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The upcoming federal election presents challenges for those of us who are very concerned about the direction that Stephen Harper is proposing for Canada. In almost every riding we have a set of often reasonable alternatives to his mean-spirited and socially divisive approach – alternatives espoused by the Liberals, New Democrats, Greens (and in Quebec, the Bloc).

Tactical voting is important. While I find the NDP’s opposition to a carbon tax appalling, and I view Elizabeth May as the Ralph Nader of Canada (given Stephane Dion’s environmental commitments), I still would not hesitate to vote NDP if I thought that the party had the best chance for electoral success in a given riding (I don’t think the Greens have a good chance of electoral success in any riding, and, as a consequence, I wouldn’t vote for them).

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A recent poll revealed that Canadians have quite differing levels of trust when it comes to different professions. While nurses and teachers enjoy the trust of more than 75 per cent of the public, politicians are highly trusted by a meagre 14 per cent.
It is in this climate of mistrust and suspicion that you must enter your nomination papers, hopeful of the opportunity to serve the people of Bowen Island. Unfortunately, if you are one of the first six who surge past the post on November 15th a few even more significant obstacles will be placed in your path.

Beware the Financial Rewards and Perks of High Office:

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