As the federal election campaign edges its way to the Big Day on April 28, there has been something missing from the campaign — again.
Door-knocking by candidates seems to be a forgotten part of setting the stage for voters to make their choice through personal contact, or even through a brochure left in a mailbox.
Perhaps political parties know what they are doing by ignoring the door-to-door style of campaigning. And certainly some householders would rather not be bothered or don’t have the time to be glad-handed by politicians who only come out to play when an election draws near.
I would appreciate having my day interrupted by the ringing of the door bell to find an aspiring prime minister standing on the doorstep ready and able to answer any questions I might have.
I mentioned my feeling of being ignored to Housemate one day as we drove by a few campaign signs in various high-traffic areas.
As we pulled into our driveway, I noticed one of those door-knob brochures sticking out of the mailbox. It was a joyous moment to think that at least one of the candidates had been on the doorstep and had left a calling card behind.
It was a definite disappointment to discover the advertising material did not ask for our vote, but rather wanted us to paint our house. While this business is to be congratulated for having the gumption to ring those doorbells, it was not the visitation we had anticipated.
And so the days went by, and no one came to visit (except the newspaper delivery persons) and the drivers who drop off parcels but forget to ring the bell.
Then I heard the front bell ring. I glanced out the window to see which candidate had come calling. It wasn’t anyone I recognized. And the man and woman didn’t appear to be wearing party buttons or have identifiable brochures in their hands.
The bell sounded again, and still I hesitated. They didn’t look political, according to my version of how one looks political. Then there was a pounding on the door and I decided that I would not answer that salutation of rudeness.
Eventually, the couple put something in the mailbox and meandered up the block.
As soon as it was safe, I opened the door and plucked a folded piece of paper from the mailbox. It was an invitation to engage in a religious conversation at a local church, with no obligation to join the congregation. Snacks were to be provided.
And so, here it is, only a few days before voting day, and candidates have been as scarce as hens' teeth. I wonder if it is only this riding where door knocking is not part of elections, or is it universal, a trend of the times?
It appears my choice of candidate will be determined by means other than personal, on-the-door-step contact. Pity.
Meanwhile, I hope the painters gained some customers and the church had enough snacks to keep their visitors happy.
Joyce Walter can be reached at [email protected]
