Kootenay Monashee’s Choice: BC NDP’s Steve Morissette Wins Big in Election 2024

Election 2024: A New Chapter as Kootenay Monashee Chooses BC NDP Candidate

The latest electoral developments in the Kootenay Monashee District have culminated in a decisive victory for the BC NDP, with candidate Steve Morissette leading the charge. With polls now closed, Morissette, who currently serves as the mayor of Fruitvale, secured 52.8% of the votes as the results continue to filter in.

Unfolding Results

As the clock struck 8 p.m., the voting stations in the region closed their doors, marking the end of the voting period. Initial vote counts revealed a promising lead for the BC NDP, achieving 57.2% of the vote. This surpassed the 32% garnered by the opposing BC Conservative candidate, illustrating a strong preference among voters for the NDP’s policies and leadership within the district.

The Riding’s Legacy

Kootenay-Monashee has long been a stronghold for the NDP, a trend that began when the district was established under the name Kootenay West following the Electoral Districts Act of 2008. This district made its debut in the political arena during the 2009 general election. Although undergoing nominal and boundary modifications for the 2024 election cycle, this region consistently demonstrated support for the NDP, winning 12 of the last 13 elections. The historical voting patterns show a shift from the Social Credit party before the NDP’s notable win in 1972.

Key Candidates in Focus

• Steve Morissette: Running for the BC NDP, Morissette stands out not only as a political figure but as a longstanding mayor of Fruitvale. With a decade of leadership, his tenure has been marked by a focus on essential issues like housing and childcare. Under his stewardship, Fruitvale has made strides towards sustainability, pledging to shift to 100% renewable energy by 2050 through progressive wage policies and concrete action plans.
• Donovan Cavers: Representing the BC Green Party, Cavers has roots deeply planted in the community, having been raised on a multi-generational farm. Transitioning from successful business ventures in conscientious catering to influencing young minds as an elementary school teacher, Cavers has also served Kamloops as a city councillor. His active participation in local governance committees highlights his commitment to regional development.
• Glen Byle: As the face of the BC Conservative Party in the region, Byle brings a mix of technical expertise and community spirit. Employed at the Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital in medical equipment repair, his contributions extend beyond professional commitments. An avid weightlifter and long-distance runner, he invests in youth wellbeing through weekly fitness programs, engaging children in obstacle courses and recreational challenges.

With these developments, Kootenay Monashee’s political landscape is on the cusp of continuity and change, driven by long-standing allegiances and evolving priorities. As the district moves forward, the impact of this election promises to ripple through both local and provincial dynamics.