Split vote lifted Gunn to victory despite controversy

By Rochelle Baker and Sonal Gupta, Local Journalism Initiative Reporters, Canada’s National Observer Controversial Conservative candidate Aaron Gunn ended his successful campaign the same way he started it: by keeping his whereabouts secret and avoiding questions from the media. Gunn, whose inflammatory social media history drew national attention and widespread calls for his removal as candidate, was elected in North Island-Powell River with 39 per cent of the vote. He flipped the riding, defeating NDP candidate Tanille Johnston, who garnered 33 per cent of the vote. Liberal Jennifer Lash carried 26 per cent and Green Jessica Wegg drew 2 per cent. Early campaigning helped Gunn, when the Liberal Party was still looking for candidates in many BC ridings as late as December, said Mario Canseco, pollster and the president of…

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