New Democratic Party members in Similkameen-South Okanagan-West Kootenay have selected the candidate to represent them in the next federal election.

In a local candidate race with four experienced nominees, Linda Sankey of Penticton was chosen.

鈥淚 am honoured that our longtime members have placed their trust in me to carry the amazing work on our MP Richard Cannings forward,鈥� Sankey said. 

鈥淥ur communities are facing some serious challenges and need an advocate that understands what they are facing. I am ready to bring my 30 years of experience to Ottawa to ensure our government is making decisions that reflect the needs of our unique region.鈥�

Sankey has worked with local and provincial governments in the South Okanagan.

She has been involved with the City of Penticton Housing Task Force and is co-chair of the 100 More Homes Penticton Collaborative that has been a key actor in the success of the temporary winter shelter. The housing collaborative worked to connect 65 individuals to life-saving services. 

Sankey has worked with BC Housing and is currently the executive director of the South Okanagan Similkameen Brain Injury Society, where she manages multiple housing projects, large capital projects and complex relationships at all levels of government. 

She also served on the Penticton Chamber of Commerce where she was a voice for local business owners. 

鈥淚ndustries in our region are struggling and with new threats from our southern neighbours, we need someone who has the trust and confidence of business,鈥� she said. 鈥淔amilies, seniors, and young professionals need to be able to thrive in our region.鈥�

Sankey will replace NDP incumbent Richard Cannings on the ballot. Cannings won the riding in the past three elections.

鈥淟inda Sankey is a powerful voice that has led our community on important issues like housing, health-care access, affordability, small business support, community safety, food security, and climate change readiness. We need to do everything possible to stop Conservatives and their agenda to gut the services we rely upon," Cannings said.

鈥淚鈥檓 thrilled to have Linda joining the NDP team,鈥� Canada鈥檚 NDP leader Jagmeet Singh said. 鈥淪he鈥檚 spent her life in Similkameen-South Okanagan-West Kootenay and knows the people and needs of her community."