Big, jovial wooden-head types have always been popular in rural or small-town Quebec. So, Bernier's seat would be safe in any event.
But I wouldn't go so far as you in dismissing the book's impact.
There has been a steady drip-drip, like a leaky tap, a kind of slow, mounting Chinese water torture, around the Conservatives in Quebec.
This - just as Bob Rae's revelation of Harper's purloined speech reminded voters that Harper wanted to be in Iraq - reminds Quebeckers that Bernier opposes the useless effort in Afghanistan.
Also, since the author is herself a Quebecker, her tales of his laughing at constituents and frequently expressed contempt for Harper may have some impact.
Bernier and Couillard in happier days
