In a stunning upset, hockey Hall of Famer Wayne Gretzky beat Canadian Prime Minister incumbent Stephen Harper in the national election with 54% to 46% of the vote.
The special election was called by Harper to continue his conservative reign over the Canadian political system. Recent polls showed Harper ahead with voters happy with immigration xenophobia by the current government and stable economic growth.
However, more liberal leaning views won over at the last moment during the 78-day campaign. He’s the first American president ever but making hockey popular in Los Angeles was even a greater feat.
Gretzky’s late assist helped tie the game and take the race into overtime. With 7:43 into overtime, Gretzky scored the winning goal to win the election.
Being a California resident, there is concern whether the five-time Stanley Cup champion will be able to govern to the best of his ability but his agent assured the Canadian people that Gretzky can Skype into meetings and use e-mail.
In Gretzky’s victory speech he told the CBC, “I’m sure as Hell not living in Ottawa all year around. People can come see me at my home in Hermosa Beach, California.”
Many countries criticize Canada for determining their political elections with hockey games, but it has worked for the country for over 150 years.
