary of Paul Martin’s foolish 2004 and 2006 campaigns, which set out to paint Mr. Harper as a demonic figure who would destroy the planet if elected. He would point guns at your face; unload troops on your lawn; and fill the skies with black smoke. Mr. Harper has done none of these things, so far – and so he continues to benefit from the expectations game created for him by his less politically skilful predecessor.

Oddly, that description of the boogieman is rather reminiscent of a certain campaign ad that ran during the 2008 campaign...