General Election Predictions

[The Blue Tory]

What do you think will happen in the next General Election?

Are the Canadian voters finished with forgiving a government that has been involved in so many scandals, thus turning to the CPC?


My thoughts are that the Liberals will suffer... All the "boondoggles" and scandals have annoyed Canadians for the last time... I predict the Bloc will thrive in Quebec, taking the Liberal seats, the CPC will maintain a stranglehold on the west, while taking the majority of Ontario. When the dust has settled, the CPC will end up with a minority government, with the Liberals or Bloc heading the opposition

[UnluckyLove]

What do you think will happen in the next General Election?

Are the Canadian voters finished with forgiving a government that has been involved in so many scandals, thus turning to the CPC?


My thoughts are that the Liberals will suffer... All the "boondoggles" and scandals have annoyed Canadians for the last time... I predict the Bloc will thrive in Quebec, taking the Liberal seats, the CPC will maintain a stranglehold on the west, while taking the majority of Ontario. When the dust has settled, the CPC will end up with a minority government, with the Liberals or Bloc heading the opposition

I think ppl are thru with the liberals now, after all of the scandals etc, so i think that the CPC are definitely going to do well. Liberals might be let down this election...

EC

[BMaloney]

I agree that most voters are fed up with the Liberals but first you have to look at the alternatives.

Conservatives: Stephen Harper? Don't make me laugh.

NDP: Not much to say here..

Bloc: Ha! Very humorous.

[The Blue Tory]

I agree that most voters are fed up with the Liberals but first you have to look at the alternatives.

Conservatives: Stephen Harper? Don't make me laugh.

NDP: Not much to say here..

Bloc: Ha! Very humorous.

Why do you say that about Harper?

What makes you think that?

[TBird]

Why do you say that about Harper?

What makes you think that?

I think Harper is an idiot and a waste of my time. I'd likely support them if it wasn't that homphobic fool leading the party. I'll be voting Liberal (if I'm old enough to vote), and I'm a Liberal Party member now too...

My bet is a Liberal minority, then it won't last 5 years and unless they really screw something up (like the scandal) they should be back with a majority.

[Engie]

You have to be 19 for the Federal Election and 18 for the Provincial election, well in BC at least for the provincial.

[TBird]

You have to be 19 for the Federal Election and 18 for the Provincial election, well in BC at least for the provincial.

It's 18 for both.

[The Blue Tory]

I think Harper is an idiot and a waste of my time. I'd likely support them if it wasn't that homphobic fool leading the party. I'll be voting Liberal (if I'm old enough to vote), and I'm a Liberal Party member now too...

My bet is a Liberal minority, then it won't last 5 years and unless they really screw something up (like the scandal) they should be back with a majority.

1. Harper is not homophobic
2. Fool is a harsh word, considering you have never sat down and listened to him or his ideas
3. You vote for the party's candidate running in your riding, you don't vote for PM, the members of the party vote for the leader, who may become the PM if the party wins the election, hence is why you don't see the leader's name on the ballot (unless you live in a party leader's riding).

Also you should vote for the party that has the most agreeable platform to you, while also considering the recent history of the governing party.

Based on the past 11 years:
A vote for the Liberals, is a vote for a weak military. A vote for the Liberals, is a vote for bills like the Gun Registry which waste millions of our money. A vote for the Liberals, is a vote for backdoor deals. A vote for the Liberals, is a vote against the beef farmers. A vote for the Liberals, is a vote for an undemocratic Senate. A vote for the Liberals, is a vote for corruption.

[Insane Power Pilot]

Well, I'll be casting my vote for the CPC, but here's how I think it's going to go:

Liberal: 120
Conservative: 112
Bloc Quebecois: 44
New Democratic Party: 32

I just made those up off the top of my head and they aren't meant to seriously represent any opinion polls that have been done. If anyone wants, I can break it down province by provicne too. My reasoning: The Liberals are facing quite a scandal right now, but it never ceases to amaze me how resiliant the Liberal Party is, and how easily people forget. To date, the Liberals have flushed $7 billion of your money, but they are still hovering around 39-40% in the polls, even at the worst of it. Harper is not going to win over any support in Atlantic Canada, and I think about half of the Progressive Conservative incumbents in that region may be defeated, which will just add to the opinion that the CPC is just a Canadian Alliance takeover. That said, the Conservatives under Harper will sweep the west and an impressive chunk of Ontario. I really took liberty with the Conservative seats, and I think the number I gave represents the best possible scenario. The Bloc Quebecois will also surge because of the Liberal scandals. NDP leader Jack Layton is hugely popular with many in the party, and many left-leaning voters and Red Tories will jump ship to the NDP seeing no viable left-wing alternative, as they believe Paul Martin will not make a good left-wing Prime Minister.

I think these numbers are comforting at best, in that the Liberals will no longer have a majority government and will not be able to form a coalition government with the NDP.

[The Blue Tory]

Well, I'll be casting my vote for the CPC, but here's how I think it's going to go:

Liberal: 120
Conservative: 112
Bloc Quebecois: 44
New Democratic Party: 32

I just made those up off the top of my head and they aren't meant to seriously represent any opinion polls that have been done. If anyone wants, I can break it down province by provicne too. My reasoning: The Liberals are facing quite a scandal right now, but it never ceases to amaze me how resiliant the Liberal Party is, and how easily people forget. To date, the Liberals have flushed $7 billion of your money, but they are still hovering around 39-40% in the polls, even at the worst of it. Harper is not going to win over any support in Atlantic Canada, and I think about half of the Progressive Conservative incumbents in that region may be defeated, which will just add to the opinion that the CPC is just a Canadian Alliance takeover. That said, the Conservatives under Harper will sweep the west and an impressive chunk of Ontario. I really took liberty with the Conservative seats, and I think the number I gave represents the best possible scenario. The Bloc Quebecois will also surge because of the Liberal scandals. NDP leader Jack Layton is hugely popular with many in the party, and many left-leaning voters and Red Tories will jump ship to the NDP seeing no viable left-wing alternative, as they believe Paul Martin will not make a good left-wing Prime Minister.

I think these numbers are comforting at best, in that the Liberals will no longer have a majority government and will not be able to form a coalition government with the NDP.

I guarantee you... THE LIBERALS WILL NOT WIN MISSISSAUGA-ERINDALE... Dechert will slaughter Parrish...

[TBird]

1. Harper is not homophobic

He sure acts like it...


2. Fool is a harsh word, considering you have never sat down and listened to him or his ideas

Actually I had the misfortune of hearing him speak in Ottawa last year, it only cemented my opinion....


