Kari Whan may be new to politics, but she plans to hit the ground running.
After being named the provincial NDP candidate for the Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul riding, Whan was ready to get to work.
“I’m really eager to get out there and get started. I understand the needs of our community, the needs and wants of us out here, where our economy is linked to oil and gas, military spending, agriculture, and small business. I’m eager to fight for us,” she told the Nouvelle.
Whan moved to the area 16 years ago. She started as a high school teacher in Bonnyville, but transferred to Cold Lake Elementary where she has been ever since.
“I’ve always worked with families. I worked with families even before I became a teacher. I worked with at-risk youth and families, and I believe in fighting for us in this area and for what matters,” expressed Whan.
It was her passion for local families that got her into politics in the first place.
According to Whan, it was after hearing "the UCP is planning cuts to healthcare and education," that she decided to throw her name into the running.
"Those types of things are really important - that made me want to step forward and help with the fight," she noted.
The NDP announced Whan as the local candidate earlier this week.
“It feels great. It’s a learning curve and it’s going to be really interesting. I know hundreds of families here through living and teaching here. I look forward to talking to and helping them… helping our economy progress, and helping get what we need in this area,” Whan said.
She added, although it's a new role for her, she's eager to get started.
With her team quickly building, Whan is ready to start spreading the word about her platform and what the NDP stands for ahead of the provincial election.
“We’re ready to have meetings, get out there and door knock, talk to people, and educate people in regards to what’s been happening, with what the NDP’s been doing, and what will happen if the UCP and Jason Kenney gets in,” stated Whan.
Her plans are to keep the area going on the path it's already started, especially when it comes to the construction of schools and seniors' facilities.
“I think we need to keep going. There are a lot of new things happening. We’re looking at building schools in Alberta. I’m lucky enough to teach in one of those brand new schools,” she added.
Whan said she's excited to get to know the community even more and is ready to kick-off her political journey.
“I’m really excited to get out and start talking to people and campaigning."
In the newly formed Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul riding, Whan will be running against Alberta Party candidate Glenn Anderson and UCP candidate Dave Hanson.
