PowerPoint 5: Local Candidates and Issues

What is a riding? A riding is the name given to a geographical area represented by an elected official. It is also known as an electoral district or constituency. The size of a riding is determined by population size and geographical features (roads, landmarks, etc.). Urban ridings are small and densely populated, while rural ridings are large and sparse.

What is an MP? At the federal level in Canada, the elected official is called a Member of Parliament (MP). MPs represent the needs and interests of their constituents (people living in their riding) and address issues at the local level. Canadians will elect 338 MPs in the current federal election.

How do we select our MPs? Canada uses a system called First-Past-The-Post (FPTP) for selecting MPs. One member is selected for each riding. Citizens can only choose one candidate/party on the ballot. The winning candidate must receive the most number of votes.

How does our system work? Below is an example of a riding with 100 ballots cast in the election. CANDIDATENUMBER OF VOTES Leila (Banana Party) 40 Mohamed (Pear Party) 15 Emma (Apple Party) 11 Thomas (Independent) 34 Leila wins because she has the most votes.

How does someone run for election? Elections Canada is the independent, non-partisan agency responsible for conducting federal elections. A person running for election is called a candidate. Any person who wants to run in the federal election must file nomination papers with Elections Canada by the nomination deadline. Political parties select candidates to run for their party in ridings across the country. Candidates can also run as an independent or without any association to a party. Elections Canada posts the names of the candidates on their website:

Your Own Political Views Your political views are developed from your experiences, personal feelings and opinions. Your views are also shaped by talking to people whose opinions you respect, by researching in the media and by reflecting on your own values.

Getting to know the Candidates There are many ways to gather information about your local candidates: town hall meetings or candidate debates, radio and television, newspaper and magazines, websites and social media, and campaign offices and events. To make an informed decision, it is helpful to reflect on how you feel about the topics discussed throughout the campaign.

Final Thoughts How should you evaluate candidates? What characteristics or skills do you expect from your MP? What local issues are important to you?