With the federal election fast approaching, get to know your local Similkameen-South Okanagan-West Kootenay NDP candidate: Linda Sankey.
Who is Linda Sankey?
Linda Sankey lives in Penticton and has deep ties to the area.
“I am deeply rooted in this area. My husband Martyn and I were married in 1985, and we raised three children in Penticton, where we still live today,” she said.
“Our family has grown, and we now have five grandchildren, ranging from ages 3 to 18 years old. I have seen how important stability is for families, and this drives my dedication to building a better future for all of us.”
Sankey says she has over 30 years of experience in both government and non-government jobs.
“My career began at BC Housing, where I worked as a shop steward, advocating for the rights of unionized workers. From there, I transitioned to the non-profit sector, where I became the Executive Director of the South Okanagan Similkameen Brain Injury Society, supporting vulnerable populations and advocating for those in need.”
“Throughout my career, I have fought for adequate health care for people living with disabilities, fighting for the support and services they need to live healthy, independent lives.”
“My work has focused on securing funding for affordable housing, managing capital renovations, and navigating grant writing and contract management. I’ve had the privilege of serving on the City of Penticton Housing Task Force and as co-chair for the 100 More Homes Penticton Collaborative.”
The Issues: Tariffs, Affordability and Housing
Sankey says affordability is a big concern facing the riding and ongoing tariffs are adding to the issue.
“I think the threats from the South are the most pressing issues for our region. People are struggling to get by with the rising costs of living, from skyrocketing rent and food prices to the increasing burden of utility bills. Many are working multiple jobs, yet still finding it difficult to make ends meet.”
“Affordability is top of mind, and it’s clear that people feel like they’re being left behind. There’s a growing sense of insecurity about the future, and concerns about the impact of international pressures, particularly tariffs and the potential threats from the south. Donald Trump’s policies, especially on trade, are still a looming worry. We’ve seen the toll that trade disputes can have on local economies, especially in sectors like forestry, mining and agriculture, which are the backbone of our region.”
She supports retaliatory tariffs and says the NDP will work to grow impacted industries.
“The NDP will reject any trade deals that sell out our jobs, healthcare, or resources. We will protect and grow good union jobs, especially in industries affected by Trump’s tariffs. We’ll ensure EI works for all Canadians, with better benefits, faster access, and coverage for gig and self-employed workers.”
“By investing in Canadian-made infrastructure, we’ll create jobs, using Canadian steel and workers. We’ll use retaliatory tariffs to support impacted industries like steel, aluminum, and auto, while protecting Canadian industries, Indigenous rights, and labor laws. Canada is not for sale—and the NDP will fight to keep it that way.”
When it comes to housing, Sankey says her background will come in handy and the NDP is prioritizes affordable housing to address homelessness.
“The NDP continues to prioritize affordable housing and addressing homelessness as key pillars of its policy platform. The NDP’s approach emphasizes a combination of increased investment, legislative changes, and community-driven solutions to ensure that every Canadian has access to safe, affordable housing.”
“To tackle homelessness, the NDP advocates for an expansion of the National Housing Strategy with an emphasis on constructing new affordable housing units. This would not only provide immediate relief but also ensure long-term solutions by increasing the overall housing supply in areas that need it most.”
Final Words
Sankey says she will carry on the work started by retiring MP Richard Cannings.
“In this riding, we have been well served by incumbent MP, Richard Cannings. Right now, we can not risk electing Conservatives that would take our country in the wrong direction. Progressive voters must rally together. We know the NDP is the only party that can defeat the Conservatives here. Splitting the vote, would only help Poilievre. Please, use your vote to send an NDP MP back to Ottawa to fight for you.”
“New Democrats believe everyone deserves a decent job that allows you to afford a home, pay your bills, and have something left over to save. That’s why we’ll continue to fight for policies that help lower your bills. We will scrap the GST on everyday essentials, like groceries, kids’ clothes, and home heating, putting more money back in your pocket. We’ll cap prices on basic food items, so that no one has to choose between paying rent or feeding their family.”
“The time has come for a change. It’s time to put people first. I have spent my entire career supporting folks with enormous pressures on their monthly budgets. I will be an MP that stands up for everyday Canadians.”
The federal election is on April 28.
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