Prince George-Cariboo MLA Coralee Oakes will seek re-election as an independent.
Oakes was one of the BC United incumbents left stranded when Kevin Falcon, the party's leader, abruptly called off the campaign after meeting with BC Conservatives Leader John Rustad.
While a handful of former BC United candidates shifted over to run for the Conservatives, Oakes was not one of them. The Conservatives have Sheldon Clare running in that riding.
"Following the suspension of the BC United campaign, I’ve been listening closely to the concerns of my constituents, and the message is clear — many feel abandoned, with fewer options to represent their values," Oakes said in a press release.
"That’s why I’ve made the decision to remain on the ballot as an Independent candidate. My loyalty has always been to the people of this region, and that will never change."
She said her status as an independent, if re-elected, won't slow her down.
"As an independent MLA, I’ll be in a strong position to push for the priorities that matter to our region. Whether it’s ensuring better roads and infrastructure, supporting our natural resource sector, or advocating for better healthcare and mental health services, I’ll continue to fight for the people of Prince George-North Cariboo," she said in the release.
Oakes was first elected as a BC Liberal in 2013 after serving two terms on Quesnel city council. She served, at different times, as minister of community, sport and cultural development, minister of small business and red tape reduction and minister responsible for the liquor distribution branch in the Christy Clark government.
After the NDP took power, she became the Official Opposition critic for small business, for advanced education, skills training and sport, and for post-secondary education.
In addition to Oakes and Clare, Randy Thompson will be on the ballot for the BC Green Party.
Election Day is Oct. 19.
