Letter to the Editor

Media pundits are saying the Kootenay-Columbia will be one of the most interesting federal contests in the upcoming election.

Our region becomes more exciting every day, with more people finding the beauty and opportunity that exists nestled in our mountain communities. With that being said the Kootenay-Columbia riding has become an important one.

For progressives, the last federal election was all about ABC – Anyone But Conservatives. And in Kootenay-Columbia it worked. The Conservative incumbent was ousted and placed Mr. Wayne Stetski into the position.

Since then federal politics have changed. We have a progressive government in power and, blunders aside, the Liberals have been doing the job of restoring government, keeping the economy and debt in check, investing in infrastructure, addressing social issues like housing and childhood poverty, lowering taxes for the middle class and small businesses, and working on climate change solutions.

On the right we have a Conservative (CPC) party in the lead but splintered by Rick Stewart of the People’s Party, and a contentious CPC nominations process that saw a Vancouver RCMP brass parachuted into the region to take the nomination.

Rob Morrison’s claim of living and working in the Kootenay for the past 40 years is blatantly false. Many local voters are having a tough time swallowing that pill. Simply take a look at his LinkedIn page.

On the left we have Wayne Stetski our NDP incumbent whose party is, unfortunately, tanking in Canada, broke, and unlikely to retain half of their current seats. Close on his heels is Abra Brynne of the Green Party who has been stealing local NDP market share but belongs to the Green Party that has insufficient national support.

In the centre we have Robin Goldsbury arguably the strongest local candidate – the deepest roots, breadth of experience, smarts and practical ability – poised to come up the middle and take the riding in Kootenay-Columbia.

She’s the right candidate; the best qualified for the job; the one who will stand up for our Kootenay-Columbia. Her views on healthcare access and bringing more doctors to rural areas are far beyond her competition. As well, on the issue of the Columbia River Treaty dealings with our neighbours to the south; Robin Goldsbury is the only candidate with a perspective and a plan. It’s my belief that this issue is at the forefront of Kootenay policy, and truly ignored by incumbent Wayne Stetski.

The Liberals admit that they have more work to do, but also state how ready they are for another term as our government. Let’s hope they mean it because our national choice is more important than ever.

So this election, for me, strategic voting pragmatism prevails.  It’s my belief that the Liberals are going to hold a minority government. I’m voting for the person who will have a voice in government for our riding and will boldly represent our Kootenay Columbia in that government. The local voice of Robin Goldsbury is our own. I’m voting Liberal in Kootenay-Columbia.

Thank you so much for your time,

James Penson,

Kimberley

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