For all the talk about today's election results potentially changing nothing in Parliament, it's worth noting that for the New Democrats at least there's a strong chance of plenty of historic outcomes.
Even on a relatively modest result based on the last week's polls, the NDP figures to win a Quebec seat in a general election for the first time, win seats in more provinces than ever before, and come closer to the Libs' share of the popular vote than it ever has.
Based on the latest numbers from Canada's most highly-regarded pollster, the NDP should top its previous highs in percentage of the popular vote.
And if the NDP holds its Nanos numbers in the popular vote and/or gets a reasonable strategic vote in its favour, it has a strong opportunity to top its best-ever federal seat total.
What's more, all this is possible in an election likely to produce another minority Parliament. Which means that incremental gains in vote and seat totals will meaningfully affect the balance of power in the House of Commons, and allow the New Democrats a stronger position both in the next Parliament and in elections to come.
All of which is to say that while the other parties may be doing little more than hoping to tread water, there's ample reason for New Democrats to be excited about the possibilities.
Note that comments are now moderated for election day. I'll close by joining in the chorus encouraging all readers to get out and vote - and hope that the NDP will be able to check off many or all of the historic markers from the above list by tonight.
No comments:
Post a Comment