Local businessman T.J. Grewal is putting his name behind Todd Doherty as Cariboo-Prince George’s next Tory candidate.
Grewal said he would provide comment for why he is supporting Doherty through a press release, but did not send it in time for The Citizen’s print deadline.
Doherty, who was already backed by longtime MP Dick Harris, said he is humbled by the millionaire businessman's support, which comes with as many as 1,500 card-carrying supporters.
He said Grewal's nod moves beyond the symbolic.
"It's a team effort now. We've joined forces," Doherty said.
Grewal was reached twice by phone Wednesday, saying both times he could not confirm the name yet but had a press release ready and would comment later in the day.
The press release didn't arrive and he did not return numerous calls before deadline late Wednesday.
Doherty wouldn't comment whether he can expect a significant boost given Grewal's reported numbers, but acknowledged in a close race - like Harris's win by 16 votes in 2004 - it could have some impact.
"Every vote counts which is why it's so important that as we move forward as a team, T.J. and myself, that we're identifying those votes and we're working together to make sure that both his votes, his supporters and our supporters now - together our supporters - are getting out to vote."
Doherty said more than 3,000 members will have a chance to vote on Dec. 12 and 13, with some reporting the number to be around 3,150.
"T.J. is well respected in this community not just within the Indo community but within the business community," he said.
"T.J. worked very hard on his campaign," said Doherty, adding he was disappointed when he learned Grewal couldn't run.
Grewal missed the membership requirement for candidates by one week, and the rule wasn't waived by the national office when requested.
"We want a fair and equitable race for all," said Doherty, noting he's heard the frustration of Grewal's supporters that Grewal was ruled ineligible.
"I think there's more motivation there," Doherty said. "I think people want to come out and make sure they have a voice and they continue to have a voice and they're backing an electable candidate."
Neither of Doherty's opponents - Nick Fedorkiw or Shari Green - would comment on what that means for member support in the candidate race.
"I guess it means that T.J.'s ballot will have Todd written on it," Green said.
"What everybody else's ballot says is up to them and I look forward to engaging with people who are genuinely interested in ensuring the best possible candidate is selected."
Fedorkiw said he didn't have a comment on Grewal's
announcement.
"I'm out there trying to get support from all members," said Fedorkiw.
"I think the people are going to make their own decisions on who to get behind," said Fedorkiw, although he conceded Grewal might have some sway over the 1,500 members he said he signed up.
None of the candidates have commented publicly on what numbers they brought in, but all say they have a fighting chance.
"I have a tremendous amount of support that is pretty broad-based in the community and in the riding," Green said. "I know where I see my support and I know where I see I have some work to do and that's where we're focused."
