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liberal party of canada

Candidate profile: Ayaz Bangash (LIB) – Red Deer

Apr 14, 2025 | 9:25 AM

This is a candidate profile for the April 28, 2025 federal election.

All candidates have been asked the same four questions, and were given a 600-word limit.

Responses are unedited for grammar and spelling, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of rdnewsNOW and Pattison Media.

Advance voting days are April 18, 19, 20 and 21. More info here.

1) Why are you running to be a Member of Parliament?

I’m running to be a Member of Parliament for Red Deer because I believe our community deserves a stronger voice in government. I’ve seen firsthand the challenges we face—whether it’s access to quality healthcare, affordable housing, or better opportunities for our youth—and I want to be part of the solution. I’m passionate about making politics work for everyday people, not just the well-connected. I will ensure our concerns are not only heard but acted upon.

2) Why should people vote for you, and what skills do you have that make you suitable for this role?

I have deep roots in the community and I have a unique understanding of Red Deer’s vibrant character. I genuinely care about making a positive impact and bringing real solutions to the table. I listen, I learn, and I act. I’m here to represent voices, solve problems, and build something better for everyone involved.

I bring 20 years of business experience, strong leadership , and community service experience and I have the ability to collaborate with a diverse range of stakeholders and constituents to ensure their voices are heard.

I have demonstrated commitment to public service and community involvement through my volunteer and community service work. I helped the Canadian Red Cross in several roles including moving into a leadership role in the People Services department.

3) What will you advocate for; and do you intend to fully toe the party line?

As a liberal candidate, I’d advocate for policies that promote individual freedoms, social justice, economic opportunity, and environmental sustainability. Some key areas include:

-Real solutions to affordability, especially around housing, healthcare access, and mental health services, which are urgent issues in both our city and rural areas.

– Equality and Inclusion: Advocating for equal rights for all, regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, or background.

– Infrastructure investment in Red Deer , including roads, healthcare facilities, and digital connectivity for rural areas.

– Support for our farmers and ranchers, who are the backbone of this region, including fair trade policies, climate-resilient infrastructure, and research funding.

– Economic diversification that builds on Alberta’s energy strengths while opening doors to clean tech, agriculture innovation, and small business growth.

I’d balance principled independence with party collaboration.

4) How do you believe Canada’s federal government should tackle its current predicament with the United States, and where do you sit on Canadian sovereignty?

Canada must stand firm against unjustified U.S. tariffs that harm Canadian industries and workers.

We need to reduce our dependence on U.S. markets by diversifying trade partners, expanding agreements with the EU, Indo-Pacific, and African nations.

We won’t hesitate to respond with measured, strategic counter-tariffs that protect Canadian industries while sending a clear signal that unfair trade practices won’t go unanswered.

Canadian sovereignty is non-negotiable and we believe in cooperation, not submission.

We will invest in our military, cybersecurity, and economy to strengthen Canada’s ability to stand independently on the global stage.

Canada should continue to lead at the World Trade Organization (WTO).

We work together, but we don’t surrender our values or autonomy.

Canada Strong

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