Photo courtesy Canadian Press

By Matt Fetinko

What a provincial debate can do for local candidates

Oct 14, 2020 | 3:30 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — Tuesday’s debate was the best chance so far for voters to get a look at who the next Premier of BC could be. But while the party leaders were able to get their two cents in, it may not have had that much of an effect on who voters in local ridings will back. Chris Beach said at best, the strong performance of Green Leader Sonia Furstenau could result in more votes for the Greens but not necessarily more seats.

We asked local candidates, all of the Prince George-Valemount riding, of the BC NDP, Liberal, and Green Parties their thoughts on the debate and what it could mean for their chances come October 24.

Liberal candidate Shirley Bond said in her experience, the performance of party leaders generally will not sway voters because they typically will vote for the local candidate who will do more for them rather than the leader. “Local constituents want an MLA who will work hard on their behalf and so a lot of people pay attention to the name on the ballot locally,” she explained.

Spruce Kings fall in Langley to Rivermen

22h ago

Sexual Assault and Harassment

Judge to rule on Canada Post employee's sexual assault and harassment case

Dec 13, 2025

Weather Alerts

Freezing rain warning issued for Prince George-area, snowfall warning remains for Williston, Pine Pass

Dec 13, 2025

Meanwhile, the youthful duo of Green candidate Mackenzie Kerr and NDP candidate Laura Parent feel a strong performance can make a difference. Kerr said off the back of Furstenau’s showing, “I think the leader shows the attitude of the party.” Agreeing in principle was Parent, who said, “I hope the public was watching, listening, and engaging. The better leaders we have, just like our candidates, the better the outcomes will be.”

Overall, Beach said there was no real standout winner or loser during Tuesday’s debate.