LISTEN: Sask. seniors reflect on the evolution of Canadian politics

The evolution of politics is something not many people think about — unless they’ve lived through it.

For Betty Johnston, who voted for the first time in 1940 in Lang, Sask., she said as a woman it was just nice to have a say in something back then.

“I felt very important because there was no representation of women anywhere. We were told what to do,” the 101-year-old remembered.

Claude Crozon said he’ll never forget how nervous he was voting in 1953 at 19 years old in small-town Quebec.

“It was a little bit challenging because I didn’t know any (candidates), and I didn’t know who to vote for. You’re influenced by your parents, so I voted what my parents voted,” he recalled, noting at 85 years old he still hasn’t changed his political views.

Looking back now, Crozon said politics has shifted from being about platforms to politicians.

“(Party leaders) were more honest and outgoing than today. I think they think more about themselves than about the people,” he said.

Johnston agreed, saying she preferred the politics back in her day because “there was less corruption.”

However, Lumsden’s Jean Faye maintains — no matter the year — government leaders never change.

“I think it’s exactly the same: They promise a lot and deliver very little,” the 93-year-old said with a chuckle.

980 CJME’s Jessie Anton paid a visit to a Regina retirement home to speak with seniors about the evolution of politics ahead of the Oct. 21 federal election.