Last Saturday (Oct. 18), members of the federal NDP Riding Association for South Okanagan – West Kootenay (SOWK) came together and, along with hundreds of others who voted by mail-in or online balloting, chose Richard (Dick) Cannings as their candidate in the 2015 federal election.
Born and raised in Penticton, Cannings’ books and radio appearances have made his name a familiar one throughout British Columbia.
“A brilliant mind, Dick’s commitment to his community and the environment are indisputable,” said NDP Leader Tom Mulcair. “Alex is leaving some big shoes to fill but there’s no question the people in this riding will be extremely well served by Dick Cannings.”
SO-WK is a new riding, the bulk of which falls within the riding currently represented NDP MP Alex Atamanenko. Known for his hard work, honesty, and integrity, Atamanenko—who chose to not run for a fourth term—offered his congratulations to Cannings and committed to working with him in the lead up to the election.
Margaret Maximenko, who was also seeking the nomination, moved to make the vote unanimous and joined Cannings in praising the way both campaigns were run throughout the nomination.
“I’m humbled to be nominated and excited to be part of the Tom Mulcair’s team, offering Canadians a real alternative to the Harper Conservatives in the 2015 election,” Cannings said. “I look forward to taking the campaign throughout the riding over the months to come.”