When there is low voter turnout during an election, are we truly expressing the will of the people? It is so important to express your opinion — your choice — and vote during any election, especially one that will change the face of the country. But what can be done for those who are disenchanted or who feel indifferent?
Part of that problem is that there has been a decline in electoral participation among the younger voters. Which means that a vital part of our society is not making their voice heard.
It has become harder and harder to keep the interest of young voters in politics — and it is hard to keep them invested when the majority of candidates vying for election seats are well beyond that age range.
The other part of the problem is keeping the interest of the rest of the general public.
It is true that this year’s federal election is one of the longest in Canadian history. And the lengthy 78-day federal election campaign will pose many challenges to keep the attention of voters.
It is also true that the 78-day campaign means that political parties running candidates in all 338 federal ridings could spend up to $54.5 million — over double that is allowed in a 37-day campaign. For many voters that is a lot of funds that could go to valuable and needed programs across the country.
There have also been concerns that newly created voting identification provisions of the Fair Elections Act was an act of voter suppression. A voter needs to have photo identification with their current address to vote in the federal election. But what about those who do not have access to such documentation?
By eliminating vouching and the information card there are several voters who lack the necessary identification that shows their identity and address to allow them to vote. The groups most vulnerable from these changes are youth, First Nations, and marginalized people like the homeless and seniors.
The Fair Elections Act also means that Elections Canada itself is no longer able to run advertising campaigns encouraging people to vote. On one hand it is good that Elections Canada will focus its communications on the specifics of voting such as how to become a candidate; how to get on the list of electors; how to vote; what is needed to vote; and the services available to assist voters with disabilities.
However who will motivate the voters to get to the polls? Each political party must be pressed harder to target the potential voters who feel forgotten and especially work to engage issues that are important to young people.
At the local level, right here in Weyburn, the Chamber of Commerce is giving voters a prime opportunity to get informed through the All Candidates Forum, which will be held on Wednesday, September 23.
This forum is an opportunity for all the candidates vying to be the Member of Parliament to answer questions from the Chamber and the general public.
It is important to get informed about the topics, the parties and the candidates — and then vote!
