Electoral question re:Newspaper endorsements (updated)

To whom it may concern,

I am concerned that several Canadian newspapers have decided to endorse political candidates in the 2011 election campaign.

While I am not perfectly clear on recent changes and new technicalities, it would seem that their endorsements constitute Third Party sponsorship. The editorials cost the private companies money, through manpower, printing costs and other expenses.

While I understand that 3rd parties can advertise during an election, I was under the impression that they are required to register with Elections Canada.

In particular, I am writing to ask if the Globe and Mail registered as a 3rd party, or if any members of its editorial board registered as a 3rd party. If not, could you please explain why their endorsement is not a violation of current Election financing rules?

Thank you very much for your time, and Thank you for the excellent work you perform on behalf of all Canadians.

Regards,

Elections Canada response (received with 24 hours of query!)

Title,

You are correct that third parties who incur more than $500 for election advertising are required to register. However, the statutory definition of "election advertising" (s. 319 of the Canada Elections Act) specifically excludes from that definition "the transmission to the public of an editorial, a debate, a speech, an interview, a column, a letter, a commentary or news". In accordance with this definition, an editorial or column endorsing a party or candidate is not considered to be election advertising.

I trust this is of assistance.


Not only was the EC response quick, but it was technically specific. To say I am impressed is an understatement.

The 5 point plan the Liberals won't use

The Liberal campaign for Canada's 41st election is floundering, if not outright choking. Their "platform" is poorly articulated, and it comes across exactly how people view Ignatieff.

The biggest failure is preaching democracy and strategic voting in the same sentence. Attack Harper, do not mention Layton!!!

The 5 point plan: is an spoken slogan - and its requirement is it's brevity and order. No need to alter web-platform.

1. Fiscal responsibility creates a better economy - and we have a proven record

2. Families - families need better jobs, great schools, and the best health-care. Only successful families build a better economy.

3. Defence and Crime: Canada's forces deserve the best equipment, and our veterans better treatment. We will also focus on Crime Prevention. Protection is better than punishment.

4. Restoring our International Independent reputation. We are our own country.

5. Cleaning up the environment. The oil sands are here to stay, but we can be cleaner. Green is the future.

When asked why the change in platform? I've listened to Canadians.

I actually don't agree with these policies, but I like a spicy campaign, and a jerk-sauced Parliament. Hence the Liberals should be using the 5 pointer above to hit on the Conservative vote.

- just offering my pennies.

Canadian politics would be boring without minorities! (oh wait...)

Real Senate Reform

A brief proposal for senate reform (light draft)

Replace the senate every election, but with the popular vote percentages.

All parties would have to present their ranked list of Senators prior to the election, so the candidates may be scrutinized. No surprises.

This would be an honest reflection of Canadian voting intentions, while not infringing on local representation, as well as leaving parliamentary house power intact.

When it comes to voting there are two options

1 - leave it the way it is

2 - provide the ability to vote for a local candidate and a federal party (I could vote for a local Conservative, but also vote for Liberal 'Sober Second Thought')

Obviously, the rules and powers of Senators would need to be reviewed, but it would provide the chamber of sober second thought with an actual mandate from the people.

What the approximate Senate distribution would have been after the last election

CPC 40 seats
LPC 28 seats
NDP 19 seats
Bloc 10 seats
Greens 7 seats

To reply, find me on Twitter.

Regards,