3. You vote for the party's candidate running in your riding, you don't vote for PM, the members of the party vote for the leader, who may become the PM if the party wins the election, hence is why you don't see the leader's name on the ballot (unless you live in a party leader's riding).

Yeah we learn that in school here, plus it's just a given I suppose (one of those things you pick up over time.) However, I see it as there being three things that give you the privilage of my vote, and you have to have all of them

1. a leader that's not a homophobic fool
2. a platform that's decent (I dont expect everything from one party, it's unrealistic IMHO)
3. a local MP that's not a homophobic fool

I like the Liberal platofrm (I think their Defence and Post-Sec Education stuff sucks though), Paul Martin is a good guy and our local Liberal nominated runner is just awesome.


Also you should vote for the party that has the most agreeable platform to you, while also considering the recent history of the governing party.

Yeah they blew $250 million. Honestly I think that's terrible but I also think they're so scared it'll never happen again.


Based on the past 11 years:
A vote for the Liberals, is a vote for a weak military.

Yes, it is.


A vote for the Liberals, is a vote for bills like the Gun Registry which waste millions of our money.

There has NEVER been an effective Canadian gov't that hasn't made at least one stupid bill. Personally I think the Gun Registry is greeat, obviously not the price or implementation though. The Conservatives have made boondoggles in the past, they're not gifts from your applicable god...


A vote for the Liberals, is a vote for backdoor deals.

No, it's not. (I expnaded on that earlier)


A vote for the Liberals, is a vote against the beef farmers.

I'm not familair with that... I suppose I should educate myself.


A vote for the Liberals, is a vote for an undemocratic Senate.

Common sense dictates Paul Martin shouldn't mess anything with the constitution when Canada is looming on election. I have faith that he'll take legitimate efforts when he's reelected to reform the Senate, but again it won't be a snap-your-fingers approach. Just look at BC's Democratic Reform Council. That should take at least 2 years to create any realistic actions in BC's democracy.

[The Blue Tory]

He sure acts like it...



Actually I had the misfortune of hearing him speak in Ottawa last year, it only cemented my opinion....



Yeah we learn that in school here, plus it's just a given I suppose (one of those things you pick up over time.) However, I see it as there being three things that give you the privilage of my vote, and you have to have all of them

1. a leader that's not a homophobic fool
2. a platform that's decent (I dont expect everything from one party, it's unrealistic IMHO)
3. a local MP that's not a homophobic fool

I like the Liberal platofrm (I think their Defence and Post-Sec Education stuff sucks though), Paul Martin is a good guy and our local Liberal nominated runner is just awesome.



Yeah they blew $250 million. Honestly I think that's terrible but I also think they're so scared it'll never happen again.



Yes, it is.



There has NEVER been an effective Canadian gov't that hasn't made at least one stupid bill. Personally I think the Gun Registry is greeat, obviously not the price or implementation though. The Conservatives have made boondoggles in the past, they're not gifts from your applicable god...



No, it's not. (I expnaded on that earlier)



I'm not familair with that... I suppose I should educate myself.



Common sense dictates Paul Martin shouldn't mess anything with the constitution when Canada is looming on election. I have faith that he'll take legitimate efforts when he's reelected to reform the Senate, but again it won't be a snap-your-fingers approach. Just look at BC's Democratic Reform Council. That should take at least 2 years to create any realistic actions in BC's democracy.

Well... you are entitled to your opinion...

Lets see what everyone else says...

[Insane Power Pilot]

There has NEVER been an effective Canadian gov't that hasn't made at least one stupid bill. Personally I think the Gun Registry is greeat, obviously not the price or implementation though.

Obviously not indeed!

-the costs of implementation of Bill C-68 have exceeded the original $2 Million dollar estimate and are now projected at over $1 Billion,
-the Canadian Government failed to inform Parliament, and by extension the Canadian Taxpayers, of the 50,000% cost overrun of implementing Bill C-68,
-the RCMP recently announced that 25% of entries in their database were incorrect,
-the National Firearms Registry has done little to increase public safety,
-the Auditor General indicated in her report that, “the Program's focus had changed from high risk firearms owners to excessive regulation and enforcement of controls over all owners and their firearms.”
-the Auditor General further indicated in her report that, “The Department concluded that, as a result, the Program had become overly complex and very costly to deliver, and that it had become difficult for owners to comply with the Program.”

I'm also interested as to what made you believe Harper is homophobic.

[The Blue Tory]

Obviously not indeed!

-the costs of implementation of Bill C-68 have exceeded the original $2 Million dollar estimate and are now projected at over $1 Billion,
-the Canadian Government failed to inform Parliament, and by extension the Canadian Taxpayers, of the 50,000% cost overrun of implementing Bill C-68,
-the RCMP recently announced that 25% of entries in their database were incorrect,
-the National Firearms Registry has done little to increase public safety,
-the Auditor General indicated in her report that, “the Program's focus had changed from high risk firearms owners to excessive regulation and enforcement of controls over all owners and their firearms.”
-the Auditor General further indicated in her report that, “The Department concluded that, as a result, the Program had become overly complex and very costly to deliver, and that it had become difficult for owners to comply with the Program.”

I'm also interested as to what made you believe Harper is homophobic.

Don't forget the dramatic increase in firearm related murders in Toronto

[Coomber 535]

IMHO, as much as I am against wasting money on the dumb gun registry... I think we'd be better off with the Liberals. What gov't hasn't had any controversy? Nobody seems to keep tidy house. Does it matter that much?

No matter what happens, there will still be people who don't like it. You just need to grin and bear it. :D

Don't forget that an MP represents your community. Would you vote for some numpty, just because he's NOT Liberal?

But when I vote... I think I'll place my 'x' next to a liberal candidate.

[The Blue Tory]

IMHO, as much as I am against wasting money on the dumb gun registry... I think we'd be better off with the Liberals. What gov't hasn't had any controversy? Nobody seems to keep tidy house. Does it matter that much?

No matter what happens, there will still be people who don't like it. You just need to grin and bear it. :D

Don't forget that an MP represents your community. Would you vote for some numpty, just because he's NOT Liberal?

But when I vote... I think I'll place my 'x' next to a liberal candidate.

here in Mississauga Erindale... we are not being represented by our MP... Parrish since her ignorant anti-American comment which sparked controversy, has been ostrasized by the party... she's a backbencher, and has very little voice... my riding deserves better... thats why I'm going CPC...

This isn't a little dirt, this is gross legislative negligence... this is beyond... Canadians have to be less forgiving... If Ontario can ditch the Ontario PC's for less than this, I am sure the rest of Canada will follow suit and give the Liberals (or as they've been called, the Fiberals) the boot that they deserve

[Insane Power Pilot]

I agree that most voters are fed up with the Liberals but first you have to look at the alternatives.

