Wythe: Why I’m running as a Conservative in Ottawa-Vanier-Gloucester

Conservative candidate Dean Wythe: ‘I will work for everyone in our community, regardless of their political views.’Article content

The Citizen invited Ottawa candidates from the four main parties to write a short article explaining what they will do for their local riding if elected. Some chose to participate; others did not. Today, Ottawa-Vanier-Gloucester Conservative Party candidate Dean Wythe:

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My name is Dean Wythe, and I am running to be your member of Parliament.

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Ottawa-Vanier-Gloucester is one of the most diverse ridings in the country — culturally, linguistically and economically. It is a microcosm of Canada in every respect. I am proud to call this community my home.

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I live in New Edinburgh with my wife, Iris. We recently welcomed into the world our first child, James. As a new father, I’ve been reflecting on the state of our nation and the trajectory we’re on. Like many parents, I’m concerned about the country my child will grow up in.

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The last 10 years have been hard on Canada. The crises are mounting: housing, crime, cost of living, just to name a few. Those crises have made us vulnerable to crippling tariffs and unprecedented threats to our sovereignty. I believe many share my concerns.

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Every day, I hear from people in our riding who are struggling, who can no longer afford groceries, let alone save for the future. Good jobs are hard to come by. Many are losing hope.

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I knock on the doors of a middle-class that is being squeezed, including thousands of public servants doing critically important work, such as my former colleagues in defence, intelligence, law enforcement and foreign affairs. Many are anxious about the path their country is on.

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I meet business owners and entrepreneurs, the risk-takers who are so vital to our riding’s vibrant culture. They are over-taxed, over-regulated and often feel punished for their success.

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And despite the unprecedented challenges we now face, our government has been missing in action for months, focused solely on its political survival. It has put party before country.

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As someone who dedicated his career to defending Canada’s security and prosperity, I could no longer stand by and watch. I had to do something. I never thought I’d run for office, but after finding out I was going to be a dad, I realized I could not leave my country’s future up to chance.

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As your member of Parliament, I will work to:

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• Reduce crime, drug use and homelessness by fighting for proper investments, including preventive care and treatment;

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• Lower your taxes, offering people the opportunity to learn new skills and find employment, creating better paying jobs; and