Description

As British Columbians prepare to head to the polls, join the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce and the University of the Fraser Valley on October 19 for an important evening focused on the issues shaping our region and the priorities of Abbotsford’s business community.

The 2026 All-Candidates Debate will bring together candidates seeking to represent our community in the provincial legislature, providing local business leaders, students, community stakeholders and residents with an opportunity to hear directly from those seeking office.

Throughout the evening, candidates will be invited to share their perspectives and respond to questions on issues affecting businesses and our broader community, with a strong focus on economic development, investment and the conditions needed for local businesses and communities to thrive.

As the voice of approximately 850 local businesses, the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce is committed to ensuring the priorities and experiences of employers, entrepreneurs and our broader business community are represented in conversations with those seeking public office.

Presented in partnership with the University of the Fraser Valley, the event will also provide an opportunity to bring together the business community, students and residents for an accessible and informative discussion about the issues facing our region.

This is your opportunity to hear directly from the candidates seeking to represent our community, learn more about their priorities and positions, and make an informed decision before casting your vote.

The debate will cover a range of issues relevant to the province and our region, including affordability and the cost of living, housing, healthcare, public safety, transportation and infrastructure, and other key provincial priorities. Given the partnership with the Chamber, there will be a focus on business and economic issues, while also including topics such as post-secondary education and other issues affecting students and young people.

Meet the Moderator:

Hamish Telford is an associate professor of political science at the University of the Fraser Valley. He is the author of Engaging Canadian Politics, second edition (Northrose, 2026). He is a past president of the BC Political Studies Association, and he twice served on the board of the Canadian Political Science Association. He is a frequent commentator on BC and Canadian politics in the local, national, and international media.

All candidates will be contacted once nominations close on Oct 4 2026.