MLA Eric Foster outspent rival candidates by more than double

VERNON – There was big range in what Vernon-Monashee candidates spent on their election campaigns.

B.C. Liberal candidate Eric Foster — who won the election on May 9 with roughly 52 per cent of the vote — spent significantly more than his competitors. His expenses amounted to just over $75,000 — more than double the next highest spender, B.C. NDP candidate Barry Dorval, who spent roughly $32,300 on his campaign, according to financial documents filed with Elections B.C.

Keli Westgate with the B.C. Green Party spent just over $6,000 while Libertarian Don Jefcoat spent the least, just under $500.

The order of the most expensive campaign to the cheapest is the same as the order in which the candidates finished in the election.

Foster spent more than $20,000 on data processing and information technology, roughly $13,000 on media advertising and $1,300 on social functions and thank-you parties. He received $11,750 from individual donors, $11,300 from corporations, and nearly $73,000 from the B.C. Liberal Party. If you notice a discrepancy in his donations and what he spent, it’s because he didn’t use it all. There’s still over $21,000 in the campaign account.

Dorval spent most of his campaign cash on newsletters and promotional materials (about $4,800) followed by media advertising and office rent. His campaign was mostly funded by the B.C. NDP.

Westgates biggest expense was media advertising at just over $700. Her campaign was mostly funded by the B.C. Green Party, which shelled out just over $4,200, followed by about $1,800 in donations from individuals.


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Charlotte Helston

REPORTER

Charlotte Helston grew up in Armstrong and after four years studying writing at the University of Victoria, she came back to do what she loves most: Connect with the community and bringing its stories to life.

Covering Vernon for iNFOnews.ca has reinforced her belief in community. The people and the stories she encounters every day—at the courthouse, City Hall or on the street—show the big tales in a small town.

If you have an opinion to share or a story you'd like covered, contact Charlotte at Charlotte Helston or call 250-309-5230.

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