The Green party has found its federal candidate for Simcoe North.
During a meeting Sunday at Autumn’s Diner in Coldwater, approximately 25 members cast their votes. In the end, Erik Schomann was chosen, defeating Mathew Lund.
“We’re happy to have him as our candidate,” said Alec Adams, CEO of the Greens’ Simcoe North Electoral District Association.
Schomann’s experience as a communications studies teacher at Seneca College as well as his world travels over the years will serve him and Simcoe North residents well, Adams said.
“He’s got a global view and experience. It’s good for anybody to have an understanding of situations around the world,” he said.
Schomann’s father worked on large engineering projects around the world, exposing Schomann to many cultures and languages and giving him a respect for Indigenous cultures.
As an adult, he worked in China for 10 years and is fluent in English, German, Mandarin and French.
Adams described Schomann, of Tiny Township, as “a moderate guy.”
“He’s a thoughtful person,” Adams said. “We live in interesting times, so we need more politicians who understand the bigger picture.”
OrilliaMatters will be interviewing Schomann. Keep an eye out for that story later this week.
— With files from Jessica Owen