Canada is facing a growing divide between political extremes, and many citizens feel increasingly disconnected from the political process. A recent Angus Reid study highlights that 33% of Canadians feel like “orphans” as political parties move further apart. This divide isn’t just theoretical—it’s real and impacts everyday citizens across the country, including in Peterborough.

People putting their hands together for to work together.

The study also reveals that nearly half of Canadians (47%) want leaders who prioritize practical solutions over ideological extremes. This speaks to the growing frustration with parties that focus more on political battles than on the real issues people face. In Peterborough, centrism offers a different approach—one that focuses on unity and solutions rather than division.

According to the study, only 16% of Canadians feel that current political parties truly represent their views. This sentiment is echoed by Jack Henry, Interim CEO of the Centrist Party of Peterborough, who notes, “In a time when many Canadians feel left behind, it’s crucial that we come together to find solutions that work for everyone. The Centrist Party of Peterborough offers a voice for those who are tired of the extremes, offering pragmatic, common-sense solutions that benefit our community.”

For Peterborough, centrism means addressing the community’s most pressing concerns—affordable housing, rural development, and local jobs—without getting caught in partisan battles. It’s about focusing on policies that promote fairness, opportunity, and community growth.

In fact, the data shows that Canadians are not interested in the extremes; they want balanced policies. Only a small fraction of Canadians (16%) feel politically represented by the far-left or far-right. This leaves a significant gap that centrism can fill, offering a voice for the vast majority of Canadians who are looking for something more practical and less divisive.

Centrism is not about being in the middle for the sake of it; it’s about creating space for dialogue, compromise, and practical solutions. It’s about fostering unity and collaboration, especially when it comes to local issues that matter most to Peterborough’s residents.

With an election on the horizon in 2025, Peterborough needs a leadership that listens to all voices and brings people together. The Centrist Party of Peterborough is committed to offering leadership that transcends political polarization, focusing on the future of our community.

Let’s move beyond division. Let’s build a Peterborough that works for everyone.

For more insights into how centrism can reshape Canada’s political landscape, read the full Angus Reid study here.