SASKTODAY.ca staff reached out to the candidates in all of Saskatchewan's ridings with a universal questionnaire. We will be publishing these results in order they were received.
Name: Michael Wright
Age: 39
Running for: Green Party of Canada, in Regina–Lewvan
Profession: Public School Teacher
Currently residing in (city or neighbourhood): Regina, Cathedral Neighbourhood
Previous political experience: Saskatchewan Green Party candidate in 2003, 2011, 2016, and 2020.
Who is your political hero?
E.A. Partridge, the Sage of Sintaluta and my collateral ancestor.
What inspired you to enter the election race?
The encouragement of my friends and family.
What topics are most important to you in this federal election?
Climate change and reconciliation.
Are you concerned about the short campaign time line for this election?
I am not as concerned about the short time line as I am about the election being called for the political convenience of Justin Trudeau.
What supports, if any, do you feel are needed to help businesses and residents with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic?
Existing supports should be maintained until the pandemic is over. Targeted public investment and private business incentives in green sectors will accelerate our economic recovery.
What, if any, agricultural federal programs and initiatives do you feel are necessary to help support farmers and ranchers in this year’s conditions?
Emergency supports should be given to ranchers to maintain their herds this year and for farmers affected by drought.
Is there an issue that people are focusing too much?
Justin Trudeau’s socks.
Is there an issue that doesn’t get enough attention?
The unsafe water in many remote communities. Clean safe drinking water for everybody is one of our priorities.
Why did you choose to run for your particular party?
I share the Green Party’s values of non-violence, social justice, sustainability, participatory democracy, ecological wisdom, and respect for diversity.
What is the biggest issue facing your party’s chance at success?
Strategic voting has always been an issue for third parties. We encourage voters to consider us as the strategic choice to send a message to Justin Trudeau!
How will you engage and encourage young voters to participate in this election?
We have a comprehensive web engagement strategy for young people who get their media electronically. Check out our website at michaelwright.ca!
What is your party’s leader’s biggest flaw?
In her last election in the riding of Toronto Centre, she only came in second. This time we are pulling for her to win!
Once elected, your job is to represent your entire riding. How do you plan on representing individuals who didn’t vote for you?
The individual who won’t vote for me include people who vote for other parties, people who spoil their ballots, people who could vote but do not, people that are not citizens, people under 18 years old, among others. Every Member of Parliament should be guided by their values to do what is best for all the people in the riding.
What informs your political stance? What books, publications, relationships or experiences?
I received a B.A.SC in Environmental Systems Engineering at the University of Regina which informs my view on the relationship between the economy and the environment. I received an M.Eng. in Civil Engineering from the Universidad de los Andes, which gave me global context for understanding the issues we face in Canada.
What local project or service would you advocate for more federal spending?
More transmission lines between Saskatchewan and Manitoba to balance their hydroelectricity with our wind and solar potential.
What is something people don’t know about you?
I play the fiddle for fun. If you are ever in the neighbourhood I’ll play you the Red River Jig!
