Fact VS Fiction
Canada's New Political Divide
by Vern Sabeski

---

What happens when hate and misinformation start to shape the beliefs of voters and the policies of governments? Can our democracy survive if each political party’s base is driven by an alternative view of reality? This scenario is playing out before our eyes. Most of us know that the Canadian political landscape is different than it was even ten years ago, but we don’t know why. Worse, we’re caught up in the noise of social media, “alternative facts,” and conspiracy theories that skew our view of reality. How do we know what’s fact and what’s fiction? Who can we trust? In this critical analysis, veteran political advisor and tech entrepreneur Vernon Sabeski identifies the factors that have made our political climate one of extremes. Social media, the rise of populism, and long-simmering frustrations with pandemic policy have fueled hateful rhetoric, scapegoating, and distortion of the facts. This climate is undermining democracy. All citizens must step back and look critically at what’s going on; Fact vs Fiction will help you see our current moment with clear eyes.

---

With a university degree and a few years of public sector experience, Vern Sabeski bought a used computer from a classified ad, taught himself to code, and created one of the country’s largest municipal government software companies, All-Net Municipal Solutions. The company’s suite of products are implemented in local government networks across the country. After graduating from the University of Winnipeg in 1993, Sabeski worked at the Manitoba Legislature in various roles for the Conservative Caucus and Executive Council as a policy analyst. Over a twenty-five-year period, he volunteered and managed numerous campaigns for Members of Parliament, Members of Legislative Assemblies, and municipal officials. With his experience in the worlds of technology, business, and campaign management, Sabeski brings a uniquely informed perspective to the urgent issue of our current political climate. A serial entrepreneur, Sabeski continues his pursuit of the next great idea while sharing his insights and experiences with others in the fields of government and technology. Since the sale of All-Net Municipal Solutions in 2021, Sabeski, his wife Hayley, and Eddie the cat have spent their time in retirement trying to escape the noise. They live in Sandy Hook, Manitoba.

---

Contributors

Author

Vern Sabeski