All-candidates debate cancelled in North Island-Powell River riding
Organizers of an all-candidates debate in Campbell River, B.C. made a last-minute decision to cancel the event on Tuesday, citing safety concerns due to planned protest rallies at the venue. The debate was set to feature Conservative candidate Aaron Gunn, Green candidate Jessica Wegg, NDP candidate Tanille Johnston, Liberal candidate Jennifer Lash, People’s Party candidate Paul MacKnight, and Independent candidate Glen Staples.
Just an hour and a half before the scheduled start time at the Tidemark Theatre in Campbell River, the Campbell River Chamber of Commerce, who organized the event, released a statement announcing the cancellation. While the chamber did not provide any further details or respond to interview requests, candidates confirmed that the decision was made in light of potential safety risks posed by planned protests and counter-protests.
Despite the cancellation, the NDP, Liberal, and Green candidates decided to hold an impromptu event outside the theatre to engage with voters and discuss important issues. Wegg emphasized that affordability and housing were top concerns in the riding, stressing the importance of debates in preventing political polarization. Lash expressed disappointment over the cancellation, highlighting her intention to address issues like salmon farms and the need for a proper transition package.
Meanwhile, Staples focused on Canada’s party and electoral system as his primary concern. Outside the theatre, a small demonstration took place with around 20 First Nations Elders protesting Gunn, who had faced criticism for past tweets denying the severity of the residential school system. Gunn’s campaign spokesperson clarified that he recognized the horrific events of residential schools and that any suggestion otherwise was false.
While Gunn expressed disappointment over the debate cancellation, he remained determined to continue his campaign efforts. Johnston of the NDP emphasized the need to focus on important initiatives like growing the economy, expanding healthcare, and implementing affordable childcare programs, rather than getting caught up in social media controversies.
Despite the cancellation, candidates expressed their commitment to engaging with voters and addressing key issues facing the community. The debate may have been called off, but the candidates remained steadfast in their dedication to serving the interests of North Island-Powell River constituents.
