Editor:
On Sunday, Aug. 2, Prime Minister Harper asked Gov.-Gen. David Johnston to dissolve Parliament, formally kicking off the federal election campaign, 11 weeks ahead of the scheduled Oct. 19 voting date. Canadians and candidates face a grueling 77-day election campaign, the longest in Canadian history.
Harper’s recent Fair Elections Act allows each party to spend about $5 million per week, or $25 million during a normal 37-day campaign. By calling the election six weeks early, parties can more than double their spending, which will make this the most expensive election in Canadian history.
Harper’s Conservative war chest is brimming with cash, given by the same corporate and wealthy contributors that Harper’s economic and tax policies so richly rewarded. No opposition party has anywhere close to the finances gifted to the Conservatives.
The Fair Elections Act limits the capacity of parties to borrow money to make up the difference between available contributions and the spending limits. As well it curtails third party spending to blunt criticism of Harper’s government.
The longer election will cost the public purse dearly, an additional $125 million by one estimate, as Elections Canada offices have to be staffed for the longer campaign with larger party and candidate rebates. Why?
Harper intends to outspend the opposition parties in an attempt to buy himself another term in office. On Oct. 19 when these 11 weeks are finally over, Canadians should remember who put us all through the wringer and why, and vote accordingly. Don’t reward arrogance!
Jef Keighley, Halfmoon Bay
