As the April 28 federal election draws closer, Fernie and the Columbia–Kootenay–Southern Rockies region now have a full slate of confirmed candidates — including the newly announced Liberal Party representative, Reggie Goldsbury.

Meet the Candidates: The Fernie all Candidates Forum is planned for Thursday April, 18 @ 6:30PM at the Park Place Lodge, see the details here.

Conservative MP Rob Morrison is seeking re-election in the newly renamed Columbia–Kootenay–Southern Rockies riding, facing off against a mix of fresh contenders representing a range of political perspectives. Morrison is set to appear on the ballot alongside:

Kallee Lins – New Democratic Party (NDP)
Steven Maffioli – Green Party
Jim Wiedrick – Independent
Reggie Goldsbury – Liberal Party of Canada
Laurie Baird – People’s Party of Canada

Reggie Goldsbury’s candidacy fills a notable gap in the race. A Liberal Party riding spokesperson had previously confirmed that an announcement was imminent, and the official confirmation now rounds out the competitive field.

Formerly known as Kootenay–Columbia, the riding has long been considered a Conservative stronghold, with a brief exception from 2015 to 2019, when the NDP held the seat. Morrison was first elected in 2019 and won re-election in 2021, securing 43.62% of the vote.

With the race now underway and campaigning expected to ramp up across the region, the full roster of candidates — including the long-awaited Liberal entrant — is drawing close attention from voters, political observers, and local media.

When does voter registration close?
You can register in advance online until April 22 at 6 p.m. After that, you’ll have to register on arrival when you go to vote or in person at an Elections Canada office. Registering in advance will streamline the process when you visit a voting station.

You can find out more about how to register as a voter or to check your voter registration online here. If you need assistance registering, you can also call 1-800-463-6868.

Advance voting on the following days:
Friday, April 18, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 19, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Sunday, April 20, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Monday, April 21, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

All voting at: Fernie Senior Citizens Drop-In Centre
562 3rd Avenue Fernie

Election Day : Monday, April 28, 2025

You may vote from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at:
Fernie Senior Citizens Drop-In Centre
562 3rd Avenue Fernie