Probably a much more significant event than most Americans realize. Far more conservative than any Canadian leader to date, Martin is much more of the mindset that inhabits the Oval Office. A bitter, decades-long rival of his predecessor Chretien, Martin may well be determined on massive changes in Canadian domestic and foreign policy. While this may seem insignificant to some, it is likely to have a subtle long-term effect on the continental realpolitik. Whether for good or ill will remain to be seen.

the 9 people actually living in canada only gave this a 3.

I think it is total B.S. that whenever I am in Canada...the Canadian news and tv are always telling the events of the United States...but when I am at home in the U.S.A., I rarely hear anything about Canada...heck, I had to go on the internet to find out who became Prime Minister ! As others have said, Canada is not a country to be ignored...not only are they our friends...but they are also a superpower as far as I am concerned...