LETTER

LETTRE

 Voter Apathy: no inspiring candidates? (Part 2)

 

Media forecasting is essentially directing the narrative of the election's outcome. The media would serve us better by offering balanced coverage of all our issues and equal airtime for all candidates—even  "fringe candidates."
    When I look at how candidates act, especially their crudeness on social media, candidates seem to have a sense of entitlement, which is a huge turn-off. It's as if they don't feel they need to earn the voters' trust that they'll represent their constituents' interests. It’s fascinating what some candidates think will get them elected.
    Candidates, including incumbents, should remember that nobody is owed to be elected. Candidates must demonstrate to voters that they're the best candidate to represent their interests. Instead candidates read from the same script, "Vote for me, and I'll end all your problems." Candidates don't need to tell voters all that's wrong with Quebec. Instead, candidates should explain why they can remedy what's wrong. "It's all bad," isn't helpful.
    Then there's horse-race journalism, repeating the rhetoric that incumbents "can't be beaten." These predictions are based on "The devil you know is better than the devil you don't," which gives incumbents their advantage. Long before the vote, there's a sense that elections are over.
    It’s naïve to think that any new candidates, premier, or party will transform Quebec into utopia. Quebec has all the problems associated with a rapidly growing cosmopolitan population. Citizens create the livability of their  community, not politicians.
    Get to know your candidates.  Read their platforms. Ask questions or for clarifications and details. Judge if their election promises are realistic. Determine whether they have the experience to bring their platform to fruition. Inform yourself, then make a choice. On October 3rd, vote!
Nick Kossovan,
Toronto, Ont