After the most costly natural disaster in American history and certainly the most tragic event that has faced Americans at home in the past few years, how do Canada’s political leaders respond?

Conservative Party of Canada leader Stephen Harper:

*“On behalf of the Conservative Party of Canada I would like to express our sympathy to all the victims and their families of Hurricane Katrina. As my wife Laureen and I watched news reports of the disaster with our children we were shocked by the magnitude of their loss.

For deeper analysis and exclusive posts, subscribe to my Substack.

As Leader of the Opposition, I extend our support and offer of any assistance that we can provide. Natural disasters such as this remind us that when our close friends and neighbours are in trouble we, as Canadians, are always ready to help out.” — Stephen Harper [link]*

NDP leader Jack Layton:

Still no statement at this time [UPDATE 8/31 ~6pm]

Prime Minister of Canada and Liberal Party of Canada leader Paul Martin:

Still no statement at this time [UPDATE]

Apparently, the Prime Minister’s appointment of both his lawyer and his secretary to the Senate merits a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, yet when crisis hits our American friends, no statement.

If we dig a little deeper, we find a statement from a department of the Government of Canada written by a staffer which quotes Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Anne McLellan.

Where’s Paul Martin?