St. Johns Community Rally Behind Independent Candidate, Patrick Allard

Winnipeg, Manitoba: The upcoming October election promises to be a political showdown for the ages in the St. Johns ward. Patrick Allard, an independent candidate, emerges as a prominent figure seeking to unseat NDP incumbent Nahanni Fontaine. This electoral contest delves into the very core of why voters cast their ballots, and it is steeped in historical significance.

Allard’s campaign focuses on harnessing the power of local connections. For more than four decades, he has called the St. Johns ward home, residing in the house where he came into this world. This deep-rooted historical link resonates with many voters, who view Allard as a genuine local with an innate understanding of the community’s intricate needs from his personal experience.

One distinctive facet of Allard’s candidacy is his unique status as a candidate residing within the ward. Something he says can not be said of the incumbent. Whether living within the riding truly impacts representation is a subject of debate. Nevertheless, Allard staunchly believes it carries significant weight in this pivotal election. He wholeheartedly believes conducting business and serving the community’s people gives him a profound advantage that will be the deciding factor when residents go to cast their vote in early voting and on election day.

“My campaign office is right at the heart of the riding, a testament to my unwavering commitment to supporting local businesses. As a seasoned renovation contractor with two decades of hands-on experience, I represent the hardworking, blue-collar individuals who form the backbone of this community. 

I understand the everyday struggles, the pinch felt when gas prices rise, affecting each of us in the neighbourhood. This perspective drives my determination to bring about change, advocating for policies that resonate with the genuine concerns faced by my fellow residents.” Said, Allard

Embracing an outsider’s role in traditional politics, Allard brings a unique perspective to the campaign. His self-proclaimed status as a non-politician sets his candidacy apart, drawing considerable intrigue. He advocates prioritizing the community’s interests over political affiliations, which aligns with his independent stance. This independence grants him the freedom to vote based on what he believes will benefit the community most, free from the constraints of party lines.

Underpinning Allard’s campaign are two key factors, each with historical significance. Firstly, he seeks to secure the status of the first independent candidate to represent St. Johns, and the last time an independent served in the Manitoba Legislature was the late Harold Proctor Shewman in 1968, representing Morris Manitoba. Secondly, since its inception, he aspires to alter the ward’s voting trajectory, favouring a single party, the NDP. 

A cornerstone of Allard’s campaign is his unwavering commitment to addressing housing issues. He proposes an innovative approach that eliminates traditional barriers such as no long-term leases, background checks and substantial deposits, instead advocating for equitable access to housing for those in need. This approach emphasizes the belief that every individual, regardless of their background or financial status, deserves dignified housing. These are all things he practices daily, being a landlord to many tenants in the ward.

Given overwhelming support from the community, Allard feels it is to the benefit of the people to give the job as MLA to the person who has spent over two decades fixing up the boarded and dialect homes within the ward.

“I am always ready to engage with anyone with questions or concerns about myself, or views may be seen as controversial or buck the status quo.” Says Allard. He encourages open dialogue, emphasizing that voters should not pass judgment solely based on hearsay or information gleaned from social media. 

The election’s outcome remains uncertain as the St. Johns ward is pivotal. The focus has shifted from mere party lines to the essence of representation, community engagement, and the pursuit of policies that genuinely benefit the people. 

In the run-up to the impending election, St. Johns is becoming the stage for an electrifying political showdown that has captured the attention of many. While campaign signs may not cast votes, the tangible efforts of Allard to paint the riding with his signs indicating support is prominent. 

The community is taking notice of this unfolding campaign, sensing a potential shift in the political winds. As the campaign narrative unfolds, St. Johns is witnessing a stirring phenomenon, evoking a sense of change and anticipation within the neighbourhoods. The winds of transformation appear to be gusting through this electoral race, rendering it a focal point of keen observation. 

Allard’s campaign resonates deeply within the community, sparking real momentum. This electoral climate is evolving, and the literal and symbolic signs suggest that change may be on the horizon. The riding of St. Johns will be one of few to watch as it is shaping up to be an epic battle between the incumbent and longtime resident Allard.