With the federal election quickly approaching, I had to mentally prepare myself for the negative side of campaigning.
I think way too much time is spent on smear campaigns, and sharing information that’s not relevant to voters.
Robynne Henry The Henry Hype
Growing up, that was predominantly what I heard when it came to politics and I couldn’t understand why adults were focusing on that aspect so much. It’s a lesson we’re taught at a young age, and it doesn’t seem to stick. ‘If you have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.’
Even if some of the information is true, it’s not really helping anyone decide who to cast their vote for. That party may have done that in the past, but what are you going to do for the future? If you put an emphasis on dragging an opponent’s name through the mud, why should you get my vote? It’s not making me look down on them, which I’m assuming was the original intention, but it’s making me doubt if you should have any power at all.
Instead of wasting time attacking your opponent, focus on your platform. What are your priorities? How are you going to help Canadians? Where do you stand on current issues, like healthcare, student debt, taxes, and others? That’s important to me, and what I want to hear.
While I understand the need to point out the faults in an opponent to show they’re not fit for the job, it should be up to the voters to decide. A party’s history is available to the public, and there’s a plethora of information available at our finger tips with a simple search online.
Along with sharing my opinion on the negatives we sometimes see with campaigns, I’m also using this Henry Hype to implore readers to get informed before you cast your vote this year. Don’t rely on second-hand information to show your support, but find a group that aligns with your priorities.
Filling out the ballot is important, but educating yourself before that is also crucial. We’re deciding on the people who will be running our country for the next four years, and that’s a heavy task. Make sure all of your questions are answered, and you’re confident in your choice.
When I’m heading out to learn more about the candidates and what they have to offer, I want to know what their platform is. I don’t want to hear another party’s name, but what they’re going to do if they win.
I don’t listen to the attack ads or smear campaigns, so you have a clean slate as far as I’m concerned.
