Chris Warkentin, Peace River MP.

The Progressive Conservative Party of Canada is once again being represented in the Peace River riding by incumbent Member of Parliament Chris Warkentin. Warkentin, a resident of Sexsmith confirmed his intentions to seek re-election as M.P. last week. “It’s (serving as MP) something I’m extremely passionate about,” says Warkentin in a telephone conversation with the Express. “I am committed to ensuring Peace Country residents’ views and concerns are well represented in the House of Commons.” Warkentin, who was first elected to the position in January of 2006, believes Canadians as a whole are feeling more comfortable and confident with the Stephen Harper Conservative government than ever before. Still, he isn’t about to make any predictions about how everything will shake down come Oct. 14 – Election Day for Canadians. “I’m not taking anything for granted in this election. I’m running as a politician, not a fortune teller,” he explains, adding that “as a party we’re hopeful that we can form the next majority government.” Whether or not that comes to fruition will ultimately be up to voters, all of whom are paying close attention to the opinions and proposed policies of the various party leaders heading into next month’s election. “The emphasis of this election is more of an election about the economy and leadership, which plays an integral role in the economic realities of this country,” Warkentin explains. The state of the economy is one of several key issues he’s heard from constituents while on the campaign trail this past week. Other topics have ranged from a labour shortage in the Peace Country to concerns with the environment. Warkentin, who campaigned in Grande Prairie and the Peace River area last week, will be making his way to the Smoky River region in the near future. Watch the Express for details.