Poverty is one of the most pressing issues in the city. There are groups working to elevate the worst of it. Human Development Council and Vibrant Communities come to mind. There are also several affordable housing initiatives as well as literacy programs. Virtually all of that is funded privately or through donations. There are also individuals in the city, like Joe Godin, who, through sheer perseverance, make things happen. Right now we are in the middle of a by-election for the Saint John Harbour riding that includes the South End. Given the candidates backgrounds, I don’t think that any of them gives a dime about Michelle or anybody else who has no means of advancing their political careers. It’s sickening really.

Call me a cynic, but I couldn't help but laugh at the following AFP story:

US lawmakers target oil price gouging, sky-high profits

WASHINGTON (AFP) - US lawmakers accused major energy companies of reaping record revenues at the expense of consumers, as the Senate announced plans to investigate runaway gasoline prices and soaring home heating costs…
… Majority Leader Bill Frist said hearings into possible price-gouging would be held by the Senate's Energy and Commerce committees…
'If there are those who abuse the free enterprise system to advantage themselves and their businesses at the expense of all Americans, they ought to be exposed, and they ought to be ashamed.'

They are not ashamed at all. They are just being good capitalists and seizing the moment. This is really rich coming from a Republican.