Candidates in the upcoming Haldimand Norfolk election shared their visions during opening statements of last night’s debate hosted by the Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce. Each candidate presented their priorities, hoping to win voter support.
Independent and incumbent candidate Bobby Ann Brady emphasized their 25 years of experience and strong relationships with other MPPs.
She criticized developers, special interests, and corporate greed, claiming these influences are harming Ontario. Brady also pointed to the $185 million election as unnecessary and called tariffs a distraction from the real issues. While also reminding voters that Premier Doug Ford remains under RCMP investigation for the Greenbelt scandal.
Brady also addressed recent attacks from municipal politicians as attempts to silence her. One thing that could not be silenced was Brady’s supporters, who were asked numerous times by moderators not to heckle or applaud as they attempted to bully the room.
Anna Massinen, the Green Party candidate focused on affordability and sustainable growth. She opposed urban sprawl in Norfolk County, favouring increasing the county’s density in urban areas. Massinen highlighted the importance of supporting local small businesses. She criticized government spending on Greenbelt highways and luxury spas and failing the vulnerable.
Massinen called for a government that prioritizes the needs of the people rather than developers.
NDP candidate Erica Englert, a 19-year-old student, acknowledged she does not look like a typical politician but urged voters to listen to her message. She criticized the Ford government’s budget cuts, especially in rural areas, and stressed the importance of grassroots organizing. Englert promised to advocate for Haldimand-Norfolk.
She closed her opening remarks by emphasizing the need to reinvest in essential services.
Progressive Conservative candidate Amy Martin called this election one of the most important in recent memory. She quickly pointed to the uncertainty caused by U.S. tariffs and stressed the need for a stable government to protect local industries like steel and agriculture. As the Mayor of Norfolk County, Martin highlighted her collaboration with the Ford Government.
She argued that Haldimand-Norfolk needs a representative within the next provincial government to ensure its priorities are met.
Finally, Liberal candidate Vandan Patel spoke about his deep connection to agriculture, emphasizing his family’s farming background. He pledged to support economic growth and local farmers. Patel also highlighted his public service experience, including his role as a board director for the Liberal Party of Canada and secretary of Branch 122 of the Royal Canadian Legion in Galt. He added family is his greatest concern.
Patel thinks the best future for the next generation would come under Bonnie Crombie’s leadership.
Garry Tanchak of the New Blue Party sent his apologies that he was unable to attend the debate.
With a diverse group of candidates presenting their platforms, voters in Haldimand Norfolk have important choices to make as the election approaches.
Written by Jeremy Hall