In the most shocking announcement in Canadian political history Ralph Klein, premier of the province of Alberta, and Stephen Harper, leader of the federal official opposition, have announced they are now married. The news was broken in a joint press release. Klein and Harper become the first elected politicians to enter a gay marriage. Ironically, the recently passed bill C-38 that legalized gay marriage in Canada, allowing the two to marry, was vehemently opposed by both politicians. The press release also reaffirmed both politicians continued stance against gay marriage. The apparent contradiction was justified by the insistence that their private lives “in no way have any bearing on the political views of the political parties they represent.” Commentators across the country were stunned and most have refused to comment until more public statements are issued by Klein and Harper. Klein and Harper were unavailable for comment as they are honeymooning in Niagara Falls. This is the second marriage for both. Apparently, Klein’s marriage to Colleen Klein and Harper’s marriage to Laureen Harper were both secretly dissolved before the two could be married. Neither former wife was available for comment.
The gay community has also been baffled by the announcement and did not appear eager to have the two conservative politicians in their ranks. EGALE, a Canadian gay and lesbian lobby group, has said it was not sure what to make of the announcement. An EGALE spokesman said, “Well I am glad their true identities are finally revealed and I wish them happiness. However, I think that it is time to review their opposition to gay marriage, it simply doesn’t make any sense in light of this.” Members of Harper and Klein’s own parties have been less supportive. In fact, Klein’s provincial Progressive Conservative Party and Harper’s national Conservative Party had emergency caucus meetings and have refused public comment. Anonymous sources with access to the meetings have described them as tense. Although, Klein’s caucus did take some time to discuss an appropriate wedding gift.
One person who has not taken the news well is long time Klein advisor and confidant, Rod Love. Love released a tearful video statement where he lamented the fact he was left in the dark about the union. “I wonder how someone who says they care for you can turn around and stab them in the back. How could you do this to me?” a tearful Love said. The Love tape has fueled speculation into the true nature of him and Klein’s relationship.
Prime Minister Paul Martin did hold a press conference. Martin said he wished the new couple well and said he looked forward to congratulating them in person. When asked if he stood to gain politically from this announcement Martin had to visibly fight back a smile. Martin indicated that the personal lives of his opponents should have no bearing on his political fortunes.
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