Marianne Alto’s statement on the decision to call a general Provincial election

VICTORIA, B.C.- Marianne Alto, candidate for re-election as mayor of Victoria, has issued the following statement in response to the Premier’s decision to call a general provincial election:

“Today, David Eby asked the Lieutenant Governor to issue writs of election for a general election, to occur on October 24. This is seven days after the municipal general election.

“I am disappointed in this decision. Across British Columbia, thousands of mayoral, council, regional district director, and school board candidates are campaigning and working hard to earn votes. Campaigns are powered by volunteers and donors, and thousands of hours are poured into this work, in the interest of democracy. Having another election occur at the same time, for a different order of government, reduces candidates’ ability to share our messages and be heard. It can confuse voters, stoke disenfranchisement, and draws heavily on local resources that are already limited.

“Most importantly, overlapping provincial and municipal campaigns distracts voters from local candidates, and local issues. It undermines the importance of local government.

“Just last week, the Union of BC Municipalities made a clear and resounding statement opposing a Provincial election during a local election period. Local governments have fixed election dates, partly to prevent overlap with Provincial general elections. These fixed dates offer security and predictability in our political system.

“I understand that the Premier believes he needs a renewed electoral mandate from the public to continue his work to advance economic stability and oppose Donald Trump. I respect his decision and authority to call an election, but remain frustrated.

“I urge residents to stay tuned in on local candidates and their platforms, and to make a plan to vote at an advanced poll, or at a general poll on October 17. I commit to Victoria voters that I will continue to work hard to earn their vote, as I have done each day as mayor.”

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