In Nickel Belt, the Ontario New Democratic Party's France Gelinas easily won re-election in a landslide Thursday night, saying she's looking forward to having more colleagues at Queen's Park, and to continue fighting for the north.
“I came in with mixed emotions. Canvassing for 28 days is exhausting. You are a little bit anxious, but right now it just feels great. It feels like all of the hard work has paid off. I think the people of Nickel Belt and I am very grateful for their support.” said Gelinas.
The incumbent MPP got more votes than the second and third finishers combined.
Ontario Progressive Conservative candidate Jo-ann Cardinal landed in second place and running for the Liberals, Tay Butt trailing way back in third place.
We talked to constituents about the result:
“I’m happy for France and I think she’s doing a good job, so that’s why I voted for her.” said one man.
“Last few years watching France Gelinas, I mean, she’s into healthcare and changes for the elderly, so I think she’s really good.” said one woman.
“She’s always there to help. I’ve been here before, I’m from Sudbury, and she always helped me out.” said another.
This will be Gelinas’ 4th term at Queen’s Park.
“It feels like the message of hope that Andrea brought forward , the change for the better, is resonating with people and it's kind of exciting. I mean, when I worked really hard on the pharmacare and dental care program, it looks like those are things people want to see going forward.” said Gelinas.
She says that she wants to make sure no one is left behind with the Ford majority government and that the middle-class doesn’t continue to take a step back.
