Why the Canadian political landscape seems so familiar.

It's like a movie.

High in his tower, Prime Minister Stephen Harper searches endlessly for the 

source of ultimate power--the Majority Government of DOOM.

Two stories come to mind. The Senate, now stacked by Conservative appointees, quashed a piece of legislation without debate. Now it is true that the Senate is supposed to act as a brake on the House of Commons, but it should appear that there is an intellectual process involved, not simply the actions of mindless undead.

Recent Tory appointments to the Senate killing the climate bill.

And now the PM has decided to extend Canadian presence in Afghanistan a few more years. Why bother with debate over such a trivial matter? One would hope that the Opposition would have more to say.

Michael Ignatieff and his personal manager prepare for another campaign. 

"A vote for me is a vote for against for against Mordor!"

Talk about "loyal opposition".

Ignatieff consults the Magic 8-ball for yet another important policy decision.

Of course there are those that seek to return Canada to a state of democratic grace.

"Of course I pledge to help destroy the One Ring. My preciousssss!"

Voting Bloc is not an option for most of us in Canada (outside of Quebec). I would equate them with dwarves, working on their things and not bothering much with the rest of us.

The Green Party is the party of hobbits.

"Go hobbits! Longbottom, er, leaf for all!"

The trouble with hobbits is that they aren't renowned for their strength.

No problem. I hear four hobbits are on their way to help.

But in the end all politicians are the same.

The majority government is mine!!!!

Next election--whenever it is--destroy the Ring. Destroy power. Don't vote.