Conservatives: Stephen Harper? Don't make me laugh.

NDP: Not much to say here..

Bloc: Ha! Very humorous.

Sorry to pick on you, Brian, but I'm just commenting on what I'm starting to see as a common theme here, even though your arguements against the opposition parties are very convincing. :p

Saying that "All governments have screwed up in the past, there is no alternative...why not the Liberals?" Well, the NDP and the Conservatives have never been in power before. The Progressive Conservative Party has, but they no longer exist, and the CPC is fairly different from the PCs as far as policy goes now.

Secondly, it is exactly this kind of thinking that leads to the creation of one-party states and/or stagnant democracy. If that's what you like for democracy, you should probably move to Russia. :p In the end, the choice you make on the ballot is completely yours, I'm just saying don't try to tell me that these other parties are not capable of governing this country.

[Caz]

It's not always about the party, it's about who's at the reins - and which civil servants haven't retired yet. Remember where the real power lays in how the country is run.

Prime Minister Martin just may be good for this country, and will likely have me voting *gasp* Liberal in the next election.

Face it, the Conservatives are a dead party in this country, and I can't support a leader who puts personal agenda ahead of social responsibility.

Yes, Jean-boy made messes, but so did Mulroney, and every PM that tread before. Remember when Kim Campbell lost the election in 1993? We were saying the same things about the PCs.

Perception is everything. Look at your alternatives.

Or, you could elect me dictator ;)

[The Blue Tory]

It's not always about the party, it's about who's at the reins - and which civil servants haven't retired yet. Remember where the real power lays in how the country is run.

Prime Minister Martin just may be good for this country, and will likely have me voting *gasp* Liberal in the next election.

Face it, the Conservatives are a dead party in this country, and I can't support a leader who puts personal agenda ahead of social responsibility.

Yes, Jean-boy made messes, but so did Mulroney, and every PM that tread before. Remember when Kim Campbell lost the election in 1993? We were saying the same things about the PCs.

Perception is everything. Look at your alternatives.

Or, you could elect me dictator ;)

Its time for a change...

The only way to stop the kind of crap the Liberals have called governing from happening, is by showing them the door...

Thats what happened to Mulroney, when he angered everyone's blood with his GST... so rightfully, Martin will face a fate similar to Campbell... NA NA NA NA... NA NA NA NA... HEY HEY HEY... GOODBYE!

[Neo]

These insults towards supporters of each party are for lack of a better word stupid. If you want to have a discussion about an election which may or may not occur, fine, do so. But, use facts and logical reasoning. Such Insults only prove the weakness in your arguments... and it makes you seem like a damn fools.


My Predicition is a small Liberal majority or a small Liberal Minority, supported by the NDP, here's why:

The Liberal Government has involved itself in many improper financial situations. This is why the Liberals may face slight resistance at the polls.
For the most part, the Liberal Gov't of the last 11 years has governed Canada well, we have Surplus after Surplus, and our National Debt (The byproduct of past Governments of all Parties) has shrunk.
The CPC is still young, and does not have either the electoral or political experience necessary to hold a government for any length of time.


Let's act like the young adults we claim to be...

[wb256]

Its time for a change...

The only way to stop the kind of crap the Liberals have called governing from happening, is by showing them the door...

Thats what happened to Mulroney, when he angered everyone's blood with his GST... so rightfully, Martin will face a fate similar to Campbell... NA NA NA NA... NA NA NA NA... HEY HEY HEY... GOODBYE!


Well, I'm glad we can all discuss politics rationally and maturly. Viewing this as a competition is silly, it's our nation's future.

Yes, the liberal government was caught up in some scandels...but lets face it, their only real crime was they got caught. Every government does this, and I'm not going to let it sway my decision too badly. Likewise, using mad cow to say liberals don't support canadian beef is ridiculous, it was their handling of one issue. I highly doubt they have a personal vendetta against the beef industry.

Also, the other policies that you attack are good ideas in many people's minds. Likewise, the policies of the party you're advocating are awful and ridiculous in many other people's eyes (that is, people who are not a member of this imagined "canadian" identity).

People of different cultural groups live here, and many others are cultural ambiguous (something I think all canadians should be free to be). Likewise, their suggested economic and social programs would likely worsen many crisises going on in canada at the moment (such as the living conditions of many native americans, relations with Quebec, economic relationships with the USA).

[grass_roots]

well I don't care to get wrapped up in this mess so I'll just state my vote for the upcomming elections:

Green Party of Canada

[The Blue Tory]

well I don't care to get wrapped up in this mess so I'll just state my vote for the upcomming elections:

Green Party of Canada

Well, at least your still exercising your right to vote... Thats a good thing... There should be more people like you who are willing to vote for a low profile party, instead of deciding not to vote because a vote for a non mainstream party could be considered meaningless...

If all the people who wanted to vote for a nonmainstream party but don't for fear of wasting their vote, voted for a nonmainstream party we could very well have Green Party or even the new Guiness party as the official opposition...

[Nick]

How about the Rhino party? Or the Martini party?

Personally, as I've been watching the politics these days, I find that we're in a sorry state of affairs having the leaders of our political parties doing some questionable things, as well as members of government (ie. scandals, etc).

My vote will be for our local candidate, with a consideration for who the Leader of the party is... And as of right now, we're not sure who's running, as our current MP is retiring, and there's no definite candidate for Liberals yet (that's our current).

We'll see what happens!

[grass_roots]

Well, at least your still exercising your right to vote... Thats a good thing... There should be more people like you who are willing to vote for a low profile party, instead of deciding not to vote because a vote for a non mainstream party could be considered meaningless...

If all the people who wanted to vote for a nonmainstream party but don't for fear of wasting their vote, voted for a nonmainstream party we could very well have Green Party or even the new Guiness party as the official opposition...

Guiness party of Cananda, haha, please do explain further.

But ya, I think this raises a very good point of not simply who to vote for but why to vote and what we base these decisions on.

I think Canadian Democrocy is in a VERY sad state, I believe the lack of democratic reform and accurate media coverage have totally broken our faith in the concept of the power of one. In the last general election only %61 of the eligable voting population turned out and if we look at the popular vote thier democratic wishes were not heard. Can you imagine if we had %100 voter turn-out and proportional representation(we are by the way one of only 2 Industrialised Democrocies without it)? Can you imagine if parties campaigned based on thier guiding values and complete platforms with complete transparency and not gimmicks and smoke screens? Can you imagine if the media switched thier election coverage priorities from political 'experts' and 'acurate' polls to giving a voice to the voting public and equal air time with a fixed budget for all registered national parties?

