Vote for the candidate of your choice.

So, the election is (finally!) almost upon us.

Many of you will know that I have spoken out against “attack ads” and the generally negative tone that has surrounded this campaign. With that in mind, I offer to you my rationale for choosing to support the Conservatives in this election.

I will admit, the Harper government has brought in policies I do not agree with. But, as with all things in life, we must sometimes accept compromises.

Canada is still one of (if not the) best countries in the world, with a strong economy and one of the best standards of living in the world.

We have managed to avoid the worst of the economic problems that affected other countries.  Yes, the policies of the Bank of Canada played a large part in this, but so, too, did fiscal decisions by the Harper government.

An Op-Ed piece in the Calgary Sun offered a list of counter-arguments to the claims of the “Stop Harper” crowd, people who want to vote Harper out of office and “take our country back.” It’s an interesting read…

Here’s a link to the article. 

It is likely that (if) the Harper government is returned it will be as a minority government, and that’s not a bad thing. 

Minority governments tend to be more responsive to the people, and seek to work with the opposition parties. This is where we can hope to see some of the less desirable initiatives of the Conservatives reined in somewhat.

I believe that Stephen Harper’s vision for Canada will benefit the country as a whole, and we will begin to see a further strengthening of our economic position on the world stage.

For that reason, I am supporting the Conservatives.

You may not agree, and that’s okay. We will never achieve unanimity in electing a government, or in any decision, for that matter.

I would ask — in the spirit of avoiding “attacks” and negativity — that those wishing to offer their opinion on the election explain in positive terms — without resorting to attacks or negative comments about other candidates or parties — why the candidate or party they prefer is a better choice.

When you vote, please remember our system really does not allow "votes against" anyone. Vote for the candidate of your choice, the candidate (or party) you feel will serve our community, and the country, best.

And remember, whatever the outcome on Monday, whoever wins, we must accept the results. That is the hallmark of a mature democracy.