"It's the economy, stupid" was a phrase coined by American political consultant James Carville, who was Bill Clinton's campaign manager during the 1992 U.S. presidential election.

Times have changed, but the phrase still holds up. No matter how good a politician's promises are, they won't hold their weight at the polls if voters' pants are loose and pocketbooks tight.

In the U.S., and now in Canada, we are watching this play out on the federal stage. Despite the divisiveness in mainstream media, most Canadians want to help their fellow citizens and create a better world for
their children.

However, a sluggish economy and sky-high prices for almost everything are making it hard for Canadians
just to get by.

Money spent on special interests are proving to be a "nice to have" but not in line with most Canadians'
core beliefs.

• Bloated budgets, increasing deficits and
  out-of-control interest payments will negatively
  impact the cash available for social programs.