When Yukon residents head to the polls on Monday, they will encounter an additional ballot alongside the one for choosing their MLA. However, some voters are expressing their lack of knowledge about the plebiscite on electoral reform. The plebiscite will inquire whether voters prefer to replace the current first-past-the-post system with a ranked ballot system.
Darryl Yeo, speaking to CBC News in Whitehorse, admitted that he was unsure whether to vote “yes” or “no” on the plebiscite since it was the first time he had heard of it. Nikita Bailey also stated that she was unaware of the plebiscite, expressing surprise that the topic was not discussed at a recent leaders’ election forum in Whitehorse.
Bailey emphasized the importance of highlighting such issues during community discussions and mentioned that she would likely vote “no.” Similarly, Joshua Desmarais, who had not heard of the plebiscite either, declared that he would not participate in the upcoming election, expressing disillusionment with the political system.
Liz Johnson, like others, was unaware of the plebiscite and expressed uncertainty about her vote, indicating that she would need to understand its implications before deciding. On the contrary, Dave Borud stated that he would vote “yes” for electoral reform after researching the topic and drawing inspiration from similar systems in Australia and New Zealand.
Kenneth Mayer voiced opposition to change, believing that the current system functions effectively without needing adjustments. Notably, the plebiscite outcomes are not legally binding, leaving the decision on whether to act on the results to the incoming government.
The Liberal and NDP parties have both committed to implementing a ranked ballot system if the plebiscite indicates the need for electoral reform, while the Yukon Party has asserted its stance against altering the existing system regardless of the plebiscite outcome.