Still the positive choice

For all the talk of strategy and polls (and there's certainly been plenty from this corner since the campaign began), the ultimate question still has to be that of which party best reflects one's values. So let's take a look at how the NDP has addressed some of the concerns of Canadian voters.

Worried that the need for better care for seniors has been neglected so far in the campaign? Look no further than the NDP's platform, which features an expanded caregivers program as well as investments in home care and long-term care.

Concerned that womens' issues have received short shrift? In addition to having more female candidates than any other party, the NDP has a sound set of policies to help move toward gender equality.

Wondering if anybody is standing up for Canadian culture? The NDP has that covered as well, with better support for artists as well as measures to make sure that Canada keeps ownership of its own culture industries.

I'd continue, but I'm sure you get the idea.

Of course, the tone of campaign coverage has characteristically been based largely on the personal actions and foibles of the politicians involved. And the NDP has done nothing but improve its standing with the public in that arena as well.

But for Canadians wondering whether the federal parties care about the same priorities as they do, the odds are that they'll find a positive answer in the NDP. And if any significant fraction of the voters who want to see these issues addressed vote accordingly, the NDP will be able to ensure that those voices are heard and those views are reflected in the next Parliament.