Who knows, maybe just a bunch of idealistic dribble but I'd like to believe that one day my vote will truley mean something, untill that day comes I plan on making full use of my democratic rights and voting as if that were the reality.

[wb256]

That's a very good way of looking at politics, but at the same time I'm quite concerned with keeping the CPC (or CA or CRAP or Reform party...I liked the 3rd option better) out of power. As much as I whole heartedly support everything the green party wants to do...I don't want to vote for them and take the gamble that a right wing party would come into power. Therefore, I have a choice of either NDP or Liberal...

This decision will be based on who is more likely to win in my riding over a CPC candidate.

And you can slander the way I choose to use my vote if you choose (I'm sure many CPC party advocates will), but in my opinion their platform is dangerous to canadian society as a whole and could potentially tear this country apart. Also, their stance on a variety of issues that are personal to me (homosexual marriage, foreign relations with the USA and marijuana legalization) are not appealing in the least to me.

[The Blue Tory]

That's a very good way of looking at politics, but at the same time I'm quite concerned with keeping the CPC (or CA or CRAP or Reform party...I liked the 3rd option better) out of power. As much as I whole heartedly support everything the green party wants to do...I don't want to vote for them and take the gamble that a right wing party would come into power. Therefore, I have a choice of either NDP or Liberal...

This decision will be based on who is more likely to win in my riding over a CPC candidate.

And you can slander the way I choose to use my vote if you choose (I'm sure many CPC party advocates will), but in my opinion their platform is dangerous to canadian society as a whole and could potentially tear this country apart. Also, their stance on a variety of issues that are personal to me (homosexual marriage, foreign relations with the USA and marijuana legalization) are not appealing in the least to me.

And wasting millions of Canadian tax dollars, making their friends rich, leaving the beef farmers stranded without aid for over a year, that gun registry, the ignorance to help with the salmon and the soft wood situations, the state of the military, and now the lack of a relief for the chicken farmers in BC, as well as harmed relations with our biggest trading partner... You are telling me that is not detrimental to the nation...

By the way this is a truly united party now... In many ridings grass root PC members are CPC candidates

Also don't you think it's funny how Martin is trying to downplay the ad sponsorship scandal, which he claims he knew nothing about, by appearing in new pre-election Liberal ads featuring himself...

[grass_roots]

And wasting millions of Canadian tax dollars, making their friends rich, leaving the beef farmers stranded without aid for over a year, that gun registry, the ignorance to help with the salmon and the soft wood situations, the state of the military, and now the lack of a relief for the chicken farmers in BC, as well as harmed relations with our biggest trading partner... You are telling me that is not detrimental to the nation...


I don't mean to belittle your opinion but I feel it is neccessary to point out that the majority of the issues which you have refferred to, well all of them really, are nothing more than sesationalised media headlines and while they do have some relevency in regards to isolated short-commings they don't accurately portray the broader issue of any given political platform and the affect it would have on the state of the nation if fully implimented. Tax breaks for the rich, free market and trickle down policies, increased military spending at the expense of social services, etc, etc, these are stated as policy and even defended by the party in question, a vastly different issue than the fumble with Mad Cows, etc, etc. And don't take that as me slagging the Conservitives, read it again if you have to but no where have I said anything subjective to tarnish thier reputation so don't counter with any sort of Liberal bashing response.

[The Blue Tory]

I don't mean to belittle your opinion but I feel it is neccessary to point out that the majority of the issues which you have refferred to, well all of them really, are nothing more than sesationalised media headlines and while they do have some relevency in regards to isolated short-commings they don't accurately portray the broader issue of any given political platform and the affect it would have on the state of the nation if fully implimented. Tax breaks for the rich, free market and trickle down policies, increased military spending at the expense of social services, etc, etc, these are stated as policy and even defended by the party in question, a vastly different issue than the fumble with Mad Cows, etc, etc. And don't take that as me slagging the Conservitives, read it again if you have to but no where have I said anything subjective to tarnish thier reputation so don't counter with any sort of Liberal bashing response.

Well... my opinions on the Federal Liberals have now been explained, no more need for me to go further...

If you are an undecided voter, without any political affiliation, go out and vote, go out and vote for the candidate you think will do their best to represent your riding.

By the way, this is turning into some debate

[Insane Power Pilot]

I think Canadian Democrocy is in a VERY sad state, I believe the lack of democratic reform and accurate media coverage have totally broken our faith in the concept of the power of one. In the last general election only %61 of the eligable voting population turned out and if we look at the popular vote thier democratic wishes were not heard. Can you imagine if we had %100 voter turn-out and proportional representation(we are by the way one of only 2 Industrialised Democrocies without it)? Can you imagine if parties campaigned based on thier guiding values and complete platforms with complete transparency and not gimmicks and smoke screens? Can you imagine if the media switched thier election coverage priorities from political 'experts' and 'acurate' polls to giving a voice to the voting public and equal air time with a fixed budget for all registered national parties?

I completely agree. First-past-the-post where somebody can win with less than 50% of the the popular vote is very undemocratic. But proportional representation is not the answer...then you likely might end up with some party hack instead of the person you voted for in your local riding. You are also very likely to end up with minority governments more often than not. I like preferential balloting better. That way you can satisfy the greatest number of voters. I would also include a "None of the Above" option on the ballot. This would encourage those who don't support any of the candidates to come out to vote.

[wb256]

Exactly. A previous Liberal government (now under new leadership and in a new direction...not one that I entirely agree with, but the party HAS changed) made some judgement errors. Gun Registry cost a lot, but it was judgement errors that caused the problem, not the idea itself. The program is a good idea in my opinion, but was not introduced entirely correctly.

The situation was the same in the majority of your other examples (such as Mad Cow, etc).

As for relations with the USA, I think Uncle Sam harmed them, not the Liberals. What you're trying to say was the Liberal gov't didn't bend over backwards and go against the will of the majority of Canadians to impress our southern neighbors. Yes, that's true. However, I would have much rather harmed relations with the USA than follow their lead in the various ridiculous foreign policy decisions they've made.

No offence, but you should delve deeper when trying to convince me to join the CPC than using the anti-liberal propaganda that they purpotrate.

[The Blue Tory]

I completely agree. First-past-the-post where somebody can win with less than 50% of the the popular vote is very undemocratic. But proportional representation is not the answer...then you likely might end up with some party hack instead of the person you voted for in your local riding. You are also very likely to end up with minority governments more often than not. I like preferential balloting better. That way you can satisfy the greatest number of voters. I would also include a "None of the Above" option on the ballot. This would encourage those who don't support any of the candidates out to vote.

