Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced official start of Canada’s 42 general election vowing to stay the course even as the country’s economy continues to tumble.

Harper blamed China and the US for Canada’s economic troubles as the Statistics Canada announced that the country’s economy shrank for the fifth month in a row in May.

“China is going through a difficult period. US growth is lower than expected,” Harper said. “We will stay the course in Canada. That will be this government’s top priority.”

He said going with the “other guys” is too risky.

“Now is not the time for risky economic schemes,” Harper said. “This is no time for risky plans. It’s time to stay the course and stick to our plan.”

When asked why he was going for an unprecedented seven-week campaign that will cost taxpayers at least 50% more, Harper claimed that the he intended the parties, not Canadians, to foot the bill.

“Parties were already aware of the election dates,” Harper said. “It’s essential that we launch our election now and the parties abide by the rules and not use government or parliamentary resources.”

The Prime Minister failed to mention that taxpayers will be subsidizing the parties 50 cents on the dollar, and the candidates 60 cents on the dollar.

Harper also said that the Conservatives were the best to keep Canada safe in dangerous world.

“There are increasing risks in an ever changing world,” he said. “ISIS is carrying out terrible acts. This is posing a direct threat to us.”

“Our government is taking the difficult decision to strengthen the laws for security.” Harper said. “It’s not a matter of choosing inexperienced governance or political correctness.”

Harper said the economic turbulence was “temporary” Responding to a reporters question as to why Canadians should continue to trust Harper even when his government has been running deficits seven years in a row, and one this year according to parliamentary budget officer.

“Canada already has a balanced budget,” Harper said. “There was a surplus in the first few months. Our results are even better now.”