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Warm welcome for a former leader

It's pretty clear the Liberals are feeling the wind in their sails today. What better evidence than two standing ovations for Paul Martin from an apparently partisan business crowd in Toronto.

Political Bytes

Louise Elliott

Martin introduced Stéphane Dion at the joint Empire/Canadian club luncheon today.

"What a difference a Harper makes," said Martin, to applause from the business crowd.

Martin's failure in the 2006 election notwithstanding, the Liberals feel assured by polling trends and aren't worried that Martin will hurt the campaign.

Instead, they are betting Canadians need reassurance that only the long-time economic manager can provide. Dion even led a standing ovation for Martin before he took the podium.

Louise Elliott