Election time in Regina, and maybe Canada!
I just love election time. I could go on and on about how I would love nothing more than a switch to proportional representation, and how voting directly supports an electoral system that I think is antiquated and detrimental to democracy in Canada. I could talk about how my vote doesn’t count federally because I happen to live in Saskatchewan. But I won’t! Instead I will confess that I always embarrass myself slightly when I go to vote in an election because I’m one of few people that has a *huge* grin on their face at the prospect of participating in direct democracy… in theory!
I will also confess having a great deal of interest in the various elections that are right around the corner. The Douglas-Park by-election in Regina is this month, and it’s a hot race. Even further, there’s been some *hot* talk coming out of Ottawa as of late. Our Prime Minister has said openly that what Canada needs is stability; not another election. (CBC, 08/31/09) Ignatieff stated in an address today that the Conservative Party of Canada could not be supported. Now, here’s the question of the hour…
Should Harper just call the election? Or wait until such a time comes when he is forced into an election via a confidence vote in the House of Commons?
Maybe Harper is looking at the polls and thinking that he’s better off calling an election now, rather than risking a possible further drop in the polls later. Force the Liberal hand, so to speak, and take his chances. But wait! Didn’t Harper just talk about the importance of stability? Conversely, are the Liberals in a strong enough position to win the next election? Is Harper? The NDP and the Bloc Quebecois have stated clearly that they no longer support the Harper Conservatives.
I will be watching this unfold with baited breath! Thoughts, anyone?
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About Stacey: Stacey is a University of Regina grad in political science. She's interested in electoral politics, poverty, and how we all interact. In her day job, she works closely with industry in Saskatchewan. Personally, her interests range from critical race theory to particle physics and cooking. When she grows up, she wants to change the world! |
I really don’t want a federal election.
You don’t want a federal election? Are you satisfied with the current lay of the land in Ottawa these days? Or is it the two blocks to go and vote that have soured you? ; D
In realist terms, Harper should not call the election. His whole strategy is to make the Liberals look responsable for an election that will cost the tax payer sweet precious money. Neo-conservatism 101- Kill the Opposition.
I want an election. Regardless of the result, neither ruling party will likely get a majority. This leaves the NDP and the Bloc in a good position to bargain, and be considered in government decisions. Lastly, I want Harper or Ignatieff to know that -no- Canadians are comfortable with politics in Canada right now. this way we can hopefully avoid the most atrocious policies like that one threatening to take away the main source of funding from every party but the Conservatives.