Incumbent Timiskaming-Cochrane MPP NDP John Vanthof Seeks Re-election in Upcoming Provincial Election

By Andrew Hopkins

John Vanthof, the incumbent MPP for Timiskaming-Cochrane, is seeking re-election in the upcoming provincial election. He shared that his interest in local politics has always been strong, but he had little desire to engage in partisan politics.

“I was President of the Temiskaming Federation of Agriculture when the City of Toronto tried to dump its garbage in Adam’s Mine,” Vanthof explained. “I played a key role in stopping the project on behalf of the farmers I represented. As a result, the owner of the site launched legal action against me, and we nearly lost our farm. I ran for MPP to get the company to drop the lawsuit. I lost that election, but the lawsuit was dropped. When the longtime incumbent Liberal MPP announced his retirement, I decided to run again.”

Vanthof listed his top three priorities for the election: highway safety, access to healthcare (especially doctors and mental health services), and making life more affordable.

He stressed that Northerners have legitimate concerns about highway safety.

“The accident statistics support their fears,” he noted. “Many commercial truck drivers are inadequately trained for our conditions, yet they somehow hold an Ontario commercial driver’s license.”

Vanthof and his NDP colleagues have consistently raised concerns about highway safety in the legislature, but the government has only taken half measures.

“It became clear that we needed to bring more public attention to this issue to force the government—whoever that may be—to act,” Vanthof explained. “As a result, we launched a consultation process involving stakeholders like tow truck companies and driving schools. That process generated interest across the province, and based on that input, we published The Northern Highway Safety Strategy.”

If re-elected, Vanthof plans to promote the Northern Highway Safety Strategy throughout the North and build a coalition that will force the government to take action.

When asked what sets him apart from his opponents, Vanthof pointed out that he is the only candidate who has successfully challenged the government and won.

“I have the experience and track record to get things done for Timiskaming-Cochrane,” he said. “I’ve worked with other ministers to address different issues.”

Vanthof also emphasized his strong connection with the community.

“I am one of the few MPPs who has all of my staff located in the riding to stay connected with constituents. We operate three offices, including one in Kirkland Lake. Throughout my time as a candidate and MPP, I’ve never refused a media interview or declined to attend a debate,” he said. “We regularly hold open houses, and I make it a point to attend as many local events as possible to remain accessible.”

Vanthof elaborated on how MPPs’ offices often handle casework.

“We try to help where we can, but sometimes cases fall outside our scope or there’s no provincial program to assist,” he said. “In those situations, I personally call the constituent with the news.”

He believes in focusing on areas of agreement and building from there.

“The highway safety issue is a good example. Regardless of political views, we can hopefully all agree on the importance of this issue.” Vanthof added, “I take the same approach with ministers. I hold them accountable, but I never make it personal. I have good relationships with most ministers and always give credit where credit is due. I worked closely with the Minister of Municipal Affairs to resolve the Municipal Council crisis in Black River-Matheson. We trusted each other.”

When asked about his plans to improve the lives of everyday residents, Vanthof said the biggest impact an MPP can have is helping constituents navigate provincial government policies, both locally through constituency offices and at Queen’s Park.

He provided a recent example: “I asked the Minister of Health for a list of hotels where residents could rent rooms for $100 a night, which is the compensation amount for the Northern Health Travel Grant. She couldn’t provide an answer, and shortly after that question, the Northern Health Travel Grant was revised.”

Looking ahead, Vanthof noted that Kirkland Lake has undergone significant change in recent years.

“At one point, there were no mining jobs, and now we have more jobs than people to fill them. The challenge is providing services like healthcare and education so that people will stay here,” he said. “It’s not the lack of jobs holding us back—it’s the lack of services for the families of those who could fill those jobs. The ability to provide those services and housing will determine where we are five years from now.”

As voters head to the polls, Vanthof’s message to constituents is clear: he has been a strong and dedicated MPP for Timiskaming-Cochrane since 2011.

“I’ve always spoken up for the people I represent, putting them before the party. I’m asking for your support, but more importantly, I’m asking you to vote and make your voice heard.”

The election takes place on February 27th.