Harper Opens Canada Campaign Saying Opposition Risks Recovery

Prime Minister Stephen Harper began the campaign for Canada’s fourth election in seven years urging voters to preserve the “closest thing” to a global haven, while Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff said the Conservatives have abused democracy and will waste billions of dollars.

Harper told supporters in Quebec City, Toronto and Vancouver that the Liberals, New Democrats and Bloc Quebecois will move with “lightning speed” to form a coalition after the May 2 vote if the Conservatives don’t win a majority government. Harper has governed since 2006 with a minority of seats and relied on opposition support to pass laws.