The Libertarian Party has a candidate running in the Cowichan Valley for the provincial election in May.
James Anderson, a plumber and gas fitter who lives and works in the Valley, said this is his first time running in an election campaign.
Anderson, 35, said he decided to throw his hat in the ring because he’s growing increasingly concerned about how the government is treating its citizens.
He said he believes the government is “getting too big for its britches.”
“People’s liberties and personal freedoms like free speech are under attack, public spending is out of control, and I think it’s time something is done about these issues,” Anderson said.
“I’m a firm believer in the philosophy that says if you’re not harming anyone, you should feel free to live your life as you see fit and not be dictated to by government bureaucrats.”
Anderson said the Libertarian Party is the only viable option for people looking to take back control from the traditional political parties.
He said he and the party are committed to lowering taxes by reducing the unnecessarily large size of government, reducing the amount of red tape associated with running a business and limiting government control over how people live their lives and use their own property.
“The party promotes the values that I hold,” Anderson said.
“I want to be a voice of reason in a crowded room full of people trying to decide how you should live your life.”
The other candidates in the provincial election in the Cowichan Valley so far are the NDP’s Lori Iannidinardo, the Liberals’ Steve Housser, Sonia Furstenau, who is running for the Green Party, and Ian Morrison who is running as an independent.