I'm going to start with what I said on Facebook after the election was over:
Canada has spoken. Whether you like the results or not, this is our new reality. For those who don't like it, you can either stomp your feet in the corner, claiming the world is coming to an end. Or you can suck it up and fight for what you feel is important. Fight for justice and good policy in light of a new government's failings. But let's not forget to celebrate Canada's successes as well. Those on the left felt a Conservative government would ruin this country 10 years ago. We, as a nation, did pretty well, I'd say. The roles are reversed now. Just like we did then, let's put politics aside now and work together to keep this country as wonderful as it always has been.
I would like to add something to that sentiment. For those who are celebrating the results of last Monday's election, you also can't sit on your high horse and expect the accolades to pour in. You are in for a long four years (or so) of constantly having to prove yourself, to show that your vision for Canada was in fact the best, and that this was a decision based on that vision and not just to get another party out of power. Because your true colours will ultimately determine whether this country continues to thrive or not.
I'll step off my pedestal now and talk about a few observations about this election:
#1. All-Candidates Forums
Is it safe to say that the all-candidates forum is quickly becoming a thing of the past? While I understand the value it can hold (especially when it comes to determining who can work well under fire, who can talk in front of crowds, etc), the point of these gatherings has quickly been lost, especially here in Alberta. If showing up to these forums actually mattered, many MPs wouldn't have jobs right now. The other thing is that these gatherings have become nothing more than partisan grandstanding. Most people in attendance already know who they're voting for, and they've only shown up to either rip on the other candidates or act as cheerleaders for their candidates. I haven't met very many people who have gone in with an open mind and said "that forum really helped change or make up my mind." I whole-heartedly agree with how it is important to the democratic process, but I can also see how some candidates wouldn't want to take part.
#2. The West's Relevancy
I joked on Twitter that the national TV networks would have their projections and have their elections called by 7:35pm MST. And I wasn't that far off (I think it was 7:37). If this election did anything, it brought us back to the 90's, where the results of the west really didn't matter because Ontario and Quebec spoke in relative unison. Admittedly, it was a little frustrating to see that, but I do understand representation by population, to a certain extent. But look at the provincial election. 360,000 people voted for the Wildrose, who ended up with 21 seats. 413,000 people voted for the PC's, who ended up with 10 seats (well...9 because Prentice didn't stick around to sit in the seat). That's right, the PC's actually got more votes than the Wildrose, but the Wildrose ended up with double the seats. That's what happens when the Wildrose cleans up in the rural areas and the PC's finished 2nd in the cities. Is that really appropriate representation in the legislature? It's an argument that's gone on since this system began. Here's an idea: each party gives you 100 of its best candidates to man the 100 seats in the House of Commons. They give you a depth chart of sorts, including who would sit in what cabinet post. Then on election day, voters truly vote for the party. If the winning party gets 44% of the vote, they will send their top 44 to the House. If one is caught breaking the law or something else that's untoward, we don't hold a byelection. We kick that MP out and we bring up the next person on the depth chart from the OTHER guys. So for example, if a Liberal MP is booted, a Conservative (official opposition) gets to replace that MP. If it's someone from the official opposition getting turfed, they are replaced by the third party, and so on. It's like recall legislation, only less costly for the taxpayer and makes parties really think hard about who they want in their inner-circle. The one downside is that you don't have a "local" voice in Ottawa, which I sympathize with. But maybe that's where we start depending more on our provincial governments to be our advocates. Because we see it far too often, where we feel like MPs are more "Ottawa's representative in this riding" more than "this riding's representative in Ottawa." I've said it before: I'd rather have an MP in opposition who works for me than have an MP in government who works for his party.
#3. And then there was Alberta...
Something really weird has happened in Alberta. In May, we voted for a leftist NDP government, yet in Monday's federal election, the majority of the province took another right and went with Conservatives. Talk about two opposite ends of the spectrum. So now you have a provincial government (NDP) trying to cozy up with Alberta's MPs (Conservatives) to make sure our best interests are being looked after in Ottawa, which is now run by another majority government (Liberals). Holy moly. Makes for some really interesting discussions over whether you can or whether you should put partisan politics aside. You should, given all of these politicians have been elected to serve the best interests of Albertans and Canadians. That being said, you can't just bend over backwards just to get along. I reckon the conversations behind closed doors are going to be quite animated as all three sides try to figure out how to best govern what many still consider to be the "economic engine" of this country.
That got long-winded in a hurry. I don't say it often, but thanks for reading this blog. I'm always amazed seeing how many people actually take the time to at least read a few sentences of my sometimes-coherent rambling. If there's a topic you'd like for me to chat about, political, sports or otherwise, don't hesitate to drop me a line: radiofriendlyjoe@yahoo.ca.
Sunday, October 25, 2015
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Don't Know Who To Vote For?
It's amazing the number of texts, messages and outright conversations I've had in the last few days surrounding the federal election. The main theme of these communications has been the same: "I don't know who to vote for."
This has been a LONG campaign. Longest in Canadian history. And for those who have been paying attention the whole time, the fatigue factor is starting to set in. Many have heard more than enough reasons to not only vote FOR each party, but also more than enough reasons NOT to vote for each party. And that seems to have frustrated a lot of people. So I'm here to provide some advice to any of you who have been thinking about how they were going to cast their ballot, and for those who were a little confused on how to do so.
