The BC United Party’s sudden campaign suspension was just as much of a surprise to some of its own party members as it was for the general public.
BC United’s Prince-George Mackenzie Candidate, Kiel Giddens, entered the race in late September of 2023, hopeful to fill current BC United MLA Mike Morris’ spot in the legislature after his retirement.
Now, he is not sure if he is in the race at all.
“Today came as quite a surprise,” he told My PG Now. “I have been out in the riding meeting with hundreds and hundreds of voters.”
“I don’t know what today’s announcement means for my campaign or my future. It is not clear,” he said.
Giddens said he was given no advanced notice this was coming and was out of cell service when rumours of the campaign suspension started to circulate.
When asked if he would consider taking his campaign and moving to the Conservatives or another provincial party, Giddens said it was too soon to say.
“I don’t know what I am going to do at this point, or if there are any decisions to be made going forward,” he said. “Lots to sort out. I need to talk to the party in detail, my campaign team locally, and of course my family.”
As all BC United nominations are withdrawn, the BC Conservatives say they will be able to recruit “from BC United’s pool of incredible incumbent MLAs and candidates,” however, the Conservative party has Rachael Weber running as a candidate in the Prince George-Mackenzie riding already.
Regardless, Giddens said he has appreciated his experience as a candidate so far, even if this is where it might end.
“I’ve met thousands of people at this point. I have found it energizing, had some fantastic conversations on doorsteps and am proud of what I have done to put myself out there so far.”
The provincial election will be held on October 19th.
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