Political wives have popped up on the Canadian campaign trail, adding a personal dimension to a tight race, but none come close to the visibility or influence of spouses like Michelle Obama.
The partners of Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Liberal leader Justin Trudeau and New Democrat leader Thomas Mulcair have helped humanize their husbands' images but retain mostly bit parts in the 11-week campaign to the Oct. 19 election.
"Trust me, apart from the kids, your energy just feeds him when he's out on the road so long," said Sophie Gregoire, encouraging thousands of cheering partisans as she introduced Trudeau in Brampton, Ontario, last weekend.