Can You Read the Signs?

Oct., 20, 2006 Toronto Star
Election Signs 'Key'

......Residents across the city awoke yesterday to find signs of all colours and designs in front of homes and on storefront windows, and that will only increase in the days leading up to the Nov. 13 vote.

Though the 1,379 candidates running for council, mayor and trustee in the GTA are also using the Internet, all-candidates debates, door knocking, and flyers to get their names and platforms out, experts say signs play a key role come election day.

"In municipal elections there are no parties, no leaders and a lower profile. So name recognition is key, key, key,'' says Nelson Wiseman, an associate professor of politics at the University of Toronto.

"For a lot of people that vote, the only thing they know is `That guy had a poster up and I guess he cares, so I'm going to vote for him'" Wiseman adds......

I do agree, that name recognition is important, in an election. But, do folks here in Clarington really think that if one sign is up that it means the candidate cares? And if many signs are up, then that candidate cares more?

I shiver.

Let's say that statement from Professor Wiseman, is true. (Where did Wiseman glean that information from, anyway?) Are we really that gullible?

Gullibility is not one of my weaknesses, because, when I look at all our signage, I see $$$$$'s. Money, and a lot of it, has been stuck in mud and gravel, up and down our roadways. So, who is spending all the bucks? If their own bucks are being spent in such a lavish fashion, I have to wonder...what if it were our hard earned tax dollars? Would there be more care, concern and consideration, because it was someone else's money?

Am I going to vote for the one with the most signs, because they must care more?
I don't think so!!!