So, as pretty much every person knows, the States is having a presidential election in November. So, as a Canadian teen, why-oh-why am I talking about this? Well, I’m not. At least, not really. I just find it funny how different the political systems work in our two countries. I really couldn’t tell you which one (if either) is better. Anyways, as all Canadians *should* know (especially those of voting age), Stephen Harper called an election. Our third in 4 years.
What I find funny about this is how much hype the Americans put into elections. I think that they start campaigning the moment the president is elected. Also, they know that every 4 years, exactly, they will have an election. On the other hand, in Canada, the Prime Minister calls an election, basically, whenever they want to, within 4 years of them becoming the PM. Thats why we’ve had 2 in the past 4 years (and one will have this year).
The other thing, was that Americans know that once every 4 years, in November, they have an election. Ours was called on September 7th, and will be held on October 14th. Yeah, it’s a bit faster than 4 years. Or however long this election has been planned for.
My last odd thing about elections is that in the States, the president may have 2 terms, max. In Canada, they could have as many as they can last for. Whether thats 1 or 6, or somewhere in between. Also, being all ahead of the curve, we’ve had a female PM. Yup. It may have been for a short time, but it still counts. =D
So thats all I have to say about politics. Oh, that and Vote. Please do. If you are of age, then choose a candidate/party/however you want to choose. If you don’t vote, no one can for you. It’s one chance. And it only takes a few minutes out of your day, once every 4 or 3 or 2 or however many years. It’s not a big deal, unless you don’t do it.
So, thats the end of my rant/talk-type thing. I know this is out of my normal realm, but voting is really important, and I hope that whomever the next Prime Minister and President are, you have a part in getting them there. Harper, Dion, Obama and McCain, Good luck.
So, I’ll get back to my normal, teenage-type posts tomorrow, I just wanted to say this, because after all, 2 of the above names are going to be running our countries for the next 4 (or less…) years. It’s pretty important. Thats all.
xoxo
Lauren
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
That is so interesting Lauren!! It’s interesting how your government is set up differently than ours. I’m glad to see that you are interested in the future of your country and historical perspectives. I can honestly say that as a teenager, I could have cared less about our American elections. They are very important to me now though! 😉
I never knew that your PM calls fot the election. I’m on my way to look up more info regarding this. Very interesting! Thanks for sharing and comparing.