The New Democrats have nominated Gord Johns as their candidate in the new federal riding of Courtenay-Alberni.
Johns, a Tofino councillor from 2008 to 2011 and executive director of the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce from 2010 to July 2014, defeated Courtenay councillor Ronna-Rae Leonard for the nomination. The nomination meeting was held in Coombs on Sunday.
"Gord's uniquely diverse experience includes a deep understanding of business and a profound commitment to protecting the environment," said NDP Leader Tom Mulcair. "Gord has already shown himself to be a strong public servant and there is no question he is an exceptional addition to our team, as we prepare to defeat Stephen Harper's Conservatives."
The NDP notes that In the 2011 election, in addition to the 103 New Democratic MPs elected, their candidates came second to Conservatives in 106 other ridings, including both of the ridings that are now encompassed by Courtenay-Alberni.
Johns will be running against John Duncan of the Conservatives in the next election, expected to be held in 2015.
