The battle of Quebec

Stephane Dion challenges Stephen Harper.

Stephane Dion challenges Stephen Harper.

Dion said Harper should not be afraid to publicly say he prefers a Quebec premier who espouses federalism — just as former prime minister Jean [Chretien] did. “It seems to me that a prime minister should not be shy to say that he wants all the premiers to believe in the country.”

The Conservatives and New Democrats are officially staying out of the Quebec race. Bob Rae tweeted his best wishes for Jean Charest last night.

Martin Patriquin and Paul Wells consider the campaign ahead.