Loyal Wooldridge to seek NDP nomination again in Kelowna Centre

Loyal Wooldridge is returning to the provincial political arena, announcing another bid for the B.C. N-D-P in Kelowna Centre.

Wooldridge, who is leaving Kelowna city council after two terms, will seek the party’s nomination for the riding he narrowly lost in the 2024 provincial election.

Conservative Kristina Loewen defeated Wooldridge by 40 votes in the 2024 contest, according to Elections B.C. results.

Wooldridge was first elected to Kelowna city council in 2018 and announced earlier this year that he would not seek another term.

He says his decision to pursue provincial office is driven by issues he believes require action beyond the municipal level, including public safety, homelessness and economic growth.

Wooldridge also says he intends to continue living in Kelowna if elected.

His return puts him on track for another contest with Loewen, although the final field of candidates has not yet been established. Nominations for the Oct. 24 provincial election remain open until Oct. 3.