Not wanting to let a long weekend pass by without giving political junkies something to talk obsessively about, the Toronto Star says the search is on for a new Governor-General.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper has decided not to extend Michaëlle Jean's term as viceroy and is " actively seeking her replacement," the paper reports.
Wheelchair athlete Rick Hansen was approached for the job, the Star says citing an anonymous senior source, but rejected the offer because he's got "long-range aims and objectives."
Despite twice agreeing to shut down Parliament at Mr. Harper's request - the first time in December, 2008, when the Liberal-NDP-Bloc coalition sought his ouster, then again a year later so the Prime Minister could "recalibrate" his agenda (and avoid the Afghan detainee controversy) - most Canadians approve of Ms. Jean's performance at Rideau Hall.
However, an Angus Reid poll conducted for the Star also found that nearly two in five, or 38 per cent, believe Canada doesn't need a viceroy.
The survey says 50 per cent of Canadians would have liked Mr. Hansen to replace Ms. Jean. Former top soldier and diplomat John de Chastelain and Inuit leader Mary Simon were also floated as possible candidates, earning 36 and 31 per cent support respectively.
Another name that has surfaced recently is Reform Party founder Preston Manning, who is the favoured choice of several Conservatives. Others suggest Noel Kinsella, currently Speaker of the Senate - or perhaps even Don Cherry, should the Prime Minister opt to appoint another CBC employee.
With that in mind, you're invited to continue the wild speculation and oddball nominations in the comment section below.
(Photo: Eduardo Munoz/Reuters)
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Update Another name surfaces among Tory ranks: Wayne Gretzky.