NDP Update, proof Jack Layton may be a transformer

***Update: October 28th 2011. I was just going back and reorganizing my blog post when I came to this one. Rest in Peace Jack Layton. Your dedication to the people of Canada will never be forgotten***

The NDP's Jack Layton has gained 3% popularity, rising to 17%, in the past week. This has been the largest jump in popularity so far this election; coming from a candidate who has been plagued by health problems in the past year. The strength and tenacity of Layton is pretty remarkable; hobbling around on crutches, touring the country, and attracting the largest crowds the NDP has seen this election (although not near Liberal of Conservative numbers).

The NDP are focusing on real Canadian families; this is in contrast to the Conservative emphasis on economic growth.

Where has he been so far? Oshawa, Ottawa, Brampton, Montreal, Sudbury, and Halifax. It's day 8 of the campaign, and we are heading into the phrase where parties start to aggressively unroll policy. Let's look at some of the NDP's major policy introductions:

-Cutting federal subsidies to fossil fuel produces (including the Alberta oil sands): The current government has provided billions in subsides to one of the dirtiest sources of fuel. Maybe I'm wrong, but I thought oil production was very profitable. I understand providing subsidies, because it boosts investment and Alberta's economy, but I'm pretty sure the oil sands will continue to operate even if subsidies stop. People need petrol. This policy also includes a redirection of those subsidies into green energy investment. Hey, if our government is going to subsidize energy it should probably include some recognition of the environment. But who knows? fuel will probably just get more expensive.

-Cap credit card rates, and regulate transaction fees: According to the NDP:

“It’s time Canadian families got a break. This recession has forced many families to turn to their credit cards just to make ends meet. As a result, the average Canadian family is now $100,000 in debt.”

I find this statement a bit misleading because it somewhat ignores the impact of mortgages on debt. I understand credit cards greatly contribute to debt, but really? Canadians are averaging $100 000 in debt from credits cards? Maybe I should invest in Visa.

-Investing in front-line health workers: Layton plans to hire 1200 doctors, and 6000 nurses. I work at a hospital part-time as a janitor, and I see the inadequacies of our health system. I see over crowded waiting rooms, and people waiting 8 hours to see a nurse; so I can definitely support an investment in front-line workers (as supposed to ehealth). Although honestly, I think most people who come into the ER don't need to be there. Take 2 aspirin and call me in the morning, drink some echinacea tea, save the ER for people who really need it.

-Policies related to the economy:

-Drop the small business tax rate from 11% to 9% - a 2 percentage point tax break that will help create jobs.

-Create a Job Creation Tax Credit for employers of up to $4,500 per new hire.

-Extend the Accelerated Capital Costs Allowance for the next four years.

-Restore the current Corporate Income Tax rate to 2008 levels and ensure Canada’s corporate tax rate always remains below the tax rate in the USA.

There have been several other promises made by the NDP, so check the website: NDP Press Releases