Have they de-collectivised the healthcare system in the Great White North yet?
No, under our supposedly “conservative” government, it is still illegal for a doctor to provide private medical care for most services (optometry, dentistry and some other exceptions). Our health care system has less choice than communist China and, predictably, continues to endanger Canadians with rationed care and our economy with ever expanding costs. But you will soon be joining us. Once Obamacare makes many employers abandon private health care insurance, another crisis will ensue and the Democrats will use it as the excuse to finally nationalize the entire US health care system.
As for Trudeau, nobody should underestimate the spell that the name still holds for many older Canadians, including many immigrant groups, as well as the media. The name alone will be worth 5% at the polls. Having said that, Trudeau has to face an opponent that is very well funded and not afraid to attack. Young Trudeau has a clear advantage heading over the past three liberal leaders (youth, name recognition), but he could still stumble if the Conservative Party can find some soft spots. I personally think the 2015 election is going to be a brutal fight in the trenches and that we’re likely heading for another minority government of some sort.