It seems Prime Minister Harper will call an election as soon as possible.

Desperate for a majority, economy in a tailspin, it's now or never. Mr. Harper is an economist - he knows there is no recovery for 2010 and the banks know it too.

Parliament was suspended (prorogued) almost six extra weeks beyond the normal six week Christmas recess. Twelve weeks without a sitting government in the midst of a world-wide economic crisis, and with the country at war - Canadians dying and disabled on the battlefield.

So this 'Christmas holiday' (December 11th - March 3rd) is the perfect opportunity to craft a lightning election - one which comes with little warning. Presently a little problematic for the Conservative Party - virtually tied in polls with the opposition Liberals. A crisis or scandal is needed to swing the public Harper-side. Time is tight - He has the North American Union merger, scheduled for 2010, and he can see the labour unions on the boil. Wait till they hear about their pensions.

The calm before the storm. All stops will be pulled to win a majority. Watch for electronic balloting. Note the latest Catholic Bishop criticism of opposition leader Michael Ignatieff - the RC Church is strongly allied with the Conservatives. Targetting of immigrant and ethnic groups to sell votes. Photo ops in Haiti. As long as we're watching hockey, the Olympics, or eating at Tim's, we'll miss the big picture.