#1. Find What Resonates With You
Think about your own life and determine what's important to you. Is it strong finances? Is it a strong moral compass? Is it child care? Find some issues that look like they are going to be affecting you in the next few years. Then look at each party's platform and determine which one seems to jive with your own belief system. Chances are, each party is going to have a couple of things you disagree with. But that's almost to be expected. Don't let the little things deter you from voting for or against a certain party. No party is going to be perfect for everyone, and the minute you start nitpicking is the minute that you quickly realize you won't be able to vote for any of the parties.
#2. Find Which Candidate Resonates With You
If you're still at a loss when it comes to the parties or the leaders, then it's time to look at each of the candidates in your own riding. Now, I would argue this should be your primary concern, because as I've said before, there's no way any party will remain accountable if you're not keeping all of the candidates accountable. That being said, do some research on your local candidates. Answer the door when they knock. Get to see which of them impresses you. Don't let them over-promise. Make them be realistic with you. And make them show you why they would help represent you in Ottawa. I have no doubt that each party has all-stars, who are willing to do the best for their constituents. And if you think a strong voice in Ottawa is more important than someone who tows party lines just to stay in the "inner circle", this might be the recommendation for you.
#3. Find A Reason To Vote FOR Something/Someone
I've been on a bit of a crusade of late, with my key message being that I would rather vote FOR something rather than AGAINST something else. I really believe everyone should find that reason. And that reason should be FOR you. I'm glad that people where their political stripes on their sleeves, but it won't be affecting the way I vote at the end of the day, nor should it affect you. Maybe it's the economy and jobs. Maybe it's social issues. Maybe it's that you like the way a certain candidate handles the pressure and the questions you ask. The important thing is that you ask those questions and find the answers that you're looking for. You might end up being surprised where you find the good answers. Don't depend on everyone else to get the answers for you. Get it straight from the horse's mouth. And who cares if someone doesn't like the way you're voting. It's your vote. It's your chance to take part in the democratic process.
I could try to tell you who to vote for. But I play a mean devil's advocate and would do my best to poke holes in every single argument. Plus, my opinion shouldn't matter at the end of the day. It's your opinion that matters on October 19th. The only opinion I'll share is that I hope everyone takes a minute to get informed, find a reason to vote for someone, and then casts their ballot. A message will never get sent to politicians unless the electorate mails the letter.
This has been a LONG campaign. Longest in Canadian history. And for those who have been paying attention the whole time, the fatigue factor is starting to set in. Many have heard more than enough reasons to not only vote FOR each party, but also more than enough reasons NOT to vote for each party. And that seems to have frustrated a lot of people. So I'm here to provide some advice to any of you who have been thinking about how they were going to cast their ballot, and for those who were a little confused on how to do so.
#1. Find What Resonates With You
Think about your own life and determine what's important to you. Is it strong finances? Is it a strong moral compass? Is it child care? Find some issues that look like they are going to be affecting you in the next few years. Then look at each party's platform and determine which one seems to jive with your own belief system. Chances are, each party is going to have a couple of things you disagree with. But that's almost to be expected. Don't let the little things deter you from voting for or against a certain party. No party is going to be perfect for everyone, and the minute you start nitpicking is the minute that you quickly realize you won't be able to vote for any of the parties.
#2. Find Which Candidate Resonates With You
If you're still at a loss when it comes to the parties or the leaders, then it's time to look at each of the candidates in your own riding. Now, I would argue this should be your primary concern, because as I've said before, there's no way any party will remain accountable if you're not keeping all of the candidates accountable. That being said, do some research on your local candidates. Answer the door when they knock. Get to see which of them impresses you. Don't let them over-promise. Make them be realistic with you. And make them show you why they would help represent you in Ottawa. I have no doubt that each party has all-stars, who are willing to do the best for their constituents. And if you think a strong voice in Ottawa is more important than someone who tows party lines just to stay in the "inner circle", this might be the recommendation for you.
#3. Find A Reason To Vote FOR Something/Someone
I've been on a bit of a crusade of late, with my key message being that I would rather vote FOR something rather than AGAINST something else. I really believe everyone should find that reason. And that reason should be FOR you. I'm glad that people where their political stripes on their sleeves, but it won't be affecting the way I vote at the end of the day, nor should it affect you. Maybe it's the economy and jobs. Maybe it's social issues. Maybe it's that you like the way a certain candidate handles the pressure and the questions you ask. The important thing is that you ask those questions and find the answers that you're looking for. You might end up being surprised where you find the good answers. Don't depend on everyone else to get the answers for you. Get it straight from the horse's mouth. And who cares if someone doesn't like the way you're voting. It's your vote. It's your chance to take part in the democratic process.
I could try to tell you who to vote for. But I play a mean devil's advocate and would do my best to poke holes in every single argument. Plus, my opinion shouldn't matter at the end of the day. It's your opinion that matters on October 19th. The only opinion I'll share is that I hope everyone takes a minute to get informed, find a reason to vote for someone, and then casts their ballot. A message will never get sent to politicians unless the electorate mails the letter.
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