Former BC United candidate Ashley Ramsay to run as independent in Kelowna

Ashley Ramsay – the BC United candidate for Kelowna–Mission before Kevin Falcon announced he was pulling the party out of the election – has announced she intends to run in the riding as an independent.

The well-known businesswoman, who was selected by the official opposition in May, said going it alone allows her to “stay true to the hundreds of donors” who backed her “on this journey and for democracy itself.”

“My nearly 30 years of living and working in Kelowna have given me a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities that Okanagan residents face every day,” she said in a statement.

“Over the past week, I’ve listened closely to my constituents, and the message from thousands of doorsteps has been loud and clear: they demand choice, and I am that choice.”

Ramsay founded the award-winning animation studio Yeti Farm Creative.

Renee Merrifield, who has represented the riding since 2020, announced earlier this year that she won’t be seeking re-election.

Ramsay did not comment on Falcon’s decision to withdraw BC United’s candidates in an effort to create a united front – led by the BC Conservatives – against the BC NDP.

Some BC United candidates and MLAs have already moved over to the Conservatives, but John Rustad’s party is still in the process of announcing its nominees ahead of the Oct. 19 election.

In her statement, Ramsay added: “I am committed to providing Kelowna-Mission with a representative who not only understands their needs but also has the experience to make a tangible difference in the sectors crucial to our regional prosperity.

“With over 100 volunteers and strong endorsements from some of Kelowna’s most distinguished influencers, I am ready to win this campaign and serve our community with unwavering dedication."