WATCH: The premier and the leader of the opposition are in Nanaimo campaigning ahead of Wednesday’s crucial by-election. The outcome could have an impact on the balance of power in the legislature so there is no letting up for any of the candidates heading into the home stretch. Kendall Hanson reports.
Four a fourth straight day, there was heavy traffic at Nanaimo’s two advance voting locations.
Elections BC reports more than nine per cent of eligible voters has already cast their ballot and candidates know time is running out to convince those still undecided.
On Friday, they were getting help from party leaders
Premier Horgan joined the NDP candidate to promote their housing affordability strategy, an issue Sheila Malcolmson feels is the key to victory.
“The housing crisis is the number one issue that we’re hearing on the door and that’s what we’re hearing confirmed around the table today,” said Malcolmson.
“That’s why it’s so important that we address the increased costs,” said Premier John Horgan. “That’s why we put in place 30 point plans to address housing here in Nanaimo.”
Not far away, the BC Liberals held a caucus meeting.
Leader Andrew Wilkinson says transportation, health and education are the big issues as they try and shore up support for their candidate Tony Harris.
“Tomorrow we’ll be out in the field talking to people all over Nanaimo,” said Wilkinson. “I’ve been door knocking three weekends already and there’s a great reception for Tony. He’s well known in the community and people like him.
The BC Green Leader was in Nanaimo Wednesday and will be back on the weekend.
Candidate Michele Ney says despite the greens getting 20 per cent of the riding’s vote in the last election she believes she can win.
“The second reason is because of my contributions to the community, the number of people that know me and believe in me,” said Ney.
Advance voting continues through the weekend ahead of election day on Wednesday.
Kendall Hanson
