‘What do I want Canada to look like?’: Regina students hold mock vote

As Canadians prepare to head to the polls, so did students in Regina.

Grade 4 students at St. Elizabeth School took part in a mock vote on Thursday to learn about the democratic process.

Saskatchewan Education Minister Gord Wyant visited the classroom in the morning to talk to students about how elections work. Students also learned about some of the real-world issues being discussed across the country and found out where they stand.

In the afternoon, they lined up outside a polling station set up in the school using real Elections Canada ballot boxes and a ballot with the names of the real candidates in the Regina-Wascana riding.

“I felt nervous,” Julien Trombley said after casting his vote.

Trombley said his parents gave him advice on how to vote, like “hope the candidates tell the truth” and to “not tell people who you voted for.”

Trombley may have been a little too truthful himself, revealing he voted for Conservative candidate Michael Kram “because my parents did it,” adding he hopes his parents are making the right choice.

His favourite part of voting was how quick it was.

“It took like 30 seconds for me,” said Trombley.

Kadence Hrushowy said it felt good to learn how to vote.

“I just voted for the thing I’m comfortable with and I really would like to win. It was kind of uncomfortable when we had to go into a little box but I’m OK with it,” said Hrushowy, speaking about voting in the privacy of the polling station.

He explained the honesty of the party leaders was on his mind but believes he chose a candidate who tells the truth.

“Some people lie when they make promises,” Hrushowy said. “Sometimes they’re kind of sketchy when they lie. Sometimes they think they’re doing good but on TV and stuff it just comes out wrong.”

Mireya Lukiwski had several issues on her mind when voting, including the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, carbon tax and environment.

She weighed the pros and cons and took a look at what the different parties envision Canada to look like.

“Then I thought, ‘What do I think? What do I want Canada to look like over the next four years?’ ” Lukiwski said.

She believes it’s important people each make their own decision while voting to ensure every Canadian is represented.

Overall, Lukiwski found it to be a great experience to learn how to vote when she’s older.

“I actually quite enjoyed it because I like to be treated like I’m older than I am,” Lukiwski said.

The results of the student vote are kept secret until after the real election on Monday.