FIND YOUR VOTING VOICE

Mercer says politicians pander to those who are most likely to vote—which is why there are more campaign stops at retirement homes than at college campuses. “If only 10 percent more young people show up in this election,” says Mercer, “it will change politics in this country forever.”

BY JILL BUCHNER

ou might be dreading the imminent federal election, but for political satirist Rick Mercer, it’s a time to relish. “Politics has always been my sport, and an election is like Y Rather than give up, recognize that some messages are just noise. Political parties spend more money on attack ads every year, yet most of the criticism is based on a candidate’s appearance, notes Mercer. His advice? “When people a World Series,” he says. Mercer’s unique have nothing good to say about themability to break down the impact of political selves and all they can do is criticize issues made him our first choice for elec- everyone else, you want to look at them tion guidance. He offered his insights on and ask, ‘What are they all about?’” how to vote so that you are the winner. DEFINE YOUR OWN ISSUES THINK LOCAL We each vote for our member of Parli Jobs, the economy and the environment ament, but in the weeks before we head to are all hot-button topics, but Mercer warns the polls, we hear far more about potential against letting the leaders’ dialogue dictate prime ministers than we ever do about the what you think is names on our ballots. important in the “Politics is the only business Mercer says it’s imporupcoming election. “The party in power where the main stakeholders tant to get to know local representatives. would like to define the issues as the ones they think are derive benefit from turning people off of the process.” “You need an MP who will stand up for your concerns in your riding. their strengths,” he And they have to be says. “But it’s up to the individuals, too.” hardworking because MPs do a lot of work.” Your age, job, lifestyle and values help What you don’t want is a sheep. “If you determine your priorities. A smart vote sense the only thing that person cares for you might be different from how about is doing what the party wants him to your parents and your spouse do,” says Mercer, “I would run for the hills.” choose to vote. TUNE OUT THE PUT AWAY EXCUSES Not voting means not being heard. If NEGATIVITY Parliament confuses you, do a bit of research, says Mercer. “There are far Pessimistic about politics? more complicated things in this world.” It isn’t you. “Politics is the Think the candidates are all the same? only business where the main “You’re wrong,” says Mercer. “They have stakeholders derive benefit very different opinions and agendas.” He from turning people off of suggests voting is habit-building: If you the process,” says Mercer. start doing it, you’ll keep doing it. And “Politicians intentionally bring your kids along—watching you poison the entire market vote will turn them into voters. because, in many instances, After all, says Mercer, voting is the they’re just as glad if people most important thing any citizen can get turned off and stay home; do. “It’s an obligation. And I know this therefore, they only have to would be a far, far better country if concentrate on their base.” people took it seriously.”