Dear Editor:
Several candidates have tried to frame this election to be about independents versus a progressive "machine."
The term "machine" evokes visions of dozens of paid outside organizers descending on New West.
In reality, our entire campaign is run by volunteers who are donating their time contacting voters, putting up signs, and dropping off leaflets. Dozens of progressive volunteers are donating their time because volunteer labour is the only way progressive candidates have a chance competing against developer-backed politicians with deep pockets.
It's flattering to think of our small campaign with our prehistoric phones, kitschy wall art, and run-down coffee maker as a machine. However, I suspect when they accuse us of being a "machine" they are really lamenting a lack of people willing to donate hundreds of hours of their time to see them elected.
Jane Player, by email
