In the anything can happen world of politics, B.C. might just be a player in the upcoming federal election after all.

The Liberals have fallen into third place nationally, while the NDP have steadily risen since Jack Layton’s stand out performances during the two televised debates.

The Conservatives have maintained their lead but are still wavering between minority and majority territory.

This election was supposed to have no really compelling issues and coming into the race it appeared this would hold true.

But polling has consistently been showing that Layton and the NDP have gained traction with voters and are now poised to be the official opposition.

What has been most surprising is Layton’s seeming breakthrough in Quebec, where he has been giving even Gilles Ducceppe a run for his money.

The Conservatives have been able to reach into areas they have long been shut out of, namely with women voters and youth.

Another interesting point in this election campaign has been the utilization of social media to reach both new and experienced voters alike.

All of the parties have been utilizing Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube, in a way that has energized their campaigns and added a form of immediacy that elections have seemingly been lacking as of late.

With the pundits all predicting the lowest voter turnout in years, it looks like this could be easily turned on its head if the advance polls are any indication, what with long lineups and record turnouts.

In this election there is much at stake and Canada could look very different than it has in the past. And with so many of the races being very closely contested, every vote will count in this election like no other, especially here in British Columbia.

This is the perfect opportunity for voters to shun the complacency of the past, engage, and make a difference that will affect us all.

So don’t follow the polls, but follow your heart and vote for the candidate you feel will best represent your interests and those of the riding.

Let us show that this election and no election should ever be about nothing and let’s make B.C. a genuine player in the federal game.