Electing the Senate in Canada

This paper explains why Canada’s Senate should be elected instead of appointed. Many Canadians today are concerned that the Senate is an appointed legislative body, and not an elected one. The legislative power to amend or defeat bills should be a responsibility that is divided equally amongst all of Canada’s provinces, which can also strengthen federal/provincial relationships. In any position of power, one must lead by setting a good example. Some Canadian Senators in recent history have done the opposite by committing acts of dishonesty and fraudulence. Unfair patronage appointments can lead to feelings of doubt amongst ordinary citizens, and also to feelings of hopelessness for those who have the ambition to become a politician within the federal system. Although the idea of reforming the Canadian Senate to an elected body has been formally reviewed, it is still appointed. This is a problem for earning trust as accountability can become compromised.