Choice a healthy political diet

The democratic spirit is certainly there in a former county residents hope to vie as an independent in Central Nova in the next federal election whenever it is held.

Sebastian Ronan, who at one time lived in River John and now resides in Pugwash River, is working at getting the 100 signatures he needs to file nomination papers. Ronan says he is ready to put his name forth as a matter of principle, describing a controversial non-aggression deal between the Greens and the Liberals in the riding a political act.

With voters, in particular, Liberal voters, having been denied what would be their first choice on a ballot, this offering from an independent. Certainly more political choice, especially after a degree of choice has been erased in a behind-the-scenes agreement, is a healthy thing.

Ronan said that the Elizabeth May-Stephane Dion pact can be contested at the electoral level. For those Liberal voters who are opposed to having their freedom of political expression denied and who will not vote Green, Conservative or NDP, I am offering the electoral option for a more constructive protest vote than merely staying home on election night."

There is value in a protest vote, as long as it is strong and measurable. But many voters will be thinking about likely outcomes in this riding when that election happens.

Shortly after the pact was made, there were ruminations from some Liberals of possibly running an independent Liberal. With that came speculation about how well a Liberal, without the Liberal brand, would do, especially considering the partys mediocre placings in the past couple of elections.

We should keep in mind there could well be someone representing the Christian Heritage Party as well thus plenty of potential to split the vote.

We welcome choice, and although a betting man might not be swayed in forecasting a winner, we also welcome the broadened discussion when the debates begin.