sentences:  In addition, the "Halifax Chronicle-Herald" reported that unidentified "Dion loyalists" were accusing Michael Ignatieff supporters of undermining by-election efforts.Though Ignatieff phoned up Dion to deny the allegations, "The Globe and Mail" suggested that the report had a negative impact on the Liberals' morale, citing the NDP's widening lead after the article's release.The by-election was seen as a crucial test for Dion's leadership, as the Liberals were attempting to regain popularity in Quebec since the loss during the 2006 federal elections.