To the Editor,
Re: Strategically or not, vote, Editorial, Oct. 6.
British Columbians have a unique opportunity to vote strategically not to defeat someone, but to elect someone. It is clear that in a divided three-way split House of Commons, the presence of a strong Green Party contingent will add to the pursuit of co-operation and effective legislation.
We have the good fortune of having a dozen Green candidates on the coast and Vancouver Island who are within striking distance of winning their ridings. Only the fear of a Stephen Harper majority has been holding them back. Now that we know that this is not going to happen, we can take the rare opportunity to elect these candidates.
One more Liberal or NDP MP (one more CPC, for that matter) will not change the minority split house dynamic. Several more Green MPs, however, will change the whole flavour and decorum of this fractured house.
Brian FisherNanaimo
To the Editor,
The spin and pandering of politics have reached new depths. Confused citizens, those who haven’t completely given up on a dysfunctional electoral system, are being whipsawed more than ever by the Conservatives.
Power at any price seems to be Stephen Harper’s mantra, thus we are seduced into focusing on wedge issues which pander to our dark side. We are so easily frightened and so easily bought. This debasement of the fabric of our society is ruining our country. It has been years since this country has been respected internationally. Where once we were admired, now we are seen as a northern chapter of American Republicans toadying to massive corporations and voted for by the credulous, the greedy and the fearful.
My integrity is not for sale. It was most reassuring to see 900 Green Party supporters at a rally locally. I will vote my conscience, not my fears.
David CuttsNanaimo