Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
MIDDLESEX-LONDON - In an exclusive interview, Kent Keenan, the Liberal Party candidate for Middlesex-London, shared his vision for the riding, his background, and his perspectives on several pressing issues. Keenan, who has deep roots in the community of Middlesex County, discussed everything from healthcare to immigration, and the looming trade tensions with the United States.
Reporter: Kent, could you start by telling us a bit about your background and your connection to this riding?
Kent Keenan: I grew up here in Middlesex. I went to Parkview Public School in Komoka and Medway High School in Arva. I earned a BA in French and Political Science from UWO and an MBA from Queen’s University. My early career took me to the Canadian embassy in Beijing and I also worked in the airline industry, but my heart has always been in this riding, where I learned to play hockey in Mount Brydges and participated in track meets in Glencoe.
R: What are your main goals for Middlesex-London if you are elected?
Keenan: My main goal is to make Middlesex-London the best riding in the country. I plan to listen to the residents and act on their behalf, ensuring that their needs and wants guide my actions.
R: There seems to be some uncertainty among voters after ten years of Liberal governance. Why should people continue to trust the Liberal Party?
Keenan: I believe Mark Carney is the solution. He has stepped up to preserve and enhance our national integrity and quality of life. He is the best person to handle our challenges, including those posed by Trump’s administration. When Carney speaks, even Trump listens, which says a lot about his capabilities.
R: What criticisms, if any, do you have of the Liberal Party?
Keenan: Honestly, the main criticism I heard while door-knocking was about Trudeau, not about the party’s policies. With Carney leading us now, I believe he is a savior for our country, bringing fresh leadership that is desperately needed.
R: Let’s talk about healthcare. What improvements are needed in Middlesex-London?
Keenan: We urgently need more healthcare professionals. One of my priorities is to simplify the credential recognition process for doctors and nurses, trained in different Canadian provinces or internationally, allowing them to practice here without redundant training. This would also include a mentorship program to integrate them into our healthcare system more efficiently.
R: Immigration seems to be a divisive topic. What is your take on it?
Keenan: Our problem is not too much immigration; it’s that we are not having enough children to support our aging population. Immigrants are vital for our growth and sustainability. With Carney at the helm, I believe we can manage immigration in a way that benefits everyone.
R: The housing crisis is another significant issue. What are the proposed solutions?
Keenan: Carney plans to replicate the mass housing projects from 1939, which were crucial during the war. While these might not be luxury homes, they will provide much-needed affordable housing options for many Canadians.
R: With the current U.S. tariffs impacting Canada, what are your thoughts on this economic tension?
Keenan: It’s a wake-up call that we are too dependent on the U.S. We need to diversify and strengthen our internal markets. Carney’s leadership is pivotal here; he is pushing for economic independence and resilience.
R: Finally, if you could achieve one major change for Middlesex-London during your term, what would it be?
Keenan: I would focus on making Middlesex-London a self-sufficient community that thrives independently of external pressures, particularly from the U.S. Strengthening our local economy and resources is key to enduring prosperity.
