Reclaiming Conservative Roots: Keith Benn's Pledge for Local and Provincial Progress

PORT LAMBTON – It is not very common to find politicians who do not follow a political script, a trend that is becoming more and more common in the world. It is also unusual to find politicians prepared in technical or academic topics for the benefit of their constituents. Last Wednesday, April 17, I discovered that such politicians exist.

I had the opportunity to do an extensive interview with Dr Keith Benn, New Blue Party candidate for the Lambton-Kent-Middlesex by-election scheduled for May 2, at his home in Port Lambton. Dr. Benn articulated his vision for the region, his concerns about current governmental pathways, and his intent to steer the course towards responsible governance and pragmatic solutions

I know your family has old ties to this region. Can you share more about your family's history in this area?

Dr. Keith Benn (KB): My family roots go back to the American colonies where some ancestors fought for King George. After the war, they resettled in Canada in 1793, moving to Eastern Ontario and then here in the 1880s. My great-grandfather was the Chief of Police in Wallaceburg, and his son founded Benn Iron Foundry in the early 1930s, which lasted over 60 years. I was born and raised in Wallaceburg and moved here when I was about 14.

You have an impressive background in geology. How did you decide to study geology?

KB: After starting university in an arts program, I took a break to work and travel, which led me to meet Canadian geologists in Kenya. Their work inspired me, leading to my studies in geology at Western University and further academic pursuits in Quebec and France.

You have been involved in academia and the minerals industry. How has this shaped your approach to politics?

KB: My industry and academic experience have taught me about managing budgets and the importance of accountability—qualities I believe are essential in government. Our current provincial government lacks accountability in financial management, which is something I aim to change.

What drove you to run with the New Blue Party?

KB: After recognizing that the current government was veering away from true conservative principles, I discovered a strong alignment with the New Blue Party's commitment to responsible governance. My candidacy for the 2022 election in Sarnia-Lambton further solidified my conviction that their platform resonates deeply with my principles.

You have mentioned a "climate scam" in a recent meeting. Could you elaborate on your views regarding climate change?

KB: With a PhD in Earth Sciences, my understanding is rooted in the historical context that Earth's climate is perpetually changing. Current climatic shifts fall within the bounds of what we have observed as natural variability over millennia. Often, the discourse around a 'climate crisis' is driven more by the pursuit of research funding than by robust scientific evidence. It's essential to approach climate change with a critical eye and focus on pragmatic solutions rather than yielding to exaggerated fears. My stance is that we need to address environmental issues without succumbing to unfounded panic.

Let's talk about local issues. What are your plans concerning the Dresden landfill and wind turbines in Chatham-Kent?

KB: The situation with the wind turbines in Chatham-Kent, where local water supplies have been contaminated with heavy metals, exemplifies a failure in government oversight. This issue is compounded by concerns over the Dresden landfill, where there's a proposal to build without a thorough environmental assessment, highlighting a pattern of negligence. If elected, I will advocate for rigorous environmental studies for all such projects to ensure they do not adversely affect our community. Comprehensive environmental assessments must be mandatory to prevent such oversight. It's crucial that the government is held accountable for these local environmental issues, ensuring transparency and community safety in all development projects.

Healthcare is a major concern in this region. What are your plans to improve services?

KB: My approach involves increasing transparency and accountability in healthcare funding, promoting private clinics funded through public health insurance, and advocating for more provincial control over healthcare funding. This would ensure better services and reduce dependency on federal transfers.

Education reform is also on your agenda. What changes are you proposing?

KB: We need to return to fundamentals in education, reducing political indoctrination and focusing on essential academic skills. I support offering more educational choices to families to encourage alternative forms of education that might better serve our children's needs.

Finally, what would you say to voters who are considering their options in this election?

KB: I represent a true conservative choice, advocating for responsible government, local control over education and healthcare, and accountability in environmental and fiscal management. I encourage voters looking for a candidate committed to these principles to consider the New Blue Party for a genuine change.

David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Middlesex Banner