Ontario snowbirds worry they won’t be able to vote in Ford’s snap election
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As Doug Ford hints at an early election, Patricia Williams, a retired senior and snowbird, found herself in a predicament. With a flight to catch for a trip to Spain, Portugal, and Italy in mid-February, she reached out to the PC Leader urging him not to call for an early election. Williams and her husband have been diligent voters throughout their lives, but the timing of this election posed a challenge for them.
Having voted in every election since turning 18, Williams expressed her concerns about casting a ballot with incomplete information. With limited policy releases from the parties, she emphasized her worries about the province’s economy and healthcare system, complex issues that require thorough consideration.
The snap election scheduled for Feb. 27 left Williams and many other snowbirds questioning how they would be able to exercise their right to vote. With over 53,000 seniors estimated to travel to warmer destinations during the winter months, the issue of absentee voting became a pressing concern.
Elections Ontario clarified that online voting is not an option in Ontario elections, meaning most snowbirds would have to vote by mail. The process required individuals to apply to mail in their vote by Feb. 21 and return the voting kit by Feb. 27 for it to be counted. However, challenges arose for individuals like Norma DiGiandomenico, who feared that the postal system’s speed might hinder her ability to vote from her winter home in Texas.
Despite the obstacles, snowbirds like DiGiandomenico emphasized the importance of voting and expressed disappointment in Ford’s decision to call for an early election. Ford justified his actions by citing the need for a fresh mandate to address potential economic challenges, but opposition parties criticized the move as unnecessary.
In response to the unique circumstances surrounding this election, Elections Ontario announced a shorter advance voting window of three days instead of the usual ten. Chief Electoral Officer Greg Essensa assured the public that contingency plans were in place to address any disruptions caused by winter weather.
As snowbirds and early voters navigate the challenges posed by the upcoming election, individuals like Williams continue to seek out information on party platforms while hoping for a smooth voting process. The concerns raised by seniors and absentee voters underscore the importance of ensuring that all eligible electors have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process.