It's Election Day and as most people see it, you have your choice between these four guys. In truth, that's not really the case. When you go to the poll, you are of course voting for someone to act as your representative in Parliament. As such, do make sure to know who you're really voting for. Certainly each of the parties' platforms should factor into your decision, but you should also be sure to vote for a candidate that is in fact competent, and will provide you and your neighbours with good representation in Ottawa.

If you're like me, one of the outcomes you may hope to see tonight is a Parliament that is not dominated by a Conservative majority. Should this be the key factor in your decision-making, you may want to consider reviewing the information at the website, Catch-22. At this website, the authors are providing some insight as to who among the Liberal, NDP or Green candidates has the best chance at defeating the Conservative candidate in each closely contested riding. Though there are varying opinions on the effectiveness of strategic voting (some suggesting it has little impact, some saying it could be a key factor in the election), until we overhaul our electoral system, I see no reason for you not to consider it among the factors that will help you make your decision. In most cases, voting for the Catch-22 candidate will also coincide with getting good representation from a competent proven person that will serve you well as your Member of Parliament.

Every vote does count! Even if you feel your riding has a strong front-runner that is sure to win, your vote does matter. Votes count towards how political parties are funded, and this year more than any other, the final vote count nationally may play a key role in demonstrating the will of the Canadian people and the mandate we are giving our politicians.

Get out to the polls and make your vote count!