The situation in this election is far different from the one in 2008.

Voting strategically doesn't take strong changing factors into consideration; rather, it takes a past and frozen moment in time, deciding from myriad conditions that no longer apply.

Here are some major changes affecting South Shore - St. Margarets  that are going to make a big difference !

• a much stronger, more inspiring new leader in the Liberal Party.
• Jack Layton's recent health challenges and the local NDP candidate's health challenges. Since politics demands resilience and stamina and energy, is running for office wise in such circumstances? I'm looking at the judgment involved.

• the impact of the NDP government here cancelling the ferry to Maine, dealing another blow to tourism.
• The Liberal candidate, Derek Wells, being a well known, respected and experienced candidate who has already beaten Keddy, the Con., once before (In 08, the Liberals had a relatively unknown candidate).
• the more and more blatant, outrageous and unlawful acts of the Conservative party
• Canada's deep debt and the successful experience of the Liberal party in digging us out in the past. This experience is needed.

All these factors have changed my vote and I'm sure many others as well. This is democracy at work. It is a living thing, responding to present and living conditions!