Having voted earlier this evening for the Green Party in the Canadian federal election, I left the poling station with a strange sensation.
Given all the talk (some of it my own voice) of how little a vote counts, and how ineffectual a partisan political system can be, it is easy to be cynical (and I am) about the value of voting. For example, tonight I voted for a candidate and party who have virtually no chance of winning in my riding.
That said, there is something remarkable about participating in a collective decision with tens of millions of others.
Voting makes me feel small, insignificant, and powerful.
Update: Again doing something in common with tens of millions of others, I’ve turned on the TV to watch some election coverage. I’m back to feeling cynical.
Comments
Chris - January 24, 2006 5:00 pm
I voted green too. The party gets funding of $1.50 for every vote, so in my view the vote isn't completely wasted. We need proportional representation in Canada and then the greens will have some seats.
Kevin O'Brien - January 27, 2006 9:35 pm
Recently I heard the figure $2.75 and some mention of it going up. Perhaps they meant up to that amount. Anyway Steve, think of it as a novel way to donate to a charity/activist group -- no doubt you do for other groups in several other ways.
Go Green!
Ellen - January 28, 2006 12:50 am
Good vote Steven. I'd like to see the Green Party get a few seats. They seem to be the only party not making outlandish election promises, they actually have achievable goals which will benefit ALL citizens, the world. Didn't know about the donation/vote. Like hearing what you have to say, keep it up.
Block Sheep - January 30, 2006 10:15 pm
I have voted Green (in CA, and now in TX (which is a bit trickier)) ever since I could vote. I find it a worth while use of my time.
jjhjjh - July 24, 2006 9:53 pm
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kokoko - August 1, 2006 3:27 pm
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