Canada's Next Great Prime Minister returns

Not content to enjoy mere replicas of US or European reality shows, Canadian audiences are preparing for a second round of the optimistically named "Canada's Next Great Prime Minister."

The competition was originally kick-started back in 1995 by Belinda's father Frank Stronach, and has now grown to such significance that it was able to draw in the most powerful man in Canada, comedian Rick Mercer. Also in attendance are four former Prime Ministers: Brian Mulroney, John Turner, Joe Clark and Kim Campbell.

the former prime ministers will grill five finalists before a live audience March 18. The ex-leaders and members of the audience will then have an equal vote to pick the winner.

I have pretty mixed feelings about the oxymoron that is political entertainment, and the participation of the former Prime Ministers is a main cause. While I see their willingness to partake in this exercise as a sign of accessibility and oneness with the masses, I can't help but feel that acting as a reality show judge, no matter how noble the title, impacts negatively on the dignity of the office once held. American politicians view their highest office with greater respect (though they don't always treat it as such). Whatever silliness GW may spew until his term is up, I just can't see a former President slumming as a panelist on "Who Wants to Be US Senator?"

Despite the grandness of the title, the prize package is relatively modest.

The winner of "The Next Great Prime Minister" will receive a $44,130 cash prize and paid internships in corporate and government organizations.

Better than nothing, of course, but still more in line with the showcase showdown selection you'd expect from "The Next Great Entry Level Disaffected Public Servant."

Canada's Ex-Leaders Join Reality TV Show [Forbes.com]

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