The Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce hosted an all-candidates forum ahead of the upcoming federal election.
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Several candidates, however, did not attend Wednesday night’s forum at the Lloydminster Exhibition.
Candidates from the Liberal Party, NDP, and Canadian Future Party attended.
Conservative incumbents, Shannon Stubbs and Rosemarie Falk, did not.
“The Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce is a non-partisan organization. All candidates running in the Battlefords–Lloydminster and Lakeland ridings were invited,” said Chamber Executive Director Teri-Lynn MacKie, explaining the Chamber regularly hosts forums at all levels of government.
“While some candidates chose not to attend, we encourage you to connect with them directly,” added MacKie.
Resident Darrell Dunn attended the Saskatchewan portion of the forum.
“I had heard the Conservative candidates might not show up. I was curious to see if they had the gall,” he said, noting the fact incumbents not showing disappointed him.
“The Saskatchewan candidates attending included the Liberals, NDP and the Canadian Future Party,” said Dunn. “But not our MP Rosemarie (Falk).”
He said the newer Canadian Future Party showed inexperience but appreciated their effort.
“They gave it their best shot … at least they were out there swinging,” he said.
Dunn watched the Alberta portion online after returning home.
“Only three of six running in the riding showed up,” he said.
“None of those three were Shannon Stubbs, our MP.”
He believes MPs should hear directly from their communities and questions political strategy in safe ridings.
“If the riding(s) is a historically ‘safe’ riding, then only spend money where it … provides a return,” he said.
He also shared views on the role of MPs in party politics, noting voters still deserve face-to-face contact with elected officials.
“In theory, an MP is supposed to represent the interests of their constituency,” said Dunn. “Why then can’t the incumbents be bothered to sit in front of voters and talk to us?” he asked.
He believes party leadership often controls communication.
“MPs and candidates are not even ‘allowed’ to speak outside of the script,” he said, noting this can lead to concerns about access and accountability.
“These two people have both a professional and ethical duty to show up,” he said. “I have heard from a number of candidates … but not them.”
Dunn also said he may cast a protest vote this election.
The Chamber said it remains committed to open forums and civic engagement. MacKie encouraged residents to reach out directly to candidates.
She said forums like their’s help voters make informed choices. Additionally, the Chamber will continue to provide these opportunities in future elections.
The full forums are available to watch on the Chamber of Commerce’s YouTube page.
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