By Kelsey Bent, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Listowel Banner
OTTAWA – Governor General Mary Simon at the recommendation of Prime Minister Mark Carney, issued a proclamation to dissolve the 44th Parliament on March 23, 2025. This action triggered a federal election, set to take place on April 28.
In the riding of Perth-Wellington, Conservative Party of Canada candidate, sitting MP John Nater, has served the riding for three terms since 2015.
Nater holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Affairs and Policy Management (BPAPM) from Carleton University and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration (MPA) from Queen’s University. Nater and his wife Justine live in Mitchell with their three children.
David Mackey recently announced his candidacy for the Federal Perth-Wellington Liberal Association.
Mackey has family roots tied to farming in Ontario while his own career in high-tech includes years in customer service support, solving complex problems and meeting the needs of businesses. Mackey is also active in Ontario’s public library system, both as a board member of the Stratford Public Library and at the provincial level.
Wayne Baker is the candidate for the People’s Party of Canada in the electoral district of Perth Wellington. Baker was raised on a dairy farm in Flesherton and now resides in Arthur with his wife Marilyn. He has a background in real estate and currently is self-employed as a small business owner.
In the riding of Huron-Bruce, Conservative Party of Canada candidate MP Ben Lobb was first elected to the House of Commons in 2008. He was re-elected in 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2021.
Lobb served as the Shadow Minister for Digital Government in his last term. He hosts two annual minor baseball camps for youth in Huron-Bruce, in Clinton and Kincardine.
Melanie Burrett was named NDP candidate for Huron-Bruce. Burrett is a school librarian, OSSTF ESS member, and longtime NDP volunteer. She lives in Egmondville with her husband and daughter.
James Rice was acclaimed as the Liberal Party of Canada candidate for Huron Bruce on Feb. 18. Rice, a Wingham resident was a candidate for the party in the 2021 federal election.
Elections Canada indicates the nomination process for candidates closes on April 7 and a list of confirmed candidates will be available on April 9.