The last one was dropped from debating, because media profit from it and do not like to be focussed on by the public. Liberal and NDP ran on other two top issues set by the media and pollsters. And, they failed. These top issues did not get the most popular votes even indicating that pollsters and media were projecting false statements to mislead people, and that in itself is a criminal offense under the present laws of the land. Now it is up to the public and government to pursue this matter and bring the media and pollsters to justice.
Reasons are many.
Mike Harris was cornered to take up issues others than those advocated by the media and union leaders. It was a blessing in disguise for Mike Harris. The leaders of the opposition parties have to abandon the usual vacation mode in between election time if they want to get elected to govern. Only working hard just before the election won't do the job. They have to attend to concerns of the society constantly to gain public confidence unless they bank only on the protest votes.