Stephanie Allen, the mayoral candidate for the Coalition of Progressive Electors (COPE) in Vancouver, has officially withdrawn from the municipal election race.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Allen emphasized the importance of uniting progressive voters to support a single challenger against incumbent Mayor Ken Sim. She highlighted the urgency for progressive parties to rally together and increase their chances of electing a new mayor.
Expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to represent COPE, Allen stated, “It has been an honor to stand as the mayoral candidate for a party with a rich history of advocating for the disadvantaged in our city.” Despite ending her mayoral campaign, Allen reaffirmed her commitment to the movement and the people of Vancouver.
Previously, COPE, OneCity, and the Vancouver Greens had agreed to cooperate in reducing the number of progressive mayoral candidates to prevent vote-splitting and enhance the likelihood of unseating Sim.
Encouraging her fellow candidates to follow suit, Allen asserted, “We must prioritize the greater good of Vancouver over our individual ambitions.”
Nate Stanley, COPE co-chair, praised Allen’s decision, emphasizing its positive impact on the party’s broader mission to elect progressive representatives in Vancouver.
Meanwhile, COPE co-chair Sam Smart commended Allen for her leadership and underscored the significance of putting the interests of Vancouver residents first.
To further their cause, COPE has initiated an online campaign encouraging residents to engage with mayoral candidates, voice their support for a unified progressive front, and advocate for a collaborative approach in the upcoming election.
