This edition went to press on election day. Following a whirlwind 39-day campaign, many may be experiencing a sense of election fatigue or withdrawal as the dust settles and the media changes tack. Before moving on, there are several takeaways to highlight from the trenches on the campaign trail in the Huntingdon riding.
The candidates all conducted a respectful campaign, often finding consensus on key issues while diligently explaining their policy differences. A primary message from all contenders was the fundamental difference between rural and urban issues. It was often emphasized that wall-to-wall solutions proposed in Quebec are often ineffective and blind to the realities of regional needs.
At the outset, the Huntingdon riding was not expected to be a close race, but as the campaign rolled on the polls tightened. And in a race where every seat mattered, the national media took note. Local issues, including linguistic rights, were suddenly spotlighted in detailed articles in Montreal dailies that elevated the region’s profile beyond just the campaign. The widespread bilingualism across the riding was identified as a pivotal factor, particularly following challenging years for the English-speaking community under the outgoing government.
The extra eyes on the riding may have raised local interest as well. Over 50 people gathered at the LBA dining hall in Ormstown to watch the candidates in the Huntingdon riding face off during a livestreamed debate organized by a consortium of regional media, including The Gleaner. People were engaged and interested in the politics driving the campaign. They were also watching to be sure issues close to home, including access to quality healthcare and education services, affordable and safe housing, sustainable agriculture, the environment, labour shortages and much more were all on the radar for local candidates. Hopefully this attention translated to a higher voter turnout than the 64.27 per cent that cast a ballot in the 2022 general election.
No matter the result, a new leader has been elected and with that comes great opportunity for positive change. Let’s hope that all of the optimism, enthusiasm, and consensus demonstrated by campaigning candidates carries over into this new government and the upcoming session at the National Assembly. Elections are designed to play off our differences, but this process does not have to sow more negativity and division. We get enough of that already.
Sarah Rennie