Yorkton This Week sent a list of ten questions to each of the five candidates running in the Yorkton-Melville riding in the 2019 Federal Election. Every day for ten days, we will post their answers. Yorkton-Melville heads to the polls on Oct. 21.
As MP will you vote with your party all the time, or do you see situations where may break with your party to vote for what your constituents want?
Connor Moen, Liberal Party:
The role of a Member of Parliament is to represent the interest of your constituents, and I think that is really crucial for them and their constituents to understand. I believe Minister Ralph Goodale summed it up pretty well when he said "Voters always ultimately have the final decision. Never assume you're entitled to a vote. Go over there and earn it." Ultimately, being a competent and principled Member of Parliament will be remembered more than a news headline one week.
Ryan Schultz, People's Party of Canada:
Ryan joined the People’s Party of Canada because the platform aligns with his values. He foresees very few instances where he would need to break from voting with the party. Freedom is the core value of the PPC. Including Freedom of Speech and debate. Our leader Maxime Bernier has stated that fair and open debate on contentious issues will be permitted.
An example of a case where Ryan may break from the party would be on rural issues. More precisely on the topic of Postal Service in rural communities. Ryan would vote against shutting down small town post offices.
Cathay Wagantall, Conservative Party:
We have very robust debates in our caucus on any and all issues. As the only party that has a diversity of perspectives on many issues, I’m really proud of how we work together. I’m also proud of the freedom we have to vote our own conscience and to reflect our constituents’ views wherever possible. The feedback I have received in the past from constituents has been so valuable – often also representing differing viewpoints.
Stacey Wiebe, Green Party:
The Green Party does not whip its votes, so I will be able to vote as the constituents want.
Carter Antoine, New Democratic Party:
I believe strongly that the NDP platform will deliver the best deal for Canadian families and so I do not foresee any situation where I would want to vote against the Party line. However, my values and the needs of my constituents will always come first regardless of what the repercussions may be.
