Linda Sankey chosen to replace Richard Cannings in upcomin election

In a local candidate race that included four experienced nominees, Linda Sankey of Penticton, BC  has been chosen by party members that cast their votes this past weekend.

“I am honoured that our longtime members have placed their trust in me to carry the amazing work on our MP Richard Cannings forward,” shared Sankey. “Our communities are facing some serious challenges and need an advocate that understands what they are facing. I am ready to bring my 30 years of experience to Ottawa to ensure our government is making decisions that reflect the needs of our unique region.”

Sankey has long been a respected leader in the South Okanagan working with both local and provincial governments. She has been heavily involved with the City of Penticton Housing Task Force and is Co-Chair of the 100 More Homes Penticton Collaborative that has been a key actor in the success of the temporary winter shelter that made real inroads in connecting 65 individuals to life-saving services.

Sankey has worked with BC Housing and is currently the Executive Director of the South Okanagan Similkameen Brain Injury Society where she manages multiple housing projects, large capital projects and complex relationships at all levels of government. Sankey also recently served on the Penticton Chamber of Commerce where she has been a strong voice for local business owners.

“Industries in our region are struggling and with new threats from our southern neighbours, we need someone who has the trust and confidence of business, I am that person. Families, seniors, and young professionals need to be able to thrive in our region. To achieve that the federal government needs to do its part” said Sankey.

Sankey will run in the place of NDP incumbent Richard Cannings who has won the riding in the past three elections. “Linda Sankey is a powerful voice that has led our community on important issues like housing, healthcare access, affordability, small business support, community safety, food security, and climate change readiness. We need to do everything possible to stop Conservatives and their agenda to gut the services we rely upon. Linda Sankey is the only one that can do that in Similkameen – South Okanagan – West Kootenay,” said Cannings.

“I’m thrilled to have Linda joining the NDP team,” said Canada’s NDP leader Jagmeet Singh. “She’s spent her life in Similkameen – South Okanagan – West Kootenay and knows the people and needs of her community.”

“Times are tough, costs are sky-high, and now we’re facing threats from Donald Trump. Hardworking people need someone in their corner who’s fighting for them, not Conservatives who will cut to give more to billionaires. Linda is on your side.”

The Similkameen – South Okanagan – West Kootenay riding has shifted with the recent Elections Canada redistribution but will likely remain a tight race between the NDP and the Conservatives. Liberal candidates have not been competitive in the riding in over a half century.