Area politicians are weighing in on the fact that Anthony Rota returns for a fourth term as Nipissing-Timiskaming M.P.
Rota was victorious by close to 11,000 votes over the incumbent Jay Aspin during Monday nights Red Wave which has led to a Liberal Government Majority.
Back in 2011, The conservative upset Rota by a mere 18 votes.
North Bay Mayor Al McDonald made the trek to the Davedi Club to personally congratulate Rota on his election victory after his victory speech.
“I was very happy for him and thrilled for his family,” said McDonald, who was the Conservative candidate who lost to Rota in the 2004 Federal Election.
“He worked hard over the last two years to get elected. He will do a great job for our city and region. I look forward to working with him to build a better city. There are great opportunities as well as great challenges that we will face together. We have worked extremely well together in the past. I have already spoken with him about getting together over the next week when everything settles down for him.”
McDonald believes the riding will benefit by having a M.P. with experience.
“Anthony is a proven hard worker, he understands that you need to bring people together, to work towards goals that will build a stronger community and he gets what it takes to make things happen,” said McDonald.
“He also understands the challenges faced by elected officials, the criticism that comes with the job, the stress and long hours needed to have success. Experience cannot be understated, the learning curve is steep in elected life. He has that experience and can get right to work on critical issues right away. There are many files that he can assist us on and has the background and knowledge to be able to make a difference.”
Nipissing M.P.P. Vic Fedeli, who was making calls on behalf of Aspin on election day, credited his conservative colleague for his efforts, but welcomes Rota back.
“First I want to thank Jay Aspin for his years of service and dedication to this riding. I congratulate Anthony on his successful campaign, and now look forward to working with him to continue to further the best interests of Nipissing,” said Fedeli in an email to BayToday.ca.