Election campaign, debates will give voters something to chew on this long weekend
As Canadians gather around the table this long weekend to enjoy a holiday meal with loved ones, they are not only indulging in delicious food but also digesting the recent leadership debates and the ongoing election campaign. It’s not uncommon for elections to coincide with holidays, as Canada’s fixed date election rules typically lead to voting taking place in October after the Thanksgiving weekend. However, this year’s snap election call has placed Easter and Passover celebrations in the final weeks of the campaign, adding an extra layer of discussion to family gatherings.
According to Greg MacEachern, trust and word of mouth play a significant role in shaping voters’ opinions. Family and friends’ views can have a strong influence on individuals, especially during holiday gatherings. MacEachern highlighted the impact of the 2008 campaign, where Thanksgiving discussions contributed to a negative perception of Liberal leader Stéphane Dion. Similarly, political science professor Lori Turnbull noted that undecided voters will have more to consider as they reflect on the recent leadership debates over the long weekend.
The recent French and English debates saw leaders exchanging jabs and trying to convey their main messages without landing a decisive blow. While some believe that the debates may only solidify existing voter choices, others like former Conservative minister James Moore think that family discussions during the holiday weekend could sway undecided voters. Moore emphasized the importance of connecting with family members to discuss the future prime minister, which could help crystallize their voting decision.
Despite the focus on politics during holiday gatherings, conversations may also drift into other topics like the start of the NHL playoffs or even discussions about U.S. President Donald Trump, who has become a key issue in this election. Turnbull acknowledged that election talk may be hard to avoid given the high stakes and the perception of a two-party race between the Liberals and Conservatives.
In addition to holiday discussions, Elections Canada will be running advance polls from Friday to Monday, potentially increasing voter turnout, especially among first-time voters. Turnbull highlighted the significance of young voters being home for Easter and voting with their families, as this practice could instill a long-term commitment to participating in elections.
Overall, the blend of holiday festivities and election fervor creates a unique backdrop for Canadians to engage in political discourse and make informed decisions as they head to the polls.
