Canadians’ conception of the appropriate role for government is changing significantly – and last month’s election increased, rather than decreased, the democratic discontents of “disgruntled voters.”
These are two of the most relevant findings of a public opinion survey sponsored by the Manning Foundation for Democratic Education and conducted by André Turcotte of Carleton University and Allan Gregg of Harris/Decima.
When respondents were asked whether their confidence in governments’ ability to tackle big challenges was increasing or decreasing, two to three times more Canadians reported their confidence to be decreasing. In particular, the survey found confidence to be decreasing in governments’ ability to improve economic productivity, reform health care, deal with climate change and handle moral issues.
What do these findings mean for the country? What challenges or opportunities do they pose for Stephen Harper’s newly elected majority government? Preston Manning joined us Wednesday to discuss these issues and take your questions on the future of conservatism in Canada.
Review the discussion in the panel below. Mobile users can click here for a smartphone-friendly interface.
