Oh, by the way

Harper springs another surprise:

OTTAWA (CP) - With an eye on a looming election, Prime Minister Stephen Harper is introducing legislation to let Canadians choose senators for the first time. The new law would allow voters to choose preferred candidates to represent their province or territory in the upper chamber. It falls short of actually electing senators, but will provide the prime minister with a gauge of public feeling in making appointments. Harper announced the news in a campaign-style speech to the Conservative caucus Wednesday.

BACKDATE: Here's my take on Harper's previous Senate gambit.