Canada’s first-past-the-post electoral system can lead to troubling outcomes. Imagine if, in every riding across the country, the Liberals received 40% of the vote, the Conservatives 35%, and the NDP 24%. Under this system, the Liberals would win all 338 seats—while the Conservatives and the NDP would win none.
That would give the Liberals a vast majority with just 40% of the vote. Meanwhile, the 59% who voted for other parties would have no representation in Parliament. Fortunately, real-world races are more competitive, but the system still creates inequities that leave many voters feeling their vote doesn’t matter.
That’s why, when we vote in Pontiac this time, it’s essential to choose the best candidate for our riding—not just someone who will be another backbencher filling a seat in Parliament.
Carl Hagar
Vice-president, Pontiac NDP
riding association
Gatineau, QC
Published in the Pontiac Journal on April 23, 2025.
