There will never be a “next Harper” in Canadian politics. He was the complete package

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This week marked the twentieth anniversary of the swearing-in of former Conservative prime minister Stephen Harper. He’s been feted in Ottawa for a few days, and deservedly so. There was a fireside chat with Jean Chretien, a former Liberal prime minister and longtime friend — much to some Canadians’ surprise, although it actually wasn’t a secret — and the unveiling of his impressive official portrait by artist Phil Richards, and a gala event.

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There have been some exquisite tributes to former Prime Minister Stephen Harper in the pages of the National Post, including by Tom Flanagan, Royce Koop and Peter MacKay. I’m pleased to join the chorus to praise my old friend and boss, albeit on a different topic.

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Who will be the next Harper? It’s a question that’s been repeatedly asked about different political leaders and personalities, including Ronald........

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