Voters go to the polls in two weeks, but it’s been an unusually quiet provincial campaign, so far.
We wouldn’t blame you if you hadn’t noticed the May 14 election approaching, despite the smattering of signs around town, or if you don’t care.
Some do.
About two thirds of B.C. residents watched at least some of the televised leaders’ debate Monday, according to an online poll.
But those walking the streets in downtown Maple Ridge the day after didn’t think the debate changed much.
The level of voter apathy is apparent in the void of opinions regarding the 40th provincial general election.
People just aren’t talking about it much.
It’s not that the issues – from jobs and the economy to government spending and the environment, natural resources and pipelines – aren’t important.
It could be, in part, the fact the NDP has led in the polls so decisively – more than 10 points – for much of the past year, disdain for the current governing regime stemming from controversies such as introduction and removal of the HST.
It is that, we think, but also the politicians and the parties themselves.
Rarely do candidates stray from the party talking points they’re handed.
Whether listening to the leaders on TV, radio or candidates at a local meeting, none of them really answer a question. They respond with rhetoric or an attack.
The mostly hotly discussed topic the past few days was whether or not the premier was right or wrong for stopping, then driving through a red light on way to a 5 a.m. hockey practice for her son.
There is no true debate, no discussion on the issues. Sometimes there is silence, which is somehow seen as a strategy, as safe.
And that’s what politics has become – slick, refined.
But we shouldn’t accept that. We shouldn’t elect trained seals. Voters should show up at meetings and ask the questions they want answers to, hold our elected representatives and hopefuls to account.
Democracy requires participation.
We want more of that from our candidates, too – more honest and passionate debate, and some original thought.
– The News