To save his government, Martin struck a deal with the NDP, under former leader Jack Layton, which included $4.6 billion in additional spending on social programs. “Certainly Martin was under enormous pressure and Jack was very good at seizing opportunity,” said Libby Davies, NDP House leader from 2003 to 2011. The episode ended with a dramatic tied vote in the House of Commons, with the Speaker casting the deciding vote that saved the government.