Voters asked Trudeau for electoral reform referendum, letters show

OTTAWA — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s inbox filled up pretty quickly this past spring after controversy first began to engulf the federal government’s efforts to retool Canada’s electoral system.

In May, the Liberals gave themselves a majority on the all-party committee tasked with exploring the issue, and denied voting privileges to the Bloc Quebecois and Green party members. Those decisions were quickly reversed. 

That didn’t stop Canadians from weighing in. Here are some of their thoughts, obtained by The Canadian Press under the Access to Information Act:

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“There is no need to fear coalition governments, or multiple parties — they reflect the diversity of populations and lead to folks working together. The evidence shows that proportional representation will make every vote count, create more inclusive government and strengthen our democracy.”

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“The Liberal party, which I have supported all my voting life, as did my parents, has promised us electoral reforms. As a student of history, I am aware that the ONLY true way to deliver true democratic system of voting is the principle of proportionality, which is what is used in the majority of advanced democratic countries.”

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“Do not let the naysayers deter you: it is within the government’s power to alter the electoral process in this simple, but fundamental way. If it needs to be supported by a referendum, that would be unfortunate, but so be it!”

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“Any change requires the proven support of the people or as a minimum the support of all three major political parties. Stop your bully tactics.”

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“While I am pleased that the Liberal government is moving ahead with ending first-past-the-post elections, I fear and truly believe the exercise of having a committee look for alternative voting systems has already been determined and what you are offering is show.”

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“I hope that whatever proposal the parliamentary committee decides upon and is accepted by your government, that you put it to a vote by the people through a referendum. If you are going to change the way that we the people elect you, I think we the people should have the final say on the matter.”

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“I am strongly in favour of a public referendum so that I can personally decide on the value of my vote. I do not wish to have politicians decide that value. It is, after all, MY vote.”

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“To say that your majority (with only 39% of the popular vote, to boot) somehow justifies ramming a new system down our throats reminds me of something that Putin, Castro, or even more disgusting historical autocrats would say.”

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“The development of a 21st-century electronic means of assuring that each eligible person may conveniently and cost-effectively cast a vote in our elections merely requires that the powers that be create the intention and provide the support and maintenance to allow such a development to take place.”

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“No referendum — let elected politicians perform their functions with public consultation and input.”

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The Canadian Press