As election day nears, Gladu’s absence sparks conversation while rivals share bold visions at Rotary-hosted forum
With less than a month until election day, the political stage in Sarnia-Lambton-Bkejwanong was missing a familiar face Tuesday evening. Conservative MP Marilyn Gladu, who has represented the region since 2015, opted out of an all-candidates forum hosted by the Rotary Club of Sarnia, citing scheduling demands tied to riding redistribution.
The meeting, attended by approximately 60 local voters and six other candidates, provided a platform for spirited discussion — but Gladu’s absence didn’t go unnoticed.
“I would have loved to have Marilyn here,” said Rotary Club President Jamie Pole. “I think everyone would have liked to hear from her.”
Why Gladu Wasn’t There
In a message to organizers, Gladu explained that her campaign is focused on connecting with new constituents added through the recent riding redistribution, which she says has doubled the geographical area and added 20,000 new residents.
“We have to focus on trying to get to know the new part of the riding,” she told media following the event.
Gladu noted she plans to attend several upcoming forums, including:
- Lambton Federation of Agriculture event in Wyoming (Wednesday)
- Chamber of Commerce debate next week
- All-candidates meeting in Petrolia later this month
“I’ve done 25 debates in the last three campaigns,” Gladu added. “Everybody knows what I think on nearly every issue there is.”
Candidates Share Contrasting Visions
Despite her absence, the conversation on Tuesday evening was robust and reflective of the diverse political spectrum.
Liberal Candidate George Vandenberg
Struck a unifying tone:
“Canada is not broken. And we will not be broken. We must work together and act on our core values.”
Libertarian Candidate Jacques Boudreau
Criticized overregulation:
“We’re drowning in red tape. Liberal policies have tanked the economy with Soviet-style planning and climate extremism.”
PPC Candidate Brian Everaert
Pushed for industry-first policy:
“We need jobs, not handouts. Let’s invest in petrochemicals, not regulation.”
Christian Heritage Candidate Mark Lamore
Emphasized accountability and faith:
“We’ve had 100 elections, but no change. Until we look seriously at governance, nothing improves.”
Rhinoceros Party Candidate Anthony Mitchell
Highlighted voter apathy:
“Not voting isn’t rebellion — it’s indifference. And it tells government you’re not paying attention.”
NDP Candidate Lo-Anne Chan
Pitched a people-first vision:
“We want to be seen and valued. The NDP will always fight for a government that cares for its people.”
What’s Next?
With election day set for April 28, candidates are entering the final leg of their campaigns. As the riding’s dynamics shift with redistribution, voters are eager to hear directly from those seeking to represent them.
Whether Gladu’s strategy of prioritizing new voters will resonate — or whether her absence at local forums will cost her — remains to be seen.
