Nixon seeks re-election in Porter Creek South
The Minister of Health and Social Services will be running for re-election in his home riding of Porter Creek South.
In an interview with the News on Wednesday Mike Nixon said he consulted with friends and family but also asked his constituents.
“I would say most people I talked to are open and honest and frank and very supportive.
“They recognized I put in my time.
“I definitely do work hard on their behalf.”
Nixon was first elected during the last territorial election.
He successively held the portfolios for justice, tourism and culture, and his current one, health and social services.
He said he is proud of the planned 150-bed continuing care facility to be built in Whistle Bend.
The project came under heavy criticism from the opposition and some seniors because of its location and size.
“What my constituents tell me is that they’re very excited about this project coming forward,” said Nixon.
Just two nights ago he was out knocking on doors and met a nurse who told him the facility was much needed, he said.
He praised the Yukon Party’s fiscal decisions and noted his experience as tourism minister taught him a lot about the Yukon’s potential.
“The product we have here in Yukon, it’s sought off all around the globe,” he said.
He took a shot at the NDP and Liberals, noting unemployment rates in the territory are lower now than when the opposition parties were in power.
Nixon will be facing off against Yukon Liberal Ranj Pillai, a former Whitehorse city councillor and current executive director of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations.
The NDP hasn’t announced a candidate for the riding yet.
In 2011 Nixon won by 14 votes against the Liberal candidate at the time, Don Inverarity.
“In an election you can’t underestimate anyone,” Nixon said.
It’ll up to the electorate, he added.
“I’m a doer and I’m results-based,” he said.
“I’ll continue working the same way I’ve been for the past five years.”