Public opinion, parties, and elections

“It’s goint to be a fascinating seat to watch” – Prof. Stewart Prest on the fate of West Vancouver-Sea to Sky in B.C.’s election

“It’s goint to be a fascinating seat to watch” – Prof. Stewart Prest on the fate of West Vancouver-Sea to Sky in B.C.’s election

Professor Stewart Prest highlights the competition for the West Vancouver-Sea to Sky seat with the incumbent BC United MLA retiring. Prest believes the Liberal Party’s recent rebranding, a divided right and a strong NDP campaign could lead to NDP success.

Prof. Gerald Baier surprised by Pierre Poilievre’s fundraisers

Prof. Gerald Baier surprised by Pierre Poilievre’s fundraisers

Professor Gerald Baier is suprised by Pierre Poilievre’s choice to host fundraising events in private homes rather than more public venues given Poilievre’s past comments about access to the prime minister and ministers.

Prof. Gerald Baier explains the age difference in Canadian and American leaders

Prof. Gerald Baier explains the age difference in Canadian and American leaders

The average age of Presidents is increasing, while the average age of Prime Ministers is decreasing. Professor Gerald Baier explains this is due to the higher cost of entering elections in the U.S.

Prof. Stewart Prest discusses the controversy surrounding Minister Lawrence MacAulay

Prof. Stewart Prest discusses the controversy surrounding Minister Lawrence MacAulay

Minister MacAulay has been scrutinized for posting a picture eating lobster in Asia. Professor Stewart Prest explains that MacAulay needed to make a clearer distinction between professional obligation and personal enjoyment in the post given that many are struggling domestically with high grocery prices.

Prof. Stewart Prest on the budget options available to B.C.’s NDP

Prof. Stewart Prest on the budget options available to B.C.’s NDP

Professor Stewart Prest says the B.C. NDP can focus on quick wins or long-term sustainable solutions in their new budget. Their decision is particularly important given the upcoming election.

Prof. Paul Quirk says replacing Biden as the Democratic candidate is unlikely

Prof. Paul Quirk says replacing Biden as the Democratic candidate is unlikely

Biden’s age and cognitive abilities have come under scrutiny with Democrats reportedly wishing to replace him as candidate. Professor Paul Quirk says removing Biden is unlikely due to a lack of “organizational capabilities” in the party.

Prof. Paul Quirk discusses the heightened importance of the 2024 Vice President candiates

Prof. Paul Quirk discusses the heightened importance of the 2024 Vice President candiates

Professor Paul Quirk explains that American votes may pay closer attention to vice president candidates because of the older presidential nominees. Vice president candidates are successfully expressing confidence for the presidential candidates, while also declaring themself fit for the role.

Prof. Stewart Prest discusses Canadian politicians taking a stance on global issues

Prof. Stewart Prest discusses Canadian politicians taking a stance on global issues

Professor Stewart Prest says whether local politicians respond to global issues depends on the context and the importance of maintaining working relationships. He says that “conflict involves a battle for global public opinion” and while championing a cause outside one’s daily work may win applause from some contituents, it may alienate others.

Prof. Max Cameron discusses Canadian electoral reform

Prof. Max Cameron discusses Canadian electoral reform

Motion 86 failed in the House of Commons despite Prime Minister Trudeau’s 2015 promise for electoral reform. Professor Max Cameron discusses the current First Past-the-Post system and explains how Proportional Representation and Ranked Ballot Voting systems would work.

Prof. Matthew Wright’s new article studies Asian American representation in U.S. Legislatures

Prof. Matthew Wright’s new article studies Asian American representation in U.S. Legislatures

Professor Matthew Wright’s new article aims to fill the research gap about Asian American representation in U.S. Legislatures. Wright studies their ingroup support and cross-over appeal to other races.