Catch 22 recommends Randall Garrison

Thanks to everyone for your patience and participation in the online discussions. After reviewing the discussions and receiving input from other campaigners working on the ground, we have concluded that Randall Garrison, candidate for the New Democratic Party is in the best position to keep this riding out of the hands of the Conservatives.

This was a tough call. We based this decision on a number of factors including:

Garrison's high profile in the riding as a local councilor
Garrison ran second against Keith Martin in two of the last three elections
strong performance at all candidate meetings
the suggestion that with Keith Martin retired, the riding will return to its more typical "left/right" dynamics resulting in more room for growth for the NDP than the Liberal candidate
active campaigners from Conservation Voters of BC working on the ground in support of Garrison's candidacy

The Catch 22 team

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Oona Hayes on April 25, 2011 at 11:38am

Glad I held off voting early. I will vote NDP, following this recommendation.

Permalink Reply by Oona Hayes on April 25, 2011 at 6:33pm

Yes, thank you, Catch22.

Permalink Reply by TBone on April 25, 2011 at 6:53pm

Totally. It's really bothering me to see some of these "don't split the vote" sites saying people should vote Liberal here. While I admire Lillian and think she would do a good job as our MP, Randall is the best and most qualified choice. The facts show, when Keith Martin decided to step aside, the riding reverted to its traditional left-right dynamic and as a result it is more profitable for us to back Randall and vote for him rather than split the vote and give Troy the keys to the office.

Permalink Reply by Tia Leschke on April 25, 2011 at 1:21pm

I would be feeling the same as you had the decision gone the other way. But I *would* have voted for Lillian had that been the decision. *NOT* this time, Troy!

Permalink Reply by Wendy Perry on April 25, 2011 at 1:37pm

I am wondering if you have seen a poll for our riding? If a poll comes out that shows more support for Lillian Szpak,will you change this recommendation? We do not want a Desouza win.

Permalink Reply by TBone on April 25, 2011 at 6:51pm

There won't be a poll that comes out showing more support for her because she is a distant third. I like Lillian but let's face facts. This riding is a battle between the Conservatives and the NDP and you will be doing this riding no favours confusing people and telling them to vote Liberal when that is just going to split the vote.

I understand your passions given you said earlier you are volunteering for Lillian, but the reality is that a vote for the NDP keeps Troy out. A vote for the Liberals elects him.

Permalink Reply by Luna on April 25, 2011 at 3:11pm

Woo. Glad I didn't vote on Friday!

We're NDP'er who voted for Keith Martin last time. I'm very glad to be going back to the NDP this time.

Permalink Reply by Oona Hayes on April 25, 2011 at 6:57pm

Ditto! Ditto. Ditto!

Permalink Reply by Gus B on April 25, 2011 at 10:11pm

I'm a Green supporter who will hold his nose and vote for Garrison and the NDP. Anything to help get rid of Harper...

Permalink Reply by Mary Wood on April 26, 2011 at 9:41pm

why don't you register with votepair, and pair with an NDP supporter from Gulf Islands? That person could vote for Elizabeth May - a green vote for you, in exchange for you voting for Garrison - an NDP vote for them. It would maximize the success of both votes.

http://www.votepair.ca/

Permalink Reply by Jared Gordon on April 26, 2011 at 12:11pm

I think the recent NDP push will have those who would rather vote NDP than Liberal vote NDP. I for one will be voting NDP on May 2nd. Sorry Wendy, the swarm has spoken.

Permalink Reply by Wendy Perry on April 26, 2011 at 12:25pm

Thats O.K. Jared,I really wish we could have seen a poll,to know for sure.I think Lillian is amazing,she is a fighter! I love how she has stood up to Troy.I feel that she would fight for me,and us all! I will continue to support her!