Maxime Bernier’s People’s Party of Canada (PPC) has nominated Campbell River resident and businessman Peter Marcin as its candidate for the North Island-Powell River riding.
The party’s recently-established riding association issued a press statement that said Marcin “brings excellent leadership qualities to our riding and party.”
In an interview with the Peak, Marcin said he has no prior political experience or affiliation.
“Certain things have been happening in Canada that I thought someone needs to stand up and have a voice,” he said. “That’s one of the things that motivated me.”
Marcin said he strongly believes in individual freedom, personal responsibility, and fairness and respect.
“It’s making me nervous sometimes that in Canada people are chipping away at free speech,” he said. “We’re all entitled to our opinion even if no one else agrees with it.”
As a travelling businessman, Marcin noted he frequently visits Vancouver, and is concerned by the levels of homelessness he sees there and elsewhere. The PPC candidate believes lower taxes and restrictions on immigration are the best solutions to inequality and unaffordable housing.
“We’re pro-immigration; we just need it fair and sensible,” he said. “A lot of the housing crisis is caused by too many people coming to Canada too quickly.”
Marcin described the PPC as representing the “silent majority,” and said his party is trying to appeal to voters from all major parties.
“We’re giving people in Canada a good choice, and we think we’re the best choice,” he said.
North Island-Powell River PPC riding association president Steven Lohrenz described his party’s candidate as a charismatic leader who inspires those around him to do their best.
“The most refreshing thing folks are going to see in Peter this summer is his unending passion for people,” said Lohrenz. “He sincerely enjoys engaging them and learning about their lives and the challenges they face.”
Noting that smaller parties typically face communication challenges during elections, Lohrenz said his party will focus on getting its messaging for a stronger Canada across to voters in the riding.
“The strength of the People's Party of Canada is that it is founded exclusively and only on principles that unite us all,” he said, “and speaks to issues that matter to every Canadian.”
