The race for the Kelowna riding in the upcoming federal election is heating up, with former B.C. premier Christy Clark endorsing Liberal candidate Stephen Fuhr. Clark praised Fuhr for his past achievements in securing funding for infrastructure projects in the region, stating that he is the best person to represent Kelowna’s interests in Ottawa. Fuhr, who previously won the riding in 2015 but lost in 2019, is looking to make a political comeback in what is considered a swing riding that has traditionally been a Conservative stronghold.
On the same day, former B.C. premier Gordon Campbell announced his endorsement of Conservative candidate Tracy Gray. Campbell praised Gray’s advocacy for Kelowna over the past six years and described her as a strong advocate for small businesses and a thriving economy. The endorsements by both former premiers indicate the high stakes of the upcoming election in Kelowna, with both parties vying for support in a competitive race.
The endorsements of Fuhr by Clark and Gray by Campbell have not surprised local NDP candidate Trevor McAleese, who is running his campaign based on grassroots support rather than high-profile endorsements. McAleese expressed concern that endorsements from former premieres could pressure voters to vote against their conscience in an effort to defeat their opponents. He believes that an endorsement like Clark’s on Fuhr could potentially alienate long-time NDP supporters and deter them from shifting their support.
Both Clark and Campbell expressed their lack of surprise at each other’s opposing endorsements, with Clark identifying herself as a Liberal and Campbell acknowledging Clark’s past interest in running for leadership within the Liberal party. They both acknowledged the strategic nature of endorsements in political campaigns and the tendency for former politicians to align with their respective parties. The Green candidate, Catriona Wright, did not respond to the endorsements by publication time, leaving her position on the endorsements unclear.
Overall, the endorsements of Fuhr by Clark and Gray by Campbell highlight the fierce competition in the Kelowna riding ahead of the upcoming election. With a history of changing political dynamics and a history of swing wins, the race is expected to be closely contested. The endorsements by former premiers add another layer of influence to the campaign, with each party hoping to secure key endorsements to bolster their chances of success. Ultimately, the voters in Kelowna will have the final say in determining who will represent their interests in Ottawa.
