Kelvin Kotchilea to campaign for N.W.T. federal seat

Kelvin Kotchilea has announced he will run again for a federal seat as the NDP candidate in the Northwest Territories. He is from Behchokǫ̀ and previously lost the 2021 federal election to Liberal MP Michael McLeod. During that campaign, he hinted at a potential future run. Now, Kotchilea believes he has a good chance to win. In a recent interview, he mentioned that he feels confident this time around. With two past elections experience, he believes many people in the Northwest Territories now recognize his name. Kotchilea had previously run unsuccessfully for the Monfwi riding in a territorial election in 2021. The next federal election is expected to be called on Sunday. Kotchilea has a long history of working with the territorial government, spending 14 years in the department of Environment and Climate Change. He is currently the recycling program coordinator for waste reduction management. He identified key issues for the territory, including the high cost of living and infrastructure challenges. Kotchilea aims to secure more federal funding for the Mackenzie Valley Highway, clean energy projects, and housing. He expressed frustration that the necessary infrastructure to support the North is still lacking in 2025. Kotchilea is eager to meet voters in person this campaign, which he could not do much during his previous run due to the pandemic. He wants to hear opinions on the federal government's shortcomings. He reflected on past promises related to housing and education that have not been fulfilled. He also noted the lasting impact of residential schools on the community. Kotchilea expressed a desire to see positive changes for the North, stating, "I want to see the North strong and prosperous." Other candidates announced for the N.W.T. include Liberal Rebecca Alty, Conservative Kimberly Fairman, and Green Angela Davidson.