Kamloops MP hoping for authenticity from leadership candidates

KAMLOOPS — Tonight is the third and final debate in the Conservative Party’s leadership race. The only problem is two of the five candidates for the title of Leader of the Official Opposition have declined to participate. Perceived front-runner Pierre Poilievre as well as Leslyn Lewis have decided to remain on the campaign trail, incurring a $50,000 fine.

The three candidates that are taking part in the debate are former Quebec Premier Jean Charest, rural Ontario MP Scott Aitchison, and Roman Baber, a former Ontario legislator who Doug Ford booted from caucus for opposing COVID-19 lockdowns.

Despite lacking 40 per cent of the options, Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo MP Frank Caputo is looking forward to hearing what the candidates have to say.

“Anytime you get a chance to speak to voters, speak to people who are going to be listening, in this case members, that is always going to be something of value,” said Caputo ahead of the debate Wednesday evening.

Caputo will not be watching the debate for any one topic or discussion. He’s hoping to simply hear more from all the candidates about who they are.

“When we think about what we are hoping to hear, I just want to hear from every candidate who they are. Authenticity is something the Canadian electorate is hoping for. That’s all I want to hear from everybody on this campaign trail, whether or not they are in the debate. Let’s get to know people, let’s hear about who you are and what your ideas are,” added Caputo.

The Conservative party is scheduled to elect its new leader in September.