Harper motivated by political hatred, says biography

According to a new book, the prime minister controls every aspect of his government and has a visceral hate for his opponents.

The biography, written by Globe and Mail columnist Lawrence Martin, includes interviews with Conservative insiders who say that even Stephen Harper’s allies find his obsession with control disturbing. According to some, not even a Parks Canada report about the mating habits of bears could be released without Harper’s approval. David Emerson, who defected from the Liberals to join the Conservatives in 2006, said he was shocked at the level of hatred Harper’s team harboured for their opponents. Martin’s characterization of the prime minister mirrors the opposition’s portrayal of him as a leader who ignores advice and dismisses those who disagree with him. Harper’s spokesman said yesterday that Martin is a biased Liberal sympathizer.