Like any election, issues come to the forefront, and this one is no different. Normally one or two issues end up defining the campaign and although we really haven't had a headline grabbing issue yet, here are a few of the ones that are shaping the debate:

* the economy - especially in light of the downturn (recession?) that's happening the US
* the environment - climate change, carbon tax, cap-and-trade
* leadership - a favourite of Harper and Layton right now - who is more fit for the job of PM?

Here's a few issues that haven't really gotten that much attention (yet):

* Afghanistan - foreign policy generally has less impact on a domestic federal election
* Quebec - although not front-page news, Quebec will always get special attention
* healthcare

And then there are the ones that pop up every now and then:

* crime - related to handguns, gang-related activity
* culture - usually revolves around funding (or lack thereof) for Canadian artists

Just a smattering for you to think about