Tri-Cities Federal Election 2025 Candidate: Ron McKinnon, Coquitlam–Port Coquitlam

Tri-Cities Community Television met with Ron McKinnon, incumbent Member of Parliament and candidate for the Liberal Party in the riding of Coquitlam–Port Coquitlam, as part of our federal election interview series.

Geneviève Lefebvre – Initiative de journalisme local

A long-time resident of the Tri-Cities, McKinnon has called the community home for over 30 years. Having raised his two daughters here, he brings a deep-rooted understanding of local needs and priorities to his work in Ottawa. After nearly a decade in Parliament, he says the job is far from over. “There’s so much more work to do,” McKinnon stated. “And I’m ready and keen to get that done.”

Central to McKinnon’s platform is a commitment to tackling Canada’s housing crisis. With strong support for the Housing Accelerator Fund—already delivering $25 million to Coquitlam and $10 million to Port Coquitlam—he emphasized the need for intergovernmental collaboration. Under the leadership of new Liberal leader Mark Carney, McKinnon envisions doubling the country’s housing construction pace to 500,000 units annually, exploring innovative approaches including prefab construction and leveraging Crown land.

His approach to infrastructure and transit remains community-focused. He pointed to the federal government’s $1.6 billion investment in SkyTrain’s Langley expansion as a critical step toward improving regional mobility and reducing congestion. “Higher density is not just necessary—it’s an opportunity to build smarter and greener,” he said.

Beyond policy, McKinnon highlighted the importance of civic relationships. He maintains close ties with municipal and provincial leaders, helping secure funding and advocating for local needs. Whether it’s working on grant applications for pumping stations or championing seniors through programs like New Horizons, McKinnon sees his role as a bridge between Ottawa and the day-to-day realities of his constituents.

Speaking passionately about youth involvement, McKinnon encouraged young residents to get active during the election. “The younger, the better,” he said. “Democracy grows stronger when people get involved early.” Programs like the Canada Summer Jobs initiative, he added, offer youth valuable exposure to civic and professional environments.

Looking to the future, McKinnon spoke with optimism about the Tri-Cities’ potential under a refreshed Liberal leadership. He expressed strong support for Mark Carney’s environmental and economic vision, particularly plans to expand national parks and urban green spaces to support mental well-being and environmental sustainability.

“If I could say one thing to my constituents,” McKinnon concluded, “it’s that I’m excited by what’s ahead. We’ve made progress, but with this new vision, we can do even more… and I’m here for it.”