I'm a fan of feisty!

"U.S. ambassador takes aim at Martin comments"

U.S. Ambassador to Canada David Wilkins smiles before he is introduced for his speech to the Canadian Club luncheon in Ottawa on Tuesday. Photo: Tom Hanson/CP

Ottawa — The Bush administration issued a sharp, public rebuke Tuesday to Prime Minister Paul Martin for dragging the Canadian-U.S. relationship into the federal election campaign.

Ambassador David Wilkins said Canada risks damaging one of the world's best relationships by focusing on short-term political gain.

"It may be smart election-year politics to thump your chest and criticize your friend and your No. 1 trading partner constantly," Mr. Wilkins said in a speech to the Canadian Club at the historic Chateau Laurier Hotel, next door to Parliament Hill.

"But it is a slippery slope, and all of us should hope that it doesn't have a long-term impact on the relationship."

"America may be an easy target, said Mr. Wilkins, "but the United States should not be on your ballot." more ...