All good ideas...

I like the US election system... although not perfect, it demonstrates good democratic value.

For example, I like how the elections are done at a set date, that way they can not be put off or called early according to party popularity. I also like how they vote every 2 years for their representatives, that way their representative isn't allowed the time to corrupt or slack off. As well their 2 term limit for President, prevents the leader of the nation from going corrupt, like Chretien became.

[The Blue Tory]

Exactly. A previous Liberal government (now under new leadership and in a new direction...not one that I entirely agree with, but the party HAS changed) made some judgement errors. Gun Registry cost a lot, but it was judgement errors that caused the problem, not the idea itself. The program is a good idea in my opinion, but was not introduced entirely correctly.

The situation was the same in the majority of your other examples (such as Mad Cow, etc).

As for relations with the USA, I think Uncle Sam harmed them, not the Liberals. What you're trying to say was the Liberal gov't didn't bend over backwards and go against the will of the majority of Canadians to impress our southern neighbors. Yes, that's true. However, I would have much rather harmed relations with the USA than follow their lead in the various ridiculous foreign policy decisions they've made.

No offence, but you should delve deeper when trying to convince me to join the CPC than using the anti-liberal propaganda that they purpotrate.

Similar to the Liberals, as you claim, the CPC have changed as well. The inbred fighting that has occured over the past between the blue tories and the red tories, has ceased. As well, Harper, through the leadership vote, has proven he is national, having won votes all over the nation.

[wb256]

Similar to the Liberals, as you claim, the CPC have changed as well. The inbred fighting that has occured over the past between the blue tories and the red tories, has ceased. As well, Harper, through the leadership vote, has proven he is national, having won votes all over the nation.

Once again, that's a petty issue that I was trying to discard. The problem I have with the alliance has nothing to do with them being a split party. That would be better. They're united under bad ideas now. Even if they work VERY efficiently, they will be working towards a bad goal (in my opinion).

[The Blue Tory]

Once again, that's a petty issue that I was trying to discard. The problem I have with the alliance has nothing to do with them being a split party. That would be better. They're united under bad ideas now. Even if they work VERY efficiently, they will be working towards a bad goal (in my opinion).

CPC wants to preserve the social standards and norms that have been established through our history...

This is pure example of class conflict...

[Logan]

i think the main problem with the election system is that not enough independants run or get elected. in a party everyone in that party has to vote in agreement with the rest of the party if they don't it causes trouble for them with in their party. (english isn't my strong suit so if i doesn't make sense i don't know how to clearify it much, if some one could that would be appriciated)

also i think that the senate should have an equal amount of representatives from each province and that they should be elected by the provinces that they represent.

but to change the way that the senate or parliment works would require a change in the constituition of canada which is not a very easy thing to do.

[The Blue Tory]

i think the main problem with the election system is that not enough independants run or get elected. in a party everyone in that party has to vote in agreement with the rest of the party if they don't it causes trouble for them with in their party. (english isn't my strong suit so if i doesn't make sense i don't know how to clearify it much, if some one could that would be appriciated)

also i think that the senate should have an equal amount of representatives from each province and that they should be elected by the provinces that they represent.

but to change the way that the senate or parliment works would require a change in the constituition of canada which is not a very easy thing to do.

They don't necessarily need to change everything

What would be good to see, is set election days, and free voting for members of parliament on all bills. (Now isn't that on the CPC platform?)

If we had that then when you vote, it would be for the best person, not necessarily for the party...

[Logan]

What would be good to see, is set election days, and free voting for members of parliament on all bills. (Now isn't that on the CPC platform?)
and the senate reform is on the liberals

[The Blue Tory]

and the senate reform is on the liberals

I think Senate reform is needed...

If the CPC happened to take control of gov't in the next election... there is a possibility that the senate may cause problems. This considering that the Liberals have been in power for 11 years, thus during those 11 years have had time to appoint to the Senate a number of their supporters...

[grass_roots]

I completely agree. First-past-the-post where somebody can win with less than 50% of the the popular vote is very undemocratic. But proportional representation is not the answer...then you likely might end up with some party hack instead of the person you voted for in your local riding. You are also very likely to end up with minority governments more often than not. I like preferential balloting better. That way you can satisfy the greatest number of voters. I would also include a "None of the Above" option on the ballot. This would encourage those who don't support any of the candidates to come out to vote.

Proportional representation isn't neccessarily a system onto its self(although it could be) but more so a concept which could be intigrated into most electoral systems. I'm very flexible with my views on the subject, my only concern is that without some form of proportional representation that sizable minorities will not be represented. As I have mentioned before I support the green party of Canada as do 5% of other eligable voting Canadians yet we recieve no representation in parliment, I think that's a considerable democratic shortcomming when such a large number of concerned citizens have no voice.

[BMaloney]

Although I'm not a fan of Martin, I can guarantee the Liberals will still be in office. They have this little trick with staying in power.

Also, someone listed a big huge list "What a vote for the Liberals is..". I'd like to see a similar list made up for the other parties. We wouldn't want to have a bias now would we? :D

[Wood]

Just glancing through this thread, I'll make some comments.

1) 2 terms for Prime Minister is a bad idea. I understand that you didn't like Chretien, and I have no problems with you going on the News and telling the world that they should switch up PMs ever so often. However, I think its contrary to democracy to forbid the people to vote for whoever they want.

2) I personally will not be voting conservative. I will not even consider it. Right now their does not appear to be a legitmate right wing party for minorities. The alliance party always seemed to be supported by radical factions that appear to be down right racist. Their veiws scare me. I would have looked at the right before, however they are no longer an option.

3) If other minorities feel this way the conservatives will be hard fought to win ontario, which is increasingly becoming more multicultural. Don't know the numbers but its moving towards the total number of all the minority groups outnumbering the majority, and it might be there already.

[Neo]

I know what I said before, but I need to get this partisan outrage out of my system.


Also, someone listed a big huge list "What a vote for the Liberals is..". I'd like to see a similar list made up for the other parties. We wouldn't want to have a bias now would we? :D

A vote for the Conservatives, is a vote for allowing the US Gov't to dicate policy to Canada. A vote for the Conservatives is a vote for destroying the environment. A vote for the Conservatives is a vote for a weak Canada run by the provinces instead of by the Federal Gov't. A vote for the Conservatives is a vote for corruption, except it wouldn't be as bad, because the kickbacks would be to rich english speaking albertans instead of rich Quebecois.

