Cory Longley has been confirmed as the NDP candidate in Prince George-Peace River-Northern Rockies.
The Dawson Creek plumber was nominated Tuesday night, and says he’s looking to shake things up in what he calls a "vanity election" set for Sept. 20.
“It’s all about possibilities, and being ready for better. And I’m not seeing that from our current MP,” said Longley.
Incumbent Conservative MP Bob Zimmer is running for his fourth term and is also being challenged by Maverick Party candidate Dave Jeffers. Catharine Kendall is listed as the candidate for the Greens, and ran for the party in the 2019 election. A Liberal candidate has not been named.
Longley said the election is bad timing and a vanity move by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Liberal government, noting the party is out of touch with the country.
“I think it’s a joke. This guy, this prime minister we have right now, did not have to call this election,” said Longley. "This is a vanity election."
Healthcare and care for all remains top of mind, said Longley, noting he’s concerned residents are not getting their needs met.
“One of the biggest issues we face in smaller communities in the North here is the availability of doctors and nurses,” he said. “Why has there not been stronger communication between our MP and the provincial government? Where’s the leadership? I’m not seeing it.”
Longley said the failings he sees can be chalked up to a lack of imagination and unwillingness to work together with opposing parties as a coalition. He said minority governments suit Canada best, and hopes the NDP can take the opposition seat again in the House of Commons.
“I’m under no illusions. I don’t think the NDP is going to get a majority government this election, all we want is a strong opposition,” he said. “I want people to vote with their conscience, I don’t want people to be wasting their votes on compromised votes.”
The nomination process for candidates closes Monday, Aug. 30, according to Elections Canada. A complete list of confirmed candidates will be available Wednesday, Sept. 1.
Election day goes Sept. 20 with four days of advanced voting set for Sept. 10 to 13.
