If the last time B.C. voters went to the polls is any indication, you’re just as likely not to cast a ballot in Tuesday’s provincial election as you are to mark your X.
In 2009 just 50 per cent of eligible voters turned out at the polls to make their voice heard.
In fact, voter turnout has been declining steadily since 1983, when 70 per cent of eligible voters exercised their franchise.
It’s not like voting is hard work.
Short of knocking on your front door and sticking a ballot under your nose, Elections BC has made it increasingly easier and more convenient to vote.
Advance polls opened Wednesday, and they’ll remain open through Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Voters could also cast their ballot at their nearest electoral office from the call of the election right up until election day. There’s an electoral office in every riding and they’re open until 4 p.m.
It’s even possible to vote by mail.
Residents who won’t be in their electoral district on voting day can vote in any other riding in the province.
In Comox, voters can stay in their cars, as a drive-thru polling station will be set up at a former car dealership.
And while Elections BC has studied the viability of online voting, there’s no guarantee that would increase voter participation.
In Markham, Ont. where residents have been allowed to vote online in the past three municipal elections, participation didn’t increase, but it also didn’t decline.
So really, there’s no excuse not to vote.
Not even the distraction of a Canucks’ playoff run.
– Black Press
