Paul Hunter

Stephen Harper's long last day is underway.

He began his final leg of campaign '08 this morning with a crowded, very noisy rally outside Charlottetown.

Conservatives hope to pick up at least one of P.E.I.'s four seats on Tuesday and have eyes on two others. They've been shut out on the Island since 1988.

As for this morning, when you consider this province's tiny population, it's safe to presume Harper was thrilled with the turnout — more than 500 people for an event held before 9 a.m.

Besides "Harper!" placards, the most commonly seen signage was a big red circle with a diagonal line through the headline No Carbon Tax — a huge issue here.

Islanders who spoke to CBC also say the notion of getting an MP in on the government side is front burner for many voters. Not to mention that in a Harper government, an MP from P.E.I. would be a lock for cabinet.

Up next — Fredericton. Then west to Vancouver before hopping back to Calgary at day's end.

— Paul Hunter