Not Who, But What: Barrie Residents Share What Matters This Federal Election

What are you voting for—not who are you voting for?

That’s the question we asked Barrie residents.

On Monday, April 28, Canadians will head to the polls to elect a new Parliament and Prime Minister.

Advance voting runs from Friday, April 18, to Monday, April 21, with polling stations open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. local time.

Simcoe Community Media volunteer Christine Nayler joined me outside the Barrie Farmers’ Market at City Hall to ask locals what issues matter most to them.

Wendy told us she wants leaders who prioritize people over corporations, with strong support for healthcare, education, and global engagement.
“I want someone who’s going to look out for us on a global stage. In the federal election, provincial, municipal—I dig in a little more—but right now, I just want to be proud of who I vote for, and proud of our country,” she said.

Mark, a dual Canadian-American citizen, advocates for better resource management and long-term national prosperity.
“I’m a dual citizen, so I get to be frustrated in two countries,” he joked. “Canada is a rich and viable country. We should be doing more to export and promote our natural resources. Financial constraints are understandable—but there’s also tremendous waste in some aspects of government.”

He also expressed frustration with low voter turnout.
“What really gets me is that, for example, in a recent provincial election, only 41% of people voted. In a democracy, I find that abhorrent,” he said. “Big picture? Healthcare, financial prosperity, and making this a better country. Canada could be a premier nation for the next 50 years, but we’ve got to work to be that.”

Phyllis wants thoughtful, future-focused leadership with national transportation, healthcare, and cooperation strategies.
“What’s going on in the States is definitely influencing us,” she said, “but I also want to make sure we move in a direction that’s thoughtful as a country. That’s one of my biggest influencers. I’m thinking about my children and grandchildren—their future.”

And Michael, who chooses not to vote, rejects traditional politics altogether, calling instead for truth, reflection, and a shift from an economy-driven system to a community-focused society.
“What’s important to me is that we strive to become a society, not an economy. Right now, we live in an economy where everyone’s running around trying to save money or make money at someone else’s expense,” he said.