I’m not interested in politics - but I believe in democracy

I’m not interested in politics. It’s true. 

And I have come across many in our community who feel the same way - it’s one of the most common things I’ve heard.

But I do believe in democracy. 

I believe we can save democracy from politics, which is why I’ve approached the past eight months a little differently.

Here’s what I mean:

Politics is mudslinging. 

It’s calculated and is meant to bring down another person. 

Democracy, is about working with others to accomplish positive things for our community. 

That’s why my website, postcards, phone calls, and in-person conversations will continue to be about the priorities of our community - investing in health, in housing, and taking action on climate change.

Politics is making grandiose promises, only to break them after an election. 

The fact is I can’t promise to fix climate change, or make life affordable overnight.  

The words used on my postcards are intentional, “Mike would work hard on.” 

However, what I can promise is how I will conduct myself. 

I can promise to work across party lines. I can promise to be respectful in the House of Commons, even when I may disagree with another Parliamentarian. And I can promise to push for policies that support the common ground that Kitchener has said is important.

Democracy is at it’s best when our elected representatives are willing to work together on our shared priorities.

Politics is rehashing party talking points, assuming we are not smart enough to see through them. 

Politics is representing a party first and foremost, and our community second. 

Democracy is staying honest, answering questions directly, and representing community first, party second.

This is one of the main reasons why I chose the Green Party.  Green MPs are not only allowed, but encouraged, to put their communities first, even if it may mean disagreeing with the party. 

It means that the party platform is just the starting point of our conversations. 

My focus is on finding shared priorities across the 100,000 people in Kitchener Centre.

Politics is calculated.

It’s immediately asking “Do you know who you are voting for?” when knocking on someone’s door. Or hanging up when a resident shares they are still undecided. 

Democracy is listening to a resident’s concerns, even if you may not agree on everything.

Democracy is representing everyone, regardless of how they choose to vote. 

Democracy takes more time - but I believe it’s time well spent.

Democracy is supposed to be inspiring.

Democracy is about meaningful action that benefits communities. 

If we are able to turn down the politics, we can reclaim the space and discussion that was democracy.  

Over the past 8 months, my focus has been on democracy.  As your Member of Parliament, it would remain that way.

We’re all tired of politics.