I'm not taking donations

While offers of support are always appreciated, once more I'm declining donations to my campaign, just as I did in 2018 and 2022.

An election campaign can take an enormous amount of time and effort, and even a frugal campaign is not within everyone's means. While a donation-free campaign is not possible for everyone, a modest, self-funded campaign is something I have kept in my financial planning — just in case I decided to run again.

Why a self-funded campaign matters to me

1. 01

   Campaigns should be about finding the best leaders, and those are not necessarily the people who can spend the most money.

2. 02

   I am frustrated by the level of access given to corporate lobbyists at the provincial and federal levels of government. I am also frustrated by corporate sponsorship, events, and access at local government conferences; I feel it gives corporations unfair access and influence over municipal decision-making. When I have the opportunity, I vote against such sponsorship. While these things are not exactly the same as friends and neighbours supporting their preferred candidates, they have turned me off the combination of money and politics.

3. 03

   Once elected, and excluding local government conferences, we are held to a high standard in terms of not accepting gifts, meals, or other benefits as part of our work as elected officials. Not accepting campaign donations feels consistent with this standard.

4. 04

   Campaign financial reporting is simplified.

5. 05

   This approach feels most consistent with my values and integrity.

If you would like to help

While I am not accepting donations of money, I will be grateful to have campaign help from volunteers who share my values and hopes for our community. If you'd like to join us, please email Chris@ChrisForSquamish.ca.