Calgary’s incumbent Mayor Naheed Nenshi challenged his competitors to reveal who is funding their campaigns on nomination day.
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“I will not just encourage, but challenge every other candidate for every office to reveal the names of their donors before the election,” he said. “It is fundamental to democracy.
“Quite frankly, if you have not revealed the names of your donors, no one should vote for you.”
Long-time city councillor and current mayoral candidate Andre Chabot said he may reveal his entire list of donors, except those who want to remain anonymous.
“Out of respect for those individuals, and the same with citizens, I believe people deserve respect,” Chabot said. “And if they ask for it, I am willing to give it to them.”
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Bill Smith says he’ll cross that bridge when he gets to it.
“You know what? We haven’t even considered it. We will talk about that as we get closer and once we get some donations.”
Candidates are not legally obligated to disclose their donors before their election.
There have long been calls for election campaign reform in Calgary, including introducing spending caps.
A total of 131 candidates filed their intention to run for office Monday, which is up from 2013, according to a returning officer.
FULL COVERAGE: Calgary election 2017
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