These are not the best years in a relationship close enough to be measured by the mere 72 hours separating Canada's birthday from today's celebration of U.S. independence.
A politically toxic president, preoccupation with the Iraq War abroad and Mexican migration at home are limiting cross-border attention and options, just as a slowing economy argues for seizing opportunities fast.
In a best-case scenario, those negatives will disappear at the November finish of a riveting presidential race. As much as Canadians overwhelmingly back Barrack Obama, John McCain promises to be less problematic for Stephen Harper than George W. Bush.
It's not just that Bush is inextricably linked to a badly conceived and executed Middle East occupation and the erosion of rights central to America's founding. It's also that issues that matter to Canada rarely hold his attention long.
Stumble It!
Ed Deak.
Of course, this will be at the expense of Canada and other countries who have Governments which sell out their people for God knows what. Yes, it "must" do this, in the name of selfishness and greed.
Actually, no matter who wins the White House, Canada is still up the sewage gutter without a paddle. And we will be until we find a way to remove the numerous cancerous growths which have ravaged this country.