Politics are recipe for disillusionment

The circus is in town — we are in the midst of a federal election campaign.

Politicians, journalists, media outlets and social networks are very busy. I, like many Canadians, do not have an affiliation with any of the political parties. I am saddened by the level of vitriol, accusations and feigned disdain our politicians exhibit in relation to their political rivals.

All are busy noting the missteps, shortcomings or misdemeanours of others, as viewed from their own perfect, sanctimonious perch.

Trump-style politics has crept into Canada. Our very partisan politicians all strive to depict their opponents as reprehensible evildoers and wretched beings. At an earlier time in Canadian politics, people differed in their views but still had some respect for individuals who had an opposite opinion. In the words of former United States president Barack Obama, “We have lost our moral compass.”

The things that really matter for discussion during this election campaign should include such topics as quality education for our youth, the two-tier tax system perpetuated by both major parties that favours the wealthy, improved health care for Canadians, the armed forces and veterans, proper care for senior citizens, climate and environmental issues, and greatly improving the lives of our First Nations people who often live in Third World conditions.

Other topics could easily be included for additional discussion.

Politicians are making outlandish promises to supposedly improve the lives of Canadians. Most of these grandiose declarations will not come to fruition. Canadians are being bribed with their own tax dollars. Being greatly in debt as a nation does not seem to matter either.

Is it any wonder that twothirds of Canadians are totally disillusioned with politics and government? Ernest Boehnert, Regina