Kelly Day, People’s Party of Canada

Personal details. Name, age, hometown

Kelly Day, 33. Born and raised in Estevan.

Tell us about yourself

I’m an enthusiastic and hard-working PPC candidate, seeking to bring respect and fairness back into politics. I work in the natural health industry. I also run a YouTube channel covering social and political commentary. I’m a singer, songwriter and pianist. I appreciate the simple life: Loved ones, nature, animals. I live in Prince Albert with my wonderful new husband.

What’s a little-known fact about you?

I insist on driving cars with a manual transmission unless I absolutely have to drive an automatic!

Why should voters hire you?

The People’s Party of Canada brings vision, common sense and real change to politics. Our candidates come from diverse backgrounds, but we are united in our love for Canada. We desire to change the corrupt cycles of our establishment parties. We stand for individual freedom, personal responsibility, fairness and respect — values which I try to embody in my personal and professional life. I love my country, I am passionate about the Prince Albert riding and ready to learn about the concerns of the voters here. I am not a politician — I am just a regular Canadian. I live with honesty, integrity and courage, and will represent you democratically and with passion in Ottawa!

Who should we call for a reference?

Daniel Tyrie, staff member at PPC headquarters (political reference), or Heather Irene (work reference).

What is your greatest strength? What is your greatest weakness?

My greatest strength is my ability to mediate with a balance of head, heart and gut. My greatest weakness is that I tend to take things too personally.

Where do you stand on:

Gun laws? I firmly believe that law-abiding firearm owners in Canada deserve respect. They already go through a rigorous process to become legal firearm owners. They should not be punished for those who commit gun crime — the criminals should. As someone who is in the process of getting my PAL and RPAL, I see the need for more gun education in Canada, especially as it pertains to function versus looks.

The need for more pipelines? I believe that Canada needs to continue to develop its abundant resources, though responsibly. I stand by Maxime Bernier’s plan to impose Section 92(10) to ensure this is done, in the interest of all of Canada. I believe that Canadian oil is more ethical than many alternatives from elsewhere in the world. I also know we must respect the environment and concerns for sustainability. This is why we must ensure proper regulations and the use of the most technologically advanced equipment and processes available, to protect our beautiful land. I also would like to see more partnership with First Nations communities to ensure that they have prosperity and jobs coming to their communities, and that the pipelines do not negatively affect their health or safety.

Western alienation? This is a topic I heard of frequently while growing up in rural Saskatchewan, and one I am now passionate about. Many citizens in western provinces, in particular Alberta and Saskatchewan, justifiably feel ignored by Ottawa. It lies partly in the fact that we feel our vote doesn’t count, but also that we feel our voices aren’t represented in Ottawa. Decisions are made by elitist bureaucrats who don’t understand our unique industries, concerns or identity. I’m not a separatist, as I long to unite our country. But I do understand why the separatist sentiment is rising. The policies of the PPC are pro-western and pro-unity, and include rewriting the equalization formula to be more fair, better interprovincial trade policy and the decentralization of the government in multiple areas. Maxime also allows full freedom of speech and conscience of our MPs, provided they align with overall party values. This means they are not censored, thus can democratically represent their constituents no matter how taboo the concern.

China? What should our approach be with some of our markets blocked? This is an extremely delicate situation, since we must recognize multiple elements and perspectives: We know that there are egregious human rights violations occurring in China, as well as slave labour conditions and the situation in Hong Kong. But we also know that we need to have a positive trade relationship with China. A delicate balance must be struck to ensure that we are taking the issues of human rights seriously, not condoning such acts — but also somehow negotiating trade deals that can be mutually beneficial. This can only be done through a strong, unwavering leader who can earn the respect of leaders around the world. I believe Maxime Bernier is that leader.

Are we facing a climate change crisis? Is carbon tax the answer? The PPC is very strongly against what we call ‘climate alarmism.’ This does not mean we are against environmentalism; far from it. I consider myself a conservationist, as do many of our candidates and supporters. What is unfortunate is that the climate change discussion has completely taken over other important issues in this area. It also breaks people into two camps: Supposed “climate deniers” (anyone who questions the narrative of a climate crisis, the UN Paris Climate Accord, etc.) and “climate activists.” This causes a great divide among Canadians and worldwide. The People’s Party is about practical solutions in ensuring clean water, air and soil for Canadians, including fixing the major issues of clean drinking water on many First Nations reserves. We believe that the handling of CO2 emissions should be transferred to the provinces; we would therefore abolish the national carbon tax. We do not see the carbon tax as a fair or viable solution to ensure a healthy environment for our country or world.

It’s a day off and you can do anything you want. What would it be?

I would spend as much of it with my husband — preferably outside among the sun in a place like Prince Albert National Park, or anywhere with as many trees as possible. It would certainly include a nice walk with the dogs, perhaps a short road trip to a nearby outdoor destination, some good food, and finishing by curling up with a book or a good movie.

Who inspires you?

In general, I’m inspired by people who follow their convictions, and live with integrity and honesty with themselves and others despite risk of persecution. Jordan Peterson has been a major inspiration in my recent years, and in my political career. My father, who passed away this summer, also inspired me greatly. He taught me to always “call a spade a spade,” even if people don’t like it, and to never be arrogant or ignore “the little guy.” He inspires my campaign every day, as do my mother and my sister, who are amazing women who support me through everything.

What is your hidden talent?

I’m a pretty decent sharpshooter. When in Air Cadets growing up, I won frequent range awards, including best female in a provincial competition.

What do you wish you could do but can’t?

I wish I could have my own children, but due to health issues, I cannot. We plan to adopt!

Who are the three people, dead or alive, that you’d love to have dinner with?

My father, who recently passed, Mother Teresa and Dave Rubin.

How do you take your coffee?

Mixed with a little chaga and lion’s mane mushroom, sweetened with hazelnut creamer or cream and sugar.

What’s the one album you’d take with you on a desert island? What embarrassing song do you admit to on your playlist?

A Big Wreck greatest hits album. I have plenty of likely “embarrassing” songs on my playlist, as I have a very eclectic taste in music!

What is your guilty pleasure?

French fries and Lindt chocolate. Although, I don’t feel that guilty about it …

What is the last book you read?

12 Rules for Life by Jordan Peterson.

What is your favourite TV show? What are you binge watching?

I don’t watch much television. I really enjoy UK-based crime dramas. Shetland was a Scottish series I could watch multiple times.

What is your all-time favourite movie?

It’s a tie between The Lord of the Rings series and Good Will Hunting.