I was listening to the remarks of the US Ambassador to Canada last night, and was totally blown away by the not too subtle message to the PM.  The media is speculating that this is a “direct message” from The White House, but I’m reserving judgement. 

The conspiracy theorists in da house, seem to think that this is a blatent endorsment of Harper by the White House.  I shudder to think of the implications of Bubba Bush getting involved in our political games.  This totally smells like Carl Rove’s doing…

I don’t think that the PM has been overtly hostile toward the US, but rather holding his ground on issues related to Canada’s well being.  Softwood lumber, the Iraq war, and other international aid efforts have a direct effect on Canadians and the governments resources.  Personally, I am conforted by the fact that we have a PM that will stand up to the United States, and respond to issues case by case, keeping Canada’s obligations and limitations in perspective. 

God forbid we get a Conservative patsy, who will go running to the US’s side just to maintain diplomatic relationships.  To be fair Stephen Harper has said that we will not be sending troops to Iraq, but I suspect this is simply playing to public opinion polls.

The ambassador was certainly polite and succint in his messages.  But, as Mary-Lou Findlay said last night on the CBC As It Happens show:

“Are Neighbours and friends the same thing?”