A vote for the NDP is a vote a return to deficit spending. A vote for the NDP is a vote for halting the economic process of Canada. A vote for the NDP is a vote for bloated Social Policies. A vote for the NDP is a vote for rich union executives, and not for the members of the unions.

A vote for the Bloc Quebecois is a vote for... do I need to tell you what it a vote for the Bloc is? or do you already know?

====

In truth this is what a vote for the Liberals is:

A vote for the Liberals is a vote for balanced budgets. A vote for the Liberals is a vote for a Canada where Social Policy and Economic Policy are not enemies. A vote for the Liberals is a vote for the party that kept Canada out of the boondoggle known as the Iraq War. A vote for the Liberals is a vote for the party which has governed Canada through some of it's most important eras: The Second World War, Most of the Cold War (45-57, 63-79, 80-84), and from the years 1993-Present.

As well, the CPC has no "offical" policy. Its a passoff of the old Reform/Alliance package with a few Conservative additions to offset the image that it is a Reform III.

[Whiff]

It is time for a change, but you can't change if there are no options.

The CPC does not have a chance on the East Coast. Stephen Harper has already stated his opinion that Atlantic Canada is insificant to the rest of Canada and only started to change his tune when he was running for leadership. Now that Harper is the leader of the CPC, it's just the Alliance with a new name. The Party is in shambles, they don't support each other. They need to be a team before anyone can look at them seriously.

The NDP...who? Who are they and what do they stand for? You never see or hear anything from them, and until then they will not even have a chance at official opostition.

The Bloc...just no. They may strive in Quebec, but if they were to form the govenrment, that's all there will be.

So that leaves the scandalous Liberals. Although they are torn, and in the middle of a hugh scandal, they are the best option right now. I want the the Liberals out becasue they have been in power too long now, but when you look at the alternatives, there isn't much to chose from. The Martin governmenr did put out its budget, and there was really nothing in it worth speaking about, but it was a conservative budget and will keep up at our status quo for now.

Besides that, the Martin Administration is the best option for Newfoundland and Labrador. Paul Martin and our Premier, Danny Williams, have built up quit a good relationship with our province and the feds. Martin is actully looking at the Atlantic Accord and wants to help out province prosper, unlike the oposition who thinks we are insignificant.

So I think the Liberals will form the next government, however, I do think it will be a minority one. But who knows, maybe all the independents in the House of Commons will join together to make their own party. :)

[Logan]

So I think the Liberals will form the next government, however, I do think it will be a minority one. But who knows, maybe all the independents in the House of Commons will join together to make their own party. :)
if they did that they wouldn't be independants :D

[grass_roots]

The NDP...who? Who are they and what do they stand for? You never see or hear anything from them, and until then they will not even have a chance at official opostition.


The New Democratic Party, they are hard line socalist democrats, and the reason you don't see or hear anything from them is because of gross media biases(ie hardline socalist policies don't sit to well with the majority of the major network sponsors). As far as public relations and grass roots support networks go they arguably have the highest level of solidarity along with the Green Party. I base this not on party memberships, the popular vote or anything else you'll read about on the CBC or in the national post, but the level of democratic commitment and involvement which people with such politicial views seem to have. Example: the overwhelming majority of concerned citizen groups, indy-publications/zines, NGOs, demonstrations & marches, etc, etc, are organized and run by strong left leaning interest groups.

*note: I know you know who the NDP party is and probably what they stand for, I just wanted to clarify that for the benifit of everyone ;)

[grass_roots]

In truth this is what a vote for the Liberals is:

A vote for the Liberals is a vote for balanced budgets. A vote for the Liberals is a vote for a Canada where Social Policy and Economic Policy are not enemies. A vote for the Liberals is a vote for the party that kept Canada out of the boondoggle known as the Iraq War. A vote for the Liberals is a vote for the party which has governed Canada through some of it's most important eras: The Second World War, Most of the Cold War (45-57, 63-79, 80-84), and from the years 1993-Present.

I think I can one up that

I vote for the liberals is a vote for:

A party more concerned with clean PR coverage than any real transparency of policy

A party more concerned with retainment of control than democratic integrity

An urban nation where social needs and reform in our urban centres take a back seet to fiscal dicipline

An echelon of firmly rooted and currupt backbenchers

A party who's leader has strong relations with the petro-chemical world in the age of an environmental crisis and a crooked history of morally currupt decisions when his bussiness affairs were affected by government policy under his controll

A centralist fence sitter with no clear vision for our future in an age which requires reform on all levels of society

note: I fully understand these views are fully subjective in thier presnetation but are based on relative truths ;)

[Insane Power Pilot]

[The Conservative Party is racist and unfriendly toward minorities.]

I assure you this is completely unfounded and untrue. My MP, a Conservative, is a visible minority (Rahim Jaffer). The CPC does not advocate special treatment for minorities. In fact, no special treatment for anybody. And if that's what makes them racist, then I don't know what.

[Thib]

I'll probably be voting liberal for the next election, not necessary because I like them but they are the best of my choice:

I could vote for the BQ but I am not a big fan of their number one goal for some reason :rolleyes:. I could also vote for the CPC but Harper has the reputation of beeing anti-francophone (it might be true or it might not be, we already had a debate on this before, but the reputation is still there). Also I feel that the CPC merger was a solution they found to take power, and I don't like a groupe that is ready to sacrifice what they bealive because they want power. I might have voted for the C.P. before they merge with the Canadian Alliance. So the only choice I still have is the P.L.C. wich is the best option I have even with the scandal.

[Insane Power Pilot]

Also I feel that the CPC merger was a solution they found to take power, and I don't like a groupe that is ready to sacrifice what they bealive because they want power.

Hmm...well...that's kind of the whole point of a political party, no? ;)

[AMothfromWpg]

I'm voting NDP and heres why: they are the only party right now with a clear focus, questionning the gov't in power,

the CPC (or whatever name today is) is a party who just got enough votes for Harper. THey don't have a clear focus and don't know where they want to be on issues

the liberals...well besides all the nice senate appointments and large amounts of monies being flushed and disappearing...wait that's all that they have accomplished... nevermind...
Its great that the gov't is running a huge surplus...really it is...but at what cost? healthcare, military, ei/tansfer payments, infastructure, affordable housing, poverty etc. and the fact that everyone pays into the EI fund while only 40% of the workforce can actually receive benefits from it? superb... so not only does the gov't have the gst and gas tax going into general revenue...it also has the ei slushfund to help pay its programs... must be nice to hit that extra amount of monies...
I'm really wondering about all the corporations that seem to benefit when the liberals are in power... and under the liberals, they will sign the FTAA, sign on to the Star Wars/Missile Defence, ignore the military and will not define itself as a world leader that the UN has asked us to be... so in short, everything will the exact same as it is now...

