Our political system depends, fundamentally, on public trusting that the majority of voters will determine the outcome of elections, and having confidence that the people who run elections, or who could influence their outcome, will do their jobs in a non-partisan manner.
That trust and confidence was tested on October 15, 2016. Considering the number of election issues that have been documented in the media, the anecdotal stories coming from scrutineers, election workers, and voters, and also experienced by campaign teams, I feel that it’s time for an independent review of Halifax Elections. Any process that determines the political future of this municipality should be transparent and completely impartial.
A review after each election would allow adjustment in how the Municipal Elections Act is administered and would help to prove and support the integrity of the system. I would support an independent review, and would gladly be involved in the process.
