Chambers hopes third time is a charm running federally in Oxford

Matthew Chambers is running for the NDPs in Oxford for the third time federally. (Contributed photo)

Lee Griffi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Matthew Chambers is a lifelong Oxford resident and a two-time former federal candidate having run in both the 2019 and 2021 elections for the New Democratic Party.

He is a director at large and regular volunteer at Stich Supper Club in Ingersoll, an active member of the Zorra Caledonian Society and a member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 119. He also holds a 3rd degree Black Belt in Karate and teaches it in Thamesford.

“I come from a strong working-class family, my dad being a long-distance truck driver and my mom has worked several jobs, including being a home daycare provider. I work as a custodian for the Thames Valley District School Board, and I am a proud member of CUPE Local 4222.”

Chambers admitted getting involved in politics wasn't something he envisioned for himself when he was younger, but he developed an interest in the latter part of his high school career when he took civics.

“I joined the NDP in 2017, from there I became a member of the Riding Association executive. For me, being involved in politics is about having the opportunity to serve the community. Public service has always been an important aspect of my life.”

There is no shortage of issues in this election and Chambers highlighted three he feels are important.

“Homelessness and access to affordable housing are serious issues for our communities. I believe that all levels of Government have a responsibility to work collaboratively to find solutions. In Oxford, ensuring the growth and security of our manufacturing and agriculture sectors is paramount.”

He added Canada’s public healthcare system needs protection from privatization and Americanization, while continuing to expand Medicare to fully cover dental care, prescriptions, vision and hearing care, and mental health care.

Chambers explained he is concerned about how the illegal trade war started by the US could affect Oxford residents financially.

“I have family members involved in industries affected by CUSMA and we need to implement protections, tax relief and strengthen EI benefits for all affected workers. I would work collaboratively with municipal governments on all issues that crossover into federal jurisdiction and advocate for our communities by proposing or supporting legislation that benefits Oxford.”

Chambers explained he isn’t coming into the campaign with a degree in law or political science and he isn’t running to cross something off his bucket list before he retires.

“What I am bringing to this campaign is the lived experience of someone who has had to work multiple jobs to get by someone who has had to make to tough choices like putting of dental work or waiting for sales to get groceries.”

He added what he wants is for people to stop accepting things as they are and not accept another Liberal or Conservative government.

“We are worth more, and we deserve better and better is possible, but only when we decide to make it happen.”