Thank you for everyone that voted in the last Federal election. Remember, not everyone in the world this privilege.
This election presents a great opportunity for Canadians and Albertans. The numbers alone will force all the parties to cooperation and all parties will have a real voice.
If you’re a Liberal, you have enough power that you only need [three] seats from any party to get your legislation passed. If you’re a Conservative, you can work with the other parties to hold the Liberals accountable. If you’re a Green or NDP then the other parties are almost guaranteed to at least consult you. And if you live in any place other than Quebec, you are rejoicing that a sovereigntist party cannot hold the rest of the Country hostage.
All concerns were represented in this election. If you’re primary concern was Mr. Trump and believed that Mr. Carney was the best person to represent Canada, then you have your man. If your primary concern was boosting resource development and exports, then you already have stated support from Mr. Carney for legislation and energy projects. If your primary concern was protecting social programs, then you still have a voice. And if you are concerned that the environment has been forgotten, at least there is one seat still in government that allows you to punch way above your weight.
There was also talk about removal of inter provincial trade barriers, taking real steps to transform the Canadian Military, all parties made a commitment to the economy and all the parties stated a united commitment to deal with Mr. Trump.
Also, the popular vote was essentially a tie between the Liberals and Conservatives throughout Canada.
Of course, the opposite may be true. The Liberals could try to bully the other parties, and the opposition could only focus on overthrowing the Liberals. But I think people realize that Canada does not have time to ‘play politics’ right now and our politicians know that, so I’m optimistic that we can start working together.
The biggest risk for me is the potential of Canada becoming a two-party system. I have NO interest in replicating the US political circus of the Republicans vs. the Democrats in Canada. Canada must do better and hopefully this election focuses our politicians that the tribal politics in the US do not work in Canada.
I’m optimistic that balanced legislation and actions can take place. It’s a matter of perspective; this election could be great for Canada, if we allow it. I guess only time will tell.
Dan Cunin
Cochrane, AB
