With just a month to go before voters head to the polls, another candidate is entering the race in the Prince George–Peace River–Northern Rockies riding.
Dawson Creek’s Cory “Grizz” Longley has announced a candidacy bid for Member of Parliament under the NDP banner.
While still needing the required signatures to get his name on the ballot, the former ‘Pure Country 890′ host says that it’s time for change in the historically right-leaning district.
“I want them to know that I plan to work very hard for them and make sure that what they need to see in the riding gets done,” said Longley, speaking with CJDC-TV.
He will face off against incumbent Bob Zimmer, who is seeking re-election with the Conservative Party.
“You can judge our current MP on what he has done or what he has not done,” said Longley. “You can see how many times he’s voted against your interests in this riding,” Referring specifically to Zimmer voting nay on the Canadian Dental Care Program -- the product of a supply-and-confidence agreement between the Liberals and the NDP -- that has since seen 451,307 British Columbians approved for as of March 28, 2025, according to Statistics Canada.
“What we need to see is a strong NDP government, and if we can’t get that, we need to continue the successes we’ve seen over the last government in Canada,” Longley said.
This marks Longley’s second attempt to secure a seat as MP. He highlighted the historical dominance of the Conservatives and Liberals, stating, “These two parties are the only two parties that have consistently screwed voters throughout Canada’s history.
Longley pointed to the NDP’s track record on affordability and healthcare as key reasons for voters to consider a change.
“The NDP are beholden to no one, and that’s why we’re the party for the people,” he added.
Longley will be holding a bowling event from 3:00-5:00 p.m. March 29th at the Hypertension Escape Bowling Lanes & Corner Pin Lounge in Dawson Creek to garner signatures and inform constituents on the NDP platform.
Also in the running, representing the People’s Party of Canada, is Bear Lake postmaster and reservist David Watson. Meanwhile, the Green Party has put forward Mary Forbes, who is campaigning on promises of affordable housing and climate action.
The Liberal Party of Canada has yet to confirm a candidate for the election, which is scheduled for April 28.
Correction: An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated that it was Longley’s third federal campaign. This has been corrected to reflect that it is actually his second. Longley has run for office federally twice and provincially once. CJDC-TV regrets this error and apologizes for any confusion caused.