Election campaigns are filled with bold ideas. Some are supported by a clear plan. Others are closer to a slogan.
You do not need to be a policy expert to tell the difference. Put each campaign promise through four simple tests: Power, Plan, Price and Proof.
1. POWER
Can the Position Actually Do It?
First, ask whether the promise falls within the authority of the office being sought.
Would it require a Council or School Board vote? Is another level of government responsible? Does the candidate need funding or approval from someone else?
2. PLAN
Have They Explained How?
“Fix traffic,” “improve safety” and “support students” are worthwhile goals—but they are not yet plans.
Look for specific actions, a realistic timeline and an explanation of what would happen first.
3. PRICE
How Will It Be Paid For?
New services, facilities and programs cost money. Even a promise to reduce taxes may affect existing services.
Would the funding come from taxes, the current budget, grants, borrowing or reductions elsewhere?
4. PROOF
How Will We Know It Worked?
A credible promise should lead to a result residents can recognize or measure.
Instead of simply promising “faster permits,” for example, a candidate could identify a target processing time or a specific improvement to the approval process.
THE BOTTOM LINE
You do not need to agree with every candidate’s priorities. But you should be able to understand what they are proposing, whether they have the authority to pursue it, how they would approach it, what it may cost and what success would look like.
A strong campaign promise does more than sound good.
It holds up when voters ask questions.
Sources: Province of British Columbia—Mayor and Councillors | Abbotsford School District—Role of the Board
Leave a Reply