Another Liberal Is Out

First Schroeder in Germany, now Martin in Canada. Chirac is likely next.

TORONTO -- A corruption scandal forced a vote of no-confidence Monday that toppled Prime Minister Paul Martin's minority government, triggering an unusual election campaign during the holidays.

Canada's three opposition parties, which control a majority in Parliament, voted against Martin's government, claiming his Liberal Party no longer has the moral authority to lead the nation.

And while Bush and Blair are weakened, their future prospects - along with John Howard in Australia - are considerably brighter than their liberal counterparts.