Why Would Anyone Vote NDP?

So, why would anyone vote NDP? No, really. It is not a facetious question - it is a serious one. In the context of the current political structure, given the recent election history, and the options facing Canadians, I would like to suggest that it makes absolutely no sense to vote NDP.

Don't get me wrong - the NDP may have many attractive policy platforms and qualities. Back in the days when Canada had a fairly stable system of three political parties, the NDP long fulfilled an important role as a moderating influence, keeping the Liberals in particular from straying too far to the center-right. The NDP served as the conscience of the nation on many social and labour-related issues. It continues to have important things to say about many topics. And Jack Layton, even if he has been in the role far too long, is in many ways an attractive party leader. But none of that means that anyone should vote for the party in this election.