The North Delta Reporter sent all four candidates in the upcoming federal election a list of questions to help voters learn a bit more about each of them and what they stand for. Candidates were all given the same questions, word limits and deadline.
Below is the response as received from Liberal Party candidate Jill McKnight, with our questions in bold followed by the candidate’s answers in her own words. Here’s what Jill McKnight had to say:
1. Candidate’s first and last name: Jill McKnight
2. Party affiliation: Liberal Party of Canada
3. Candidate’s age: 45
4. What neighbourhood do you live in? Ladner
5. How many years have you lived in Delta? 42 years
6. Have you held elected office in past? No
7. What is your profession? Business owner
8. Social media accounts and website: IG: @jillmcknightdelta, Facebook: Jill McKnight, Website: jillmcknight.ca, X/Twitter: JMcKnightDelta, BlueSky: JillMcKnightDelta.Bsky.social
9. Telephone number voters can reach you at: 236-808-2877
10: Why are you running to be Delta’s MP? I am running to be Delta’s MP because I believe in leadership that unites people to create meaningful change. As an entrepreneur, I see the possibility of solutions and embrace creativity to solve problems. This election is crucial, especially with sovereignty threats from figures like Trump. Canada needs a strong leader who will stand up with maturity and decorum to protect our values. The decisions we make today will shape the future, not just for us, but for my niece and nephew, and generations to come. I believe in collaboration, diverse ideas, and the power of meaningful dialogue. As your representative, I will listen, engage in thoughtful discussions, and advocate passionately for Delta. I’m committed to creating a future where our communities are safe, supported, and where everyone is treated with dignity. Delta deserves a strong voice in Ottawa, and I am the candidate to fight for you.
11. What is the most important issue facing voters this election, and what should be done about it? While many important issues need attention, building a strong economy must come first, especially with the threat posed by Trump and his tariffs. A strong economy will lower prices, increase supply, and reduce costs for businesses and consumers. Strong business communities are essential to vibrant communities, and supporting small businesses — who employ 47% of Canada’s workforce — ensures local growth and job security for families and neighbors. A healthy economy will also enable us to build more housing, expand our armed forces, and invest in vital services and infrastructure. We also can strengthen our social supports for underrepresented sectors like Indigenous communities, seniors, and persons with disabilities.
Mark Carney, with his extensive economic expertise, will lead Canada in enhancing our internal and external trade relationships, and focus on building our Canadian economy. Under his leadership, we’ve removed the consumer carbon tax, proposed a middle-class tax cut, and committed to building 500,000 homes annually. We’re ready to cut red tape, boost innovation, and diversify our trading partners to protect Canada from external pressures. By prioritizing Canadian-built products and strengthening infrastructure, we will ensure Canadians keep more money in their pockets, bolster our economy, and secure a prosperous future for all.
12. Describe one concrete action you plan to take for Delta within your first year in office: In my first year in office, after voting to permanently eliminate the consumer carbon tax to reduce costs for workers, I will convene a series of roundtables with Delta’s diverse business community. These sessions will focus on tariff impacts, workforce challenges, transportation opportunities, and strategies to boost local economic resilience. By engaging directly with businesses across sectors, we’ll identify ways to support local jobs and ensure our economy thrives — making Delta the best place to live, work, and play. Mark Carney’s visit to a Delta manufacturing business on April 8 showcased the innovation in our community and the critical role Delta businesses can play in a clear, forward-thinking plan. At a time when strong leadership is essential on the global stage, Canada needs someone who can stand up to Donald Trump and champion Canadian businesses, jobs, and a resilient economy.
13. Candidate bio: Jill McKnight was born and raised in Delta and holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurial Business from UVic. For 28 years, she owned South Coast Casuals in Ladner and worked with the Ladner Village Market for over 20 years. This taught her the importance of listening, building relationships, and community passion. Since 2021, Jill has served as Executive Director of the Delta Chamber of Commerce, advocating for local businesses and residents. A long-time community volunteer, Jill was President of the Ladner Business Association for five years. She has received the King Charles III Coronation Medal, Queen’s Jubilee Award, and 2019 Volunteer of the Year Award. As Delta grows, Jill McKnight is committed to advocating for sustainable growth, critical infrastructure, and supporting local businesses.
Three other candidates are vying to be Delta’s next MP: Delta Police officer Jessy Sahota with the Conservative Party, educator/entrepreneur Natasa Sirotic with the People's Party of Canada, and transit driver/cycling advocate Jason McCormick with the NDP. Click on their names to read their responses to the Reporter's questionnaire.
Voters will get two chances to hear directly from the candidates hoping to represent them in Parliament, with all-candidates meetings planned for the evening of Wednesday, April 16 at the North Delta Centre for the Arts (7 to 9 p.m., 1425 84th Ave.), and the afternoon of Monday, April 21 at Northside Community Church (2:30 to 4:40 p.m., 11300 84th Ave.).
Election day is Monday, April 28, with polls open for 12 hours (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.). Advanced voting is available from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, April 18 through Monday, April 21.
To find your polling station, check your voter information card or use Elections Canada’s online Voter Information Service.
For more information, or to register to vote, visit elections.ca.
