Yukon’s territorial election campaign is set to kick off this Friday, as announced by Premier Mike Pemberton. Pemberton revealed plans to request Yukon Commissioner Adeline Webber to dissolve the legislative assembly and schedule the territorial election for Nov. 3 during an event in Carcross. Notably, Pemberton’s Liberals are aiming for a third mandate with a predominantly new slate of candidates, as most of the current party MLAs have opted not to seek reelection. This election marks Pemberton’s debut campaign since assuming leadership earlier this year.
Emphasizing a focus on rural concerns, Pemberton stated that Carcross was chosen as the election announcement venue to underscore a dedication to addressing rural issues. The Liberal platform centers on pivotal issues such as housing, accessible healthcare, affordability, the economy, and reconciliation. Additionally, health care emerged as a focal point for all parties, with NDP Leader Kate White highlighting it as a critical election issue, while Yukon Party Leader Currie Dixon campaigned under the theme of “change.”
The upcoming election marks a significant shift in electoral districts following population growth, with the inclusion of two new members representing the Whitehorse ridings of Whistle Bend North and Whistle Bend South. Furthermore, several other electoral districts have undergone modifications, including the dissolution of the Pelly-Nisutlin district and the redistribution of communities like Ross River, Faro, and Teslin.
Notably, none of Yukon’s current Liberal cabinet ministers are seeking reelection, signaling a notable shift in leadership dynamics. Since 2021, the Liberals have maintained a minority government supported by the Confidence and Supply Agreement (CASA) with the Yukon NDP. The upcoming election also coincides with a plebiscite on electoral reform to evaluate support for transitioning to a ranked ballot system, as recommended by the citizen’s assembly on electoral reform last year. Voters will have the opportunity to cast their ballots on Nov. 3, both for the territorial election and the electoral reform plebiscite.
