A starter guide for the Canadian federal election voter 2015

The election campaigns are in full swing and the candidates are on the trail for the 42nd Canadian Federal Election. You will have seen the signs, watched the ads and heard some chatter around the water cooler about the party leaders.

October 19, 2015 will mark the end of the 77 days of campaigning for the Liberal, Conservative, NDP and Green Party candidates. Canadians will go to the polls and choose their representatives and a government will be formed.

I don’t know about you, but I know more about the American electoral process than I do about our own. Partly due to ignorance and partly due to the fact that they haven’t had a West Wing equivalent in Canada starring Rob Lowe. But that’s not a valid reason, for me or for you. There are A LOT of differences between the two systems, so it’s very important that you know how the Canadian one works and how you can be involved and informed during this long election campaign right up to voting day.

First: How does the Canadian electoral system work?
What do you mean I can’t vote for Elizabeth May? Well, you can, if you live in Saanich-Gulf Islands riding in BC. Who you vote for on election day depends what riding you live in. That is one difference between Canada and the US, and there are many more. You can watch this helpful video to understand how our election process works.


Second: Who can I vote for?
You will need to find out which riding you live in. You can do that here.

Once you have entered in your postal code there will be a link for “Who are the candidates in my electoral district?” A list will pop up with the candidates in your riding who have been nominated. Important note: The official nomination deadline for candidates is September 28 – more candidates may be listed for your riding later.

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Third: How do I get informed?
I would advise against solely reading the headlines that are making their rounds on Facebook to make your voting decision. It’s time to do some research.

  • Check out the party websites for their platforms and promises:
  • Watch the leader debates:
  • Go to local riding debates (this is specific to each riding, check your local news for more info)

Fourth: Who should I vote for?
If you’ve done your research and you are still stuck on who to vote for, then try one of these voting tools. They are pretty simple and ask you questions on certain issues and then align your answers with each of the the party’s stances.

 

Check back to 25th Avenue for more helpful tips on the Canadian election, voting and making sure you get to the ballot box!


Jes

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Jes spends approximately 25% of her income on brunch, really likes to laugh and is certain if Regina George punched her in the face she would not think it was awesome.



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