Federal Election: And We’re Off

Still digesting, as I’m sure everyone else is, but just a few quick observations. First off, I was actually proud of Jack Layton, clearly not an easy situation, many factors in play, but he stood by his principles and did the right thing. In the weeks leading up to this vote, the "dance", circumstances have changed, there has been a distinct evolution on the baggage front, this IS the opposition’s moment and Layton recognized that. 

Further to that point, I believe this is the first election in recent memory, wherein parties forced an election without immediate self interest apparent. In fact, you can say there is a bit of logic defying here, the polls aren’t kind on their face, it looks superficially bad, timing just odd by strategic standards. And yet, the Liberals held firm in the face of slipping polls and criticism, now the NDP have ignored warning signs and stood up against Harper. Finally, the opposition has performed perfectly, these people have stepped all over our democracy, our institutions, no matter the polling, simply can’t endorse this behaviour, as well as their "vision" for the country. There is some kind of honour to this forced showdown, or at least it feels rooted in the "right" reasons, rather than naked political expediency alone.

I’m looking forward to this election, because I believe this stale environment needs an election, Canadians need to have a focused discussion, this is when our political system is really at it’s best in terms of engagement and participation. 

And we’re off…

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