The longest Canadian federal election in modern times is finally winding down.
It has been a tedious run for voters, who have seen inundated with political rhetoric from all sides for week, upon week, upon week.
In an era of immediate contact via numerous social media platforms, plus the long standing media coverage of any election, it has been a deluge of information.
To be frank it was too much, the one thing most voters can actually agree upon.
The protracted election turned this election into one many seem disappointed in, not because of its length, but the tactics used in the election.
While there are important issues Canadians should be focused on; the economy and what the current mini-recession really is, the environment and the short term needs to minimize the effects of longer term climate change, employment, homeless, missing women and others.
And while some of the issues have had at least some attention from the federal leaders and their parties, it is an election which will be remembered for some issues and tactics not typical for recent Canadian elections.
There has been elements of fear and distrust brought to the forefront by the policies put forward by some parties, and the reaction of the other parties. It has created a definite divisiveness among voters that seems frankly meaner and darker than issues in previous elections.
But, finally Monday the people this election is about get their say.
Elections are for the people, and we do have the final say by what we decide by putting little ‘Xs’ on our ballots.
There are certainly some who have all but tuned-out the exceedingly long election, but come Monday we all need to get back into the game.
Our votes are important.
The right to vote is a cornerstone of democracy, and while the trend has been to lower voter turnout, it remains our duty to head to the polls.
With the important issues of this election, and the darker elements to deal with, it is now up to each of us to envision the Canada we want, and vote for the local candidate and party we feel fulfills our individual visions of this country.
So Monday, take time to do your duty and vote, it is an important act which does impact your country’s future.
