Political change meets local opposition

Orange is clearly the party favourite in Windsor-Essex, but there is something to be said in strategically voting for change.

This year’s election landed Windsor in third party status after electing three New Democratic Party MP’s leaving Windsor without Liberal representation in Parliament.

Mayor Drew Dilkens believes having Windsor’s voice heard will not be difficult. He believes having MP’s that were elected in this area who have to come back in four years and tell constituents what they were able to deliver means our voice will still be heard.

“We are certainly not in line for any awards from the government for grants and projects,” said Dilkens.

According to Dilkens, Windsor would have been better served to elect members who would have been a part of majority government.

“It’s important to think strategically about how you vote to make sure we have the best representation and the best voice possible for the community,” said Dilkens.

Rosemarie De Los Reyes proudly cast her vote in Windsor-West. Like many, De Los Reyes said she believes voting is an opportunity for her voice to be heard.

“I came out to express my opinion as to who should be the leaders of Canada especially here in Windsor,” said De Los Reyes. “Whoever wins, I propose they should execute more changes.”

Unfortunately, Windsorites voted the wrong kind of change according to Lydia Miljan, an associate professor of political science at the University of Windsor.

“We’re not even part of the conversation from an official opposition nor are we around the cabinet or caucus table where decisions are being made,” said Miljan.

Miljan expects Windsor will still benefit from micro-economic policies, especially trade and manufacturing. She said she believes we may not see the same infrastructure dollars that have been promised by Trudeau; and not likely to the same extent which was experienced with previous liberal representatives. “It is not impossible, it just means the municipal government will have to step-up to access those funds,” said Miljan.

Miljan said it will become more combatant upon Mayor Dilkens to foster relations with the federal and provincial government to have his point of view heard.

“I will continue to make our voice heard,” said Dilkens. “At the end of the day it’s about what we can actually extract from the government in terms of projects and dollars…our concern is making sure we get our fair share for this community.”

According to Dilkens, planning is key.

“Making sure we have a clear plan for the automotive sector is paramount for this community…I want to make sure we can maintain this plan, that we’re competitive as a region, a province and a county,” he said.

Although the NDP has taken Windsor’s seats both federally and provincially, with the liberal majority at both levels, Windsor is in for change.