[Thib]

Hmm...well...that's kind of the whole point of a political party, no? ;)


Yes to a point. For exemple, if I start a new party, I am not going to become pro-seperation only to get votes, if I do, it show that I have no value and that I am ready to do whatever it take to get powers. And that's the kind of people I don't like. I agree that political party changes but if they split before they must have had a reason.

[wb256]

I predict that me and my Birthday party will win a surprising landslide victory.

For those not familiar with out platform/policies, please ask me to repost an earlier thread.

[Wood]

I assure you this is completely unfounded and untrue. My MP, a Conservative, is a visible minority (Rahim Jaffer). The CPC does not advocate special treatment for minorities. In fact, no special treatment for anybody. And if that's what makes them racist, then I don't know what.

That wasn't a direct quote from me, nor was it an adequate summation of my position. The conservative party has elements from the alliance party with extremist views, at least as far as I can see. Not the type of people I want anywhere near criminal law. This is not to say that the entire party is bad, as I said I would have considered the PCs.

[sailrox]

I'm hoping for a Liberal minority government. Gives enough time for one of the other parties to actually get some legitamite experience, so voters have a better choice next time.

Why do I want this?

1) I used to be a fan of Stephen Harper. I htink Stockwell took a good party back 20 years. Then I met Stephen Harper. I will never say a good word about him ever again. He is a pompous @$$, no question. And this isn't just a handshake. This is full-on meeting him.

2) The Liberals aren't great, no. I'm not a huge fan of Paul Martin either. But they're sure as heck ebtter than the alternative.

3) I don't want the Conservatives/Alliance, either. I think they've been in opposition so long that they've forgotten what it means to take a stand on things. Harper and his party simply outright contradict everything the Liberals are doing, without much real thought into it. I'd hate to see them running my country, because I think they'd take all the good things LIberlas did (and yes, there are some!) and turn them back. And if that isn't a waste of money, I don't know what is.

4) I like the NDP. But I liek being able to pay for things too. Liek the Coservatives, I htink they need more experience.

5) You can't elect the Bloc, they have no seats outside Quebec. Quebec has a lot of seats, but not a majority.


I think the Alliance was great for ONE thing: The West want in. Beyond that, I can't agree with them on major platform points.

How can you ever hope to form a gov't, if all you ever do is contradict someone else's policies, instead of forming your own?

[Tomtom]

Just a reminder,

If you are a Canadian CIC Officer, you must publically support the government in power. You're personal opinions, if in conflict with the in power government is in direct violation of the Canadain Forces Interent Acceptable Use Policy.

You are representing the Canadian Forces if ANYWHERE on this website, you placed any reference to your involvment with the CIC, including signature blocks.

If you are a member, or officer of another nations military, you could also be held accountable for your comments on a public forum like CW.

If you are a Canadian cadet, and you have reference to your involvement with cadets anywhere on this forum, including your signature block, you could also be held accountable for your comments on a public forum, and may be in conflict with CATO 11-07 Internet Acceptable Use Polices for the Canadian Cadet Organization.

For the rest of our international community, you must follow your local laws and use your judgement accordingly.

Continue posting, just watch what you say.

[M. Ward]

Just a reminder,

If you are a Canadian CIC Officer, you must publically support the government in power. You're personal opinions, if in conflict with the in power government is in direct violation of the Canadain Forces Interent Acceptable Use Policy.

You are representing the Canadian Forces if ANYWHERE on this website, you placed any reference to your involvment with the CIC, including signature blocks.

If you are a member, or officer of another nations military, you could also be held accountable for your comments on a public forum like CW.

If you are a Canadian cadet, and you have reference to your involvement with cadets anywhere on this forum, including your signature block, you could also be held accountable for your comments on a public forum, and may be in conflict with CATO 11-07 Internet Acceptable Use Polices for the Canadian Cadet Organization.

For the rest of our international community, you must follow your local laws and use your judgement accordingly.

Continue posting, just watch what you say.


In that case, im good with whatevers going :) I try not to get caught up in politics as it is.

[Neo]

Hmm... it seems the debate has become quite stifled now... pitty.

*Starts to look around for Big Brother...*

[Insane Power Pilot]

Hehehe...not me! I no longer represent the CCM. Go freedom of speech! Down with government censorship!! :D They can do NOTHING to me!

[sailrox]

We're FREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

[The Blue Tory]

Just a reminder,

If you are a Canadian CIC Officer, you must publically support the government in power. You're personal opinions, if in conflict with the in power government is in direct violation of the Canadain Forces Interent Acceptable Use Policy.

You are representing the Canadian Forces if ANYWHERE on this website, you placed any reference to your involvment with the CIC, including signature blocks.

If you are a member, or officer of another nations military, you could also be held accountable for your comments on a public forum like CW.

If you are a Canadian cadet, and you have reference to your involvement with cadets anywhere on this forum, including your signature block, you could also be held accountable for your comments on a public forum, and may be in conflict with CATO 11-07 Internet Acceptable Use Polices for the Canadian Cadet Organization.

For the rest of our international community, you must follow your local laws and use your judgement accordingly.

Continue posting, just watch what you say.


So you are saying that by joining the CF you give up your right to free choice, speech, and choice of who you vote for in election?

[Bright Eyes]

You don't give up your right of choice. That's why elections are secret ballot. No one is forced to reveal their political preference.

As a member of the CF you do give up your "right" to run off at the mouth (which is likely a good thing, since you're probably making an *** of yourself anyway) with negative opinions of the government in power, whatever party it may be.

Edit: I'm so glad you brought up the Birthday Party, Warren. You are king of my world. :D

[sailrox]

Actually, for anyone who has a huge issue with this, read closely what Tom's saying.

If you really want to go off against the government, then take off your signature, etc. affiliated with cadets.

As a person, you can say anything you want.
But when acting in another capacity, in this case as a cadet, you do not.

It's like.... a teacher may be a fundamentalist Christian who believes the world is 10, 000 years old and gays are evil (just an example!), on his own time, but in his capacity as a teacher, and while identifying himself on say, a teacher's forum, he can't say things like that.

[Neo]

I have very strong opinions on this, but I won't even start to go into it...

[wb256]

Edit: I'm so glad you brought up the Birthday Party, Warren. You are king of my world. :D


I think creating the Birthday Party was the single greatest thing I have done in my lifetime (even better than the time I gave my face 3rd degree burns while playing with home made explosives and lied to my parents and told my parents the bbq flared up and burnt me). Just a reminder, you're ALL invited (to join and/or vote for me that is).

