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I just learned that the most recent polls show that the Ford Progressive Conservative party is expected to be returned to office with virtually the same number of seats as last time.
Despite the large PC majority, only 18.8 per cent of Ontarians voted for them last time — the lowest turnout in election history. What does it take to get people to participate fully in democracy, utilize their vote and really reconsider their traditional choices?
Mr. Ford called this election unnecessarily early to take advantage of our anxiety over Trump’s tariffs and, conveniently, it is being held a week before the tariffs are supposed to go into effect. He has steadfastly kept this election to that single issue, barely giving lip service to the other real problems Ontario faces.
In spite of all his, and Team Canada’s, efforts, we know we are, in all probability, going to face tariffs. Every party’s leader is aware of those stakes and will do their very best for the country and province. Our choices are limited, so their responses will be similar. But, at least the other parties acknowledge that we need more than a one-note platform, so they have laid out their plans for education, healthcare, housing, among other things.
Ford is promising more of the same and has directed all PC candidates not to take part in local debates or comment on local issues, so we have no opportunity to question them. Mr. Ford has shown himself capable of making some very poor decisions in his six years in office — many very costly ones, to the environment, to education, to our medical system, to taxpayers.
Are you so sure that we can afford more of the same during these upcoming, difficult years?
This year, with the stake so high, at least we should have a massive voter turnout. Make sure you have considered all the party platforms well; make an informed decision on who is best now, and be sure to cast your ballot on election day, Thursday.
Janet Campbell
Orillia
