Q. What is it like running in a riding with such a long history of voting Conservative or Reform?
A. It is a challenge at times, but I have faith in my community to vote for change.
Q. What is your prediction on voter turnout? Do you think people are sick of going to the polls?
A. I don’t think people are sick of going to the polls. I hope the turnout is high, especially with our youth.
Q. We’ve heard a lot from the Conservatives about the dangers of coalition governments. What do you think of forming a coalition with the other parties?
A. Jack has always said he is happily prepared to work with other parties to get the job done for Canadians.
Q. What do you think of the fact that your leader is doing so well in Quebec in particular and apparently in B.C. too?
A. I am very happy about the increase in support. Finally, Canadians can see who is the best leader for our country.
Q. Do you feel like you have a chance to win?
A. With hard work and support everyone has a chance to win
Q. How would this riding specifically benefit from going NDP?
A. NDP is putting forward practical ideas to renew vital infrastructure to attract new jobs, strengthen health care by hiring more doctors and nurses, and also strengthen public pensions for our seniors.
Q. Should you be elected, what would be your personal commitment to this riding?
A. I am born and raised in the Okanagan, so this community means very much to me. I will stay in the community and take this riding’s concerns to Ottawa and do my very best at getting the issues heard.
Q. If elected, what specific infrastructure goals would you have for the Shuswap?
A. This is a difficult question. I would have to hear from my constituents and see what people want as a priority and do that. I can think of so many projects that need the federal government’s attention.
See the News Q and A with Green candidate Greig Crockett on page 9.