Central Nova candidates covering a lot of ground to reach voters in far-reaching riding
In the federal riding of Central Nova in Nova Scotia, Liberal candidate Sean Fraser is gearing up for a tough election campaign despite his previous electoral wins. He acknowledges that historically, Central Nova has been a Conservative stronghold, with former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney choosing to run there in the past.
Over the years, the demographics of Central Nova have shifted, with the Halifax Regional Municipality growing in population while rural areas see a decline. This has resulted in the riding covering a larger geographical area, making it challenging for candidates to reach voters.
Political science professor Jim Bickerton predicts that the municipality will continue to absorb more of the province’s ridings, leading to larger and more diverse constituencies. This poses a challenge for candidates like NDP’s Jesiah MacDonald, who is working hard to connect with voters despite limited resources.
MacDonald, a transgender janitor and former bakery owner, is open about his personal journey and experiences with the community. He acknowledges the uphill battle he faces against incumbent Fraser but remains optimistic about his chances.
On the other side of the political spectrum, Conservative candidate Brycen Jenkins is focusing on affordability as a key issue in his campaign. Born and raised in Pictou County, Jenkins has a background in welding and real estate. He aims to address the concerns of young people struggling to afford homes and seniors facing financial challenges.
The campaign in Central Nova has also seen high-profile support, with former MP Peter MacKay endorsing Jenkins and emphasizing the need for change in the riding. The presence of candidates like Jenkins and MacDonald adds diversity to the race, with other contenders representing the People’s Party of Canada, the Greens, and running as an Independent.
As the election unfolds, candidates are hearing from voters who are increasingly engaged and concerned about issues like affordability, housing, and utilities. The shadow of American President Donald Trump looms large over the campaign, prompting discussions about Canada’s relationship with the United States.
Overall, the race in Central Nova is shaping up to be competitive and dynamic, with candidates working hard to connect with voters and address their concerns. The diversity of perspectives and backgrounds among the candidates reflects the evolving political landscape in Nova Scotia.
