The Great MMP Debate

Today is election day. It is also referendum day. Some of you have probably already voted. Some of you are planning on voting later today. Some of you are likely undecided. And some of you have already decided that you're not going to vote.

The main reason that people do not vote is because they feel their vote does not matter. Proponents of the Mixed Member Proportional system believe that instituting their system of choice will cause more votes to matter. "Every vote counts and no party gets more or less than it earned at the ballot box" claims the main page of VoteForMMP.ca.

Of course, not everyone agrees. NoMMP.ca counters that "the proposed MMP system shifts power from the local voter in ridings across Ontario to the power brokers at Queen's Park."

Each side has a point to counter their opponent's point, as well. One site states that "Governments that win with less than majority support nonetheless claim a "mandate from the people". Once any party controls a majority of seats, nothing can stop a premier from enacting unpopular laws that are not supported by a majority of voters" while the other says "the strength of our representation would weaken dramatically if MMP were to become our electoral system... Who exactly do these list MPPs represent? MMP has no real answer. They sort of do not represent anyone, which means that there is less accountability and weaker democracy in Ontario."

Which system is right? That's up for you to decide. If you haven't voted yet please take the time to read up as much as you can on both systems and make an informed choice when you get to the polls.