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Political Endorsements Heat Up in Kelowna Riding

Supporters gathered enthusiastically at Stephen Fuhr’s campaign office on Wednesday afternoon as a notable former premier of British Columbia publicly endorsed the Liberal candidate in Kelowna.

“Stephen has a proven track record of delivering results when he was your Member of Parliament,” stated Christy Clark, who served as premier from 2011 to 2017. She emphasized her confidence in Fuhr’s ability to advocate for the region’s interests in the capital.

Reflecting on past collaborations, Clark shared, “During my time representing West Kelowna, Fuhr played a crucial role in securing $25 million for a water treatment facility. Overall, he has successfully brought $185 million to our region.”

Fuhr is aiming for a significant political comeback in this competitive riding, which exhibits swing district characteristics following his election victory in 2015 within a territory long dominated by the Conservative Party.

In the 2019 elections, the Conservatives regained control of the seat through Tracy Gray’s victory.

“This election is surely one of the most critical of my lifetime,” Clark remarked, underscoring the stakes involved.

Clark is not alone in her political support, as another former premier endorsed a rival candidate on the same day.

Endorsements Fuel Election Dynamics

Gordon Campbell, who held the premiership from 2001 to 2011, threw his support behind Conservative candidate Tracy Gray. “I’ve seen Tracy grow in her role over the last six years, and she has been a consistent advocate for our community,” he told Global News.

After announcing his endorsement in a press release, Campbell praised Gray’s entrepreneurial background and commitment to economic strength. “Her dedication to a thriving energy sector highlights her focus on long-term growth for Kelowna,” he added.

This unfolding situation has not gone unnoticed by local NDP candidate Trevor McAleese, who expressed confidence in his grassroots movement.

“I rely on a campaign driven by the community,” McAleese stated, suggesting that such high-profile endorsements may not resonate positively with voters. He expressed concern that voters may feel compelled to support Fuhr as a tactical move against the Conservatives, potentially alienating long-time NDP supporters.

Both Clark and Campbell acknowledged their expectations of each other’s endorsements. “Clark’s support for Fuhr doesn’t surprise me; she has always been aligned with the Liberal ideology,” Campbell noted. “As for her prior thoughts about leading the Liberal party, that’s part of the political landscape.” McAleese pointed out that Campbell’s alignment with the Conservatives aligns with historical patterns in BC’s political affiliations.

The Green Party candidate, Catriona Wright, had not provided a response before publication.

Source
globalnews.ca