The early reviews are in. Prepare for a "wild ride" in this second session of the 39th Parliament. The political stakes are "extremely high," and it will be an "emotionally charged Parliament" partly because Prime Minister Stephen Harper boldly declared on Oct. 3 that he would put in place perpetual confidence motions on key government bills, including crime and justice bills, indicating he wants an election earlier rather than later. This is the Prime Minister's prerogative, indeed, but it also heightens the drama and the brinkmanship and in the process forces each party leader to clarify his Parliamentary leadership role. It's not ideal for making Parliament work, but it's a strong test for political leadership.

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