Canadian PM fends off attacks in election debate

TORONTO (AP) — The leaders of Canada's four political parties faced off in the first debate Tuesday before a federal election next month, with Prime Minister Stephen Harper fending off attacks and asking Canadians for a majority government.

Analysts say main opposition Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff needed a strong showing to have a chance in the May 2 election. Ignatieff didn't shake Harper and he stumbled over his prepared lines.

Polls say Harper looks set for a third term. This time he is asking voters to give him a majority in the 308-member House of Commons; he has avoided that previously, wary of being accused of right-wing overreach.

Harper said Canada should …