Voting in the 44th federal election is now over.
As I write this on Monday night, the results are starting to roll in. If you are like me – a political junkie – watching the computer and TV screen as results come in is like a rollercoaster ride.
That is, after all, what a Canadian election is – a 40- or 50-day rollercoaster.
This year’s election had me struggling with how to vote. I had a preferred candidate, but I did not agree with the views of their party leader. I had a preferred party but did not feel the local candidate was right for our riding. Then there was one candidate that I wanted to “vote against” – meaning I wanted my vote to ensure this candidate did not get in.
Normally, my mind is made up before going to the polls. This time, not so much.
As I waited in line on Monday morning to vote, I continued to weigh the pros and cons of each candidate and eventually made my decision.
And now that the election is – for the most part – behind us, we can move on and gear up for the municipal election next year.
However, before we put a bow on the federal election, one thing needs to be said to all those who put their names forward and were on the ballot: thank you.
Thank you for putting your names forward, and for standing up for what you and your party believe in (whether I share those beliefs or not).
It is a huge commitment to put your name on the ballot, especially in a federal election where emotions run high based on the colour of your sign and who the leader of your political party is. It takes a certain personality, a certain mindset and toughness, to handle the pressure of being a candidate.
Regardless of your political views or how many votes you received on Monday night, you are to be commended for simply being on the ballot and seeing the campaign through.
The volunteers and families of each candidate are also to be commended. As the saying goes, “it takes a village.” Without the support of these people, a candidate is merely a name on a piece of paper. The signs don’t put themselves in the ground and on front lawns, and the doors don’t get knocked on themselves during a campaign.
And the people working at the polling stations also deserve a pat on the back this year. They had to deal with COVID restrictions, long lines on election day (and chances are, some grumpy voters as well), and did so with a smile on their faces.
While the timing of the election may not have been convenient, we are fortunate that we live in a country where voting is encouraged. Hell, we take voting for granted here in Canada.
We are fortunate that when an election is called, anyone can step up to be a candidate. We are fortunate that anyone who is a Canadian citizen can vote, regardless of their race, sexual orientation or religious beliefs.
And we are fortunate that we can do so regularly.
Regardless of the official outcome of the 44th federal election, be thankful that you were able to have your say and cast your vote.
And to those who didn’t vote and are complaining, there’s always the 45th federal election in a few years. All are welcome to vote.
***
Mike Wilson is the editor of Midwestern Newspapers. Comments and feedback are welcome at mwilson@midwesternnewspapers.com.
