Angry in the Great White North

Bush Derangement Syndrome describes an affliction affecting many Americans (and Canadians too):

"the acute onset of paranoia in otherwise normal people in reaction to the policies, the presidency—nay—the very existence of George W. Bush" Charles Krauthammer

The existence of Stephen Harper has spawned a similar mental disorder in Canada. Most of the symptoms are mild, limited to the inability to actually use Stephen Harper's name ("Harpoon", "Harpercrite", "Stevie Boy", "Harkoon", and so on), but Stephane Dion has begun to exhibit selective deafness. For instance, Stephane Dion can't hear anything when Stephen Harper speaks:

As question period began, it was clear that Prime Minister Stephen Harper had changed his mind from having a mere review by a neutral third party to accepting Mulroney's own request for a public inquiry [into allegations made by Karlheinz Schreiber] against ex-prime minister Brian Mulroney].

In answer to Dion's first question, Harper announced he would appoint an independent person to "provide the terms of reference for a full public inquiry."

After listening to the answer, Dion sprung to his feet, demanding the prime minister "step up to the plate and do the right thing, that is to launch immediately a full public inquiry."

Harper: "I just answered this question about a public inquiry. The independent third party will give the government the appropriate terms of reference for such an inquiry, and such an inquiry will be launched."

Dion (evidently staying on script): "Mr. Speaker, even Mr. Mulroney is calling for a full public inquiry. The prime minister must be the only person who does not think it is a good idea. Why? What is he afraid of? Will he do the right thing? Will he take on his responsibilities and call a full public inquiry now?"

Harper: "Mr. Speaker, the problem is that the leader of the Opposition has whipped himself up into that question and has failed to listen to the previous two answers. That is precisely what the government will be doing."

This particular manifestation of Harper Derangement Syndrome causes the sufferer to believe that the cheering from other Syndrome victims is the sum total of voices in the room.

It's a tragic sight, but you can help.

Give generously.

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