[M. Ward]

I know this is somewhat off topic, but I was reading CATO 11-07 and this I found rather interesting:


14. Grieveances and personal dissatisfactions with the Cadet Program or individuals involved with the Cadet Program shall not be posted over the Internet. Established procedures exist for the resolution of grievances at all levels.

That would mean all the Army Cadet program bashing by, well, Army Cadets, isn't allowed by this CATO, wouldn't it?

[Dick]

What exactly would you do if a "None of the Above" option won the riding? lol... that would be funny to see, but I'm it would be quite popular in some areas.

[sailrox]

I think that bit may have been put into the CATO's (and more likely, regular rules) after that website scandal earlier this year.

If you don't know...

There's a reg force website of some sort, where soldiers could go and discuss stuff like this, etc. They talked about the war on Iraq, disagreed with it, saying Byush was an idiot, and that this war was wrong, etc.

People got a hold of the story, and it was in the papers, etc. They were mad that the website was partially funded by DND, and they could talk like that.

Just a thought.

[Insane Power Pilot]

What exactly would you do if a "None of the Above" option won the riding? lol... that would be funny to see, but I'm it would be quite popular in some areas.

A by-election would be held...parties would have to nominate new candidates and the election proceeds as if the first one never happened.

[Engie]

I won't get to vote in the Federal Election because I believe that I will miss the age eligibility by like, five months.

[sailrox]

My first federal vote is an overseas vote!

I think we mail in our votes to the local embassy.

[Insane Power Pilot]

New Poll out by reputable Ipsos-Reid:

Liberals fall to their lowest since 1993!

Liberals 35% (down 3%)
Conservatives 28% (up 1%)
NDP 18% (up 3%)
Bloc 10%
Greens 5% (unchanged)

Indications by Ipsos-Reid is that this would be most definitely be a minority government.

Here is the regional breakdown with noted erosion of support in Ontario and Atlantic Canada:


BC
LIB 30 (up 2)
CPC 27 (down 11)
NDP 25 (up 7)
Greens 13 (up 1)


Alberta
LIB 31 (up 7)
CPC 46 (down 8)
NDP 12 (up 1)
Greens 5 (up 2)


Sask/Man
LIB 29 (up 4)
CPC 36 (up 8)
NDP 27 (up 3)
Greens 4 (up 1)


Ontario
LIB 41 (down 6)
CPC 32 (up 4)
NDP 19 (up 2)
Greens 5 ( up 2)


Quebec
LIB 30 (down 3)
CPC 11 (up 3)
NDP 10 (up 4)
BLOC 45 (down 1)
Greens 2 (down 5)


Atlantic
LIB 41 (down 6)
CPC 29 (up 2)
NDP 22 (up 8)
Greens 7 (up 5)

[grass_roots]

go greens!!! 5% might not sound like much but then you doze off, and when you wake up, WHAM, majority government

oh yes, you laugh now, just you wait

[The Blue Tory]

go greens!!! 5% might not sound like much but then you doze off, and when you wake up, WHAM, majority government

oh yes, you laugh now, just you wait

I think Green party will form the government before the NDP ever do

[Wood]

The NDP would do a lot better if people who agreed with them would vote for them. But that's not the way democracy works, people who care enough about the NDP will generally vote Liberals, just to keep the Conservatives out.

[grass_roots]

I think Green party will form the government before the NDP ever do

even as a green supporter I can't be that optimistic

The Green party is firmly rooted amongst special interest groups like students, artists, the environmental sector etc, etc. It definatly does not enjoy the support of strong labour unions, fishermen, farmers and the low wadge working class that the NDP has. Furthermore the fundamentals of the Green party would mean that if they ever came into power we would see drastic social change, like we're talking huge revamp of EVERYTHING, not just government but how we in the developed world live, which is hard to swallow unless your passionate about what the party preaches as most green supporters are. It's unfortuneate but I think it will take an environmental crises(not that one isn't happening RIGHT NOW) for the Green party to ever take power. But I keep optimistic, I see positive signs the globe over, the federal Government in Germany is a green party and even in the US there are various towns, cities and even a state with green governments. Plus there is a slew of new NGOs like Bioneers, informed publications like Orion and environmental educational programs/institutions which are popping up EVERYWHERE and are ushering in a new age where the environment, not economics, is what makes the world tick.

Sorry for the shameless advertising but if anyone is interested I have some sites you can check out if you want more green minded info/views:

http://www.greenparty.ca/
http://www.davidsuzuki.org/
http://www.bioneers.org/
http://www.oriononline.org/
http://www.greenpeace.org/
http://www.sierraclub.ca/

peace ;)

[Lil Lightnin]

I try not to get caught up in politics as it is.

You should. I don't know why any person wouldn't want to be involved in the issues of relevance to their own country.

Anyways, if someone wants to boot me because I'm speaking out against the government, go for it. I plan on voting CPC at the next election. As long as I can remember being interested in politics I've never liked the Liberal Party. I'll attribute this to our past PM, but even with Martin (who I do like much more) I still believe that this is a time for change. The Liberal party has made too many poor decisions for my liking, and I'd like to see how the new conservatives fare in the next election.

[Insane Power Pilot]

Some news that might be of interest to this topic:

Liberals spending spree (http://www.canada.com/national/nationalpost/news/story.html?id=5deded8d-f8ab-4f22-97f0-e154d04b816b)

Svend Robinson steps down (http://www.cbc.ca/stories/2004/04/15/canada/robinson_040415)

[Bright Eyes]

Aww. My mom went out for drinks with Svend when she was to a national NDP conference a few years back. She said he was a very nice man, but a bit of a square. :p

[piper]

If I was of voting age (1 more year) I would vote for the CPC. I am tired of the Liberals, the NDP is a joke (in my opinion) and the Bloc isn't looking to run the country. The CPC has its problems (the racism that is sometimes present in their party should be a source of shame for them) but I believe that it is the party that will finally give us a government with something resembling a backbone.

[Neo]

As much as the Liberals have made mistakes, I still think they've done a fairly good job at governing the country. People try to pin SARS, Mad Cow, etc on them, but thats unfare to do so... they don't control random events.

If the CPC has so much racism in it, I don't think they should be governing Canada...

But the Liberals have backbone; not many Canadian Prime Ministers have been as independent from American Policy, we didn't go to Iraq, and we are fighting for our Economic Interests when the Americans violate NAFTA.

But of course, we can never forget the "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling" Show with Mulroney and Reagan... talk about an Independent Government....