Somewhat surprising at this convention, seeing as New Democrats are usually mindful of being politically correct, was delegates’ enthusiastic cheering and standing ovations in response to a speech full of foul language and passionate partisanship.

It came from Leo Gerard, International President of the United Steelworkers.

Dismissing Americans who oppose healthcare reform as rightwing idiots and jerkoffs, Gerard also dubbed Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff as the “Prince of Darkness”.

Gerard also had not-so-kind words for Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

He said Harper thinks of himself as “master of the universe” when he’s giving away Canadian resources and jobs.

Gerard also let the word “bullshit” slip out and then immediately apologized to cable station CPAC, which is broadcasting the entire convention.

On the tamer side, Gerard pleaded for more blue-green cooperation.

By that he explained working people should work more closely with environmentalists, pointing out that anything that comes out of a smokestack is probably handled or breathed in by workers inside the factory.

— Alison Crawford