New Democrats are proud of the campaign we ran. Here in Tobique-Mactaquac, we
increased our percentage of the vote, yet again. Elsewhere, we elected our first
Quebec MP in a general election ever, and our first Alberta MP in 20 years,
right in Stephen Harper's backyard. We now have the largest Ontario caucus in
our history, virtually sweeping Northern Ontario. And once more Jack Layton's
team has the largest percentage of women of any party.
More Canadians voted against Stephen Harper than voted for him. Jack Layton
has said that the first thing the Prime Minister should do is to reach out to
other party leaders to build a plan that Canadians would support. We must learn
to work together, for the good of the country.
New Democrats campaigned on how we would help ordinary Canadians. We will
continue to advance those policies in the parliament Canadians have chosen.
I am grateful to the people of Tobique-Mactaquac who supported me in my own
campaign. I am grateful to those, young and old, who asked good questions and
showed keen interest in politics and the health of our wonderful country.
One question, asked at the Woodstock High debate, focused on the apathy that
many have toward elections and the process of democracy. As I said that morning,
my own discouragement with the political atmosphere did not send me away from
the ballot box. Instead I jumped right into the fray.
The only way to make a difference in government is to become actively
involved. Some of us are privileged to do that as candidates. I am disappointed
that so few people have taken the opportunity to be involved through their
vote.
Still, I hope that my participation has encouraged others to do what they can
to make their own dream for Canada come true. Let's work together for a
prosperous and happy future for us all.
Alice
