Even though the Chilliwack-Hope by-election has yet to be called, it is starting to feel like silly season already.
Candidates for the three parties that historically take the lead are in now place, and awaiting the big announcement. The Conservatives had named John Martin, a criminology professor, as their running man early in the game. NDP's Gwen O'Mahoney (runner-up in the 2009 election) will kick off her campaign tomorrow. Her party's leader, Adrian Dix, is rumoured to be attending.
In fact, there's been a steady stream of politicians to this riding over the past few weeks. But they were all topped off with a visit by the premier herself last Thursday.
Clark spent the day in Agassiz and Rosedale, shaking hands and flashing her pearly whites for the camera.
It's no doubt she was in town to show off her own Liberal candidate, Laurie Throness, for the MLA seat left vacant by now-retired Barry Penner.
Throness and Clark spent much of the day and chatting with locals about two things: Jobs and the impending election.
While job creation always has and always will be a top priority of the government of the day, elections shouldn't be. Clark has until July 9 to call an election, which means we could be facing six more months of ramped-up politicking before we even get to visit the polls.
Voter apathy? More like voter boredom. By the time summer rolls around, we'll be up to our ears in political promises and rehearsed rhetoric.
Let's hope the premier's visit is a sign she's ready to roll, and secure one of the most important jobs for the future of this riding — our MLA's.