Eight candidates are vying for votes in the Essex riding, with a focus on healthcare and affordability as pivotal election issues. Let’s take a look at the candidates running in alphabetical order:
Brigitte Belton, representing the New Blue Party, is a resident of Wallaceburg and a truck driver. Belton emphasizes her work ethic and commitment to accessibility, advocating for tackling affordability challenges and ensuring access to family doctors. She aims to rehire healthcare professionals impacted by COVID-19 vaccine mandates.
Stephen Higgins, from the Green Party of Ontario, is a lifelong Kingsville resident and entrepreneur. Higgins emphasizes the importance of being an independent voice representing the riding, prioritizing healthcare, especially mental healthcare, and education investments for the future.
Travis Jacques, running for the Ontario Party, focuses on defending freedom, family, and faith, although an interview was not possible to obtain.
Incumbent Anthony Leardi, representing the PC Party of Ontario, was first elected in 2022. Leardi, a lawyer and former deputy mayor, highlights the party’s stance on tariffs and endorsements from unions, emphasizing the protection of the energy sector.
Kevin Linfield, from the None of the Above Direct Democracy Party, is an aerospace engineer advocating for addressing the housing shortage by promoting diverse housing options. Linfield encourages voter turnout regardless of party affiliation.
Rachael Mills, the Ontario NDP candidate, is a community activist with a background in healthcare and customer service. Mills prioritizes improving healthcare and affordable housing while emphasizing sustainable land use planning.
Tamara Stomp, representing the Ontario Liberal Party, is a lawyer from Kingsville with a history in municipal politics. Stomp’s priorities include housing, education, and healthcare reforms, highlighting the need for increased medical training opportunities.
William Szabo Verzoc, an Independent candidate, advocates for individuals to run independently to contribute to the election process. Verzoc, a disability rights advocate living with Crohn’s disease, prioritizes healthcare improvements, including expanding medical school placements and supporting Canadians who studied abroad.
Each candidate brings a unique perspective and set of priorities to the table, aiming to address the pressing issues facing the Essex riding.
