Tell our readers a little bit about yourself and why you are qualified to serve as MP.
I was born in Chatham and chose to raise my family in Leamington. I’m a proud business owner and community advocate dedicated to building up the place I call home.
As the founder of a number of businesses, I have decades of experience in manufacturing, distribution and trucking and I know first-hand the challenges being shaped by the cross-border trade dispute with the United States.
This area is best represented by a member of the government, not a critic in opposition – we have been absent of a strong advocate in Ottawa for far too long.
What is the most pressing issue facing Chatham-Kent right now?
Chatham-Kent–Leamington is the front lines of the trade war and we need a leader who is best suited to dealing with the U.S. president and supporting workers during this uncertain time. Mark Carney has already committed to support programs that are targeted towards industries and workers most affected by the tariffs imposed on Canada. Pierre Poilievre hasn’t. Instead, we’ve gotten slogans but so far there has been no commitment to anything specific that would actually help workers in our area.
Any other issues of note?
The cost of living is also a crucial issue for people in our riding and a Mark Carney government has already made it easier for Canadians to weather uncertain times by putting more money in their pockets. By cancelling the “carbon tax,” we have already lowered the price of gas by an average of 18 cents per litre and are delivering on middle class tax cuts that will save families hundreds of dollars a month.
How can the federal government better address the homeless issue in C-K?
Large-scale affordable and supportive housing initiatives as well as expanding the National Housing Strategy are important initiatives that will be a priority during a Mark Carney government. It’s also vital that we address the root causes of that lead to homelessness such as income inequality and better safety nets for our most vulnerable.
If elected, what will you do to best represent your constituents?
The last government did not do a good enough job of listening to the public, particularly on the carbon tax. I believe this area needs to have an MP who is a member of government, not a critic in opposition. By electing a member of the government, constituents will have an advocate with a clear path to those that serve as key decision makers in government.
