“It’s an honour to represent Cumberland South again,” said Jackson after being nominated.
Jackson was declared the winner after he received a majority of the 194 ballots cast at the Cumberland South Liberal Association Nomination Meeting Saturday afternoon at the Dr. Carson & Marion Murray Community Centre in Springhill.
One other candidate tossed his hat into the ring for the nomination – Scott Lockhart.
“Kenny will be a great candidate and I’m going to help him every bit I can,” said Lockhart after Jackson’s win.
Close to 300 people attended the meeting, and Lockhart pointed to the packed house as proof that they can get the vote out for Cumberland South at the next provincial election and defeat Jamie Baillie, the current MLA for Cumberland South.
“I think we all won here because we’ve had the biggest political meeting, probably, in the history of Cumberland County of any party,” said Lockhart. “I think my involvement brought a whole bunch of people out, and if we can get those people out on election day, then Mr. Baillie should be a little worried.”
The next election will be the third time Jackson will go up against Baillie, who is the leader of the opposition Conservatives.
Jackson ran for the Liberals against Baillie in the 2010 by-election, and again in the 2013 general provincial election.
He received 2165 votes in the by-election and 2,417 in the general election.
Jackson said every election has been a learning experience.
“Last time we had indications the vote was there but we didn’t get the vote out,” said Jackson. “That’s very important. If you don’t get the vote out you don’t win.”
He also says his name recognition has increased with each election.
“Getting your name recognized is important,” said Jackson. “People get to know you and feel comfortable talking to you and voting for you.”
Jackson, along with MP Bill Casey and Cumberland North MLA Terry Farrell, pointed out that Baillie doesn’t live in Cumberland South.
“I think it’s important for the voice of the MLA to be here in the riding. I find if you’re not here you’re not connected,” said Jackson. “If you’re just coming here to work then I think you’re vested interests don’t lie here in the riding.”
Protesters
A small contingent of protesters did gather at the Lions Park outside the community centre to show their support for teachers during the current work to rule campaign.
Bill Casey said he did not see the protesters upon his arrival at the meeting but hopes the impasse between teachers and the province can be resolved.
“I hope they both come back to the negotiations and sort this out because nobody is winning,” said Casey. “I hope it’s concluded shortly and the teachers go back and the students can get back to their extracurricular activities.”
