Surrounded by young and long term supporters, Todd Smith watched the results come in for the Bay of Quinte riding, in the Bellevile Club in last night’s provincial election.
With 86,265 registered voters, the Bay of Quinte riding includes the City of Prince Edward, City of Quinte West and that part of the City of Belleville lying southerly of Highway 401.
At 9:17, Todd Smith (PC) was predicted to win the riding easily as the polls within the riding began submitting their individual results. Smith jumped out to an early lead, with 25% of the ballots counted by that time.
Six candidates were running in this riding, Erica Charlton (GRN), Rob Collins (New Blue), Alison Kelly (NDP), Emilie Leneveu (LIB), Noah Wales (Ontario) and incumbent candidate Todd Smith.
With 87 polls, and 43,315 total votes cast in the Bay of Quinte Riding, Todd Smith wins with 49.3% of the vote (21,351 votes). He was followed in the race as follows:
· Alison Kelly (NDP)– 9,058 votes or 20.9%
· Emilie Leneveu (LIB) – 7,997 votes or 18.5 %
· Erica Charlton (GRN)– 2,719 votes or 6.3%
· Rob Collins (New Blue)– 1,128 votes or 2.6%
· Noah Wales (Ontario) – 1,062 votes or 2.5%
Serving for 11 years, Todd Smith was most recently the Minister of Energy and would be open to returning to this cabinet position, if Premier Ford chooses him again.
With his wife Tawnya and daughters Payton & Reagan at this side, Todd thanked his supporters and especially his campaign manager, for all their efforts on the campaign trail.
“I am originally from New Brunswick, but I have to say, I am so proud to represent the riding of the Bay of Quinte, it’s the best place to live.”
(Written by: Alicia Vandine)
