While it\’s hard to forecast exactly what high voter turnout at the advance polls means, one thing is for certain. New Westminster voters have flocked to the advance polls in very large numbers. In fact, it is estimated that overall voter turnout is about 50% higher than in the 2014 civic election. It is expected that this election will be very close with four New West Progressive candidates vying to capture seats on city council and the same number on the school board.
\”Based on our voter tracking, we know that we have a lot of support out there in the community,\” says Nancy Graham, New West Progressives Campaign Manager. \”Even a 5% higher turnout on Election Day means there is a good likelihood the District Labour Council endorsed \’Team Cote\’ won\’t be able to win all 7 seats again. This is shaping up to be a very close election and every vote is going to count. That\’s why we\’re thrilled to see so many people show up at the advance polls.\”![\"\"](\"https://nwprogressives.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Wheretovote.jpg\")
A high number of voters have also been walking through the doors at the campaign office located at 648 Sixth Street for the better part of two weeks. Last week we had an estimated 55 people come in to speak with our volunteers in a single day – with a majority of them asking why they did not receive a voter card in the mail. According to the Chief Electoral Officer, the $280K budget provided by City Hall was not sufficient to cover the cost of a $10,000 direct mail piece.
Polling stations throughout the city will be open on Saturday from 8 am to 8 pm. Final results will start to roll in on the big screens at our Election Night Event shortly after 8: 15 pm. Complimentary tickets are still available for the event, but seating is limited. You need to register by clicking on the this link.
If you want to see where you can vote, click on this link. You should bring with you two pieces of ID [preferably a photo ID for one of them], but it is not required if you have no fixed address. If that is the case, here are some alternatives to standard ID:
- A homeless person may provide an income assistance ministry \’s client monthly report form
- Local shelters can provide letters stating that the individual has/does reside there (see attached attestation letter for use by social services agencies)
- A prescription medicine bottle that includes the persons name
- A medical ID bracelet
- Old drivers license/SIN card
- Debit/Credit Card
- Copies of MSP coverage and/or ID’s that the Ministry has on file for a client
If you have any questions, don\’t hesitate to contact our campaign office at 778-863-7201. See you at the polls on Saturday!