NDP’s Wightman holds virtual campaign launch

NDP candidate Lori Wightman shows a sticker she has on her computer during her virtual campaign launch last Friday night.

The New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate for the Essex riding went online last Friday night for her official campaign launch.

The launch for Lori Wightman’s federal campaign saw her characterized as a fighter for people and a champion for the region. Wightman said she was grateful for the support and solidarity she experienced during the Zoom meeting. 

Noting she grew up in River Canard, Wightman said her parents had a small business and when her parents split up, her mother had to cobble together jobs to earn a living before she was hired at the Ford Motor Company. She said she learned lessons growing up and watching the work they had to put in.

“The NDP is ensuring that when life gets hard, no one falls through the cracks,” said Wightman. “I’m running because I see friends and neighbours struggling every day.”

Wightman said the NDP is a party who works for people and wants to “lift people up.” She said she worked to support her daughter who had a life-threatening cancer diagnosis, and questioned what happens to others facing the same situation and don’t have the same level of support.

“No one will work harder or fight for the people of Essex than I will,” said Wightman.

Wightman, who was a union head during the eight-month library strike in 2016-17, said she “stood shoulder-to-shoulder” with people and listened to their concerns.

“I never gave up on them and I’ll never give up on you,” she said during the call.

New Democrats have a plan for working people, Wightman said, and encouraged supporters to “don’t let them tell you it can’t be done.”

“It’s time to show everyone what can be done,” she said.

Wightman also took a few swipes at Conservative incumbent Chris Lewis, telling supporters “we deserve real representation” and someone who will stand up for them. Wightman said it was Windsor West MP Brian Masse, also a New Democrat, who went to Washington regarding the tariff issue.

“He didn’t show up again,” she said of Lewis.

Wightman added national pharmacare is making a difference and needs to be expanded.

A video was played from party leader Jagmeet Singh, who stated “we’re standing up for Canadians. Our candidates fight for Canadians.” Former Essex MP Tracey Ramsey said she has stood with Wightman and that she “has been showing up for Essex for two decades.”

Ramsey added the Conservative approach to resolving issues is cutting services and health care.

CUPE national president Fred Hahn also said Wightman is a fighter.

“I know damn well who I want in our corner fighting for us,” he said.

Former Essex MPP Taras Natyshak added after three failed federal candidacies and three successful provincial runs, “I know what it takes to get there.” He asked for donations to Wightman’s campaign, stating it takes a passionate group to rally around a candidate.

NDP’s Wightman launches holds virtual campaign launch

By Ron Giofu