Dueling Politicos

In what has been billed as the biggest battle of the crooners since Frank Sinatra defeated Perry Como, Stephen Harper and Bob Rae have taken to their pianos to out-sing each other.

What makes this contest particularly interesting is that each political heavyweight has composed his own song. Mr. Rae, viewing the omnibus budget bill now up for third reading, will sing "Whatcha Got Up Your Sleeve, Steve?"

Mr. Harper, mindful that a Liberal leadership convention is approaching, will belt out "Better Look for a Job, Bob."

Regarding the Liberal leadership, many in the party are calling for Justin Trudeau. Others are calling for Justin Bieber.

And, on the topic of politicians' popularity, Mr. Harper still leads Messrs. Rae and Mulcair, with a 28 percent approval rating. This is somewhat balanced by a 48 percent disapproval rating. The other 24 percent didn't know who he is.

Meanwhile, in Ottawa, Elizabeth May, the one woman Green Party, is preparing to take on the budget bill, which is longer than the Old Testament ("but," insists a Conservative spokesperson, "similarly divinely inspired").