Goldstream News Gazette Interview

2025 - 04 - 03

Goldstream News Gazette Interview With Blair Herbert

Grandkids inspire Cowichan-Malahat-Langford Liberal candidate to give back

Author: Ben Fenlon

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Article Originally appeared in Goldstream Gazette, 2025 - 04 - 03

When asked what the inspiration is for his federal election campaign, Cowichan-Malahat-Langford Liberal candidate Blair Herbert has one answer: his seven grandkids.

The environmentally conscious grandfather wants to use his platform to help create a better world for the grandkids who range in age from eight months to 15.

“Basically lots of stuff that my wife Karen and I do is motivated by them,” he says.

But that’s not to say the adults should do all the work, Herbert believes it is important the youngsters are encouraged to take action too. By making changes in his life, both big and small gestures, Herbert hopes to show them the path forward.

“I’ve bought an electric car, we’re also putting solar on our farm … I say no to bags and straws in shops … we’re trying to show them this is going to be normal at some point,” he says. “Everybody is in a position to do something.”

This year’s election will be his third run for the Liberals. He previously ran in the 2019 and 2021 federal elections. “Third time’s the charm,” says Herbert with a laugh.

Similar to his previous two campaigns, the environment, housing shortage and health care ride high on Herbert’s list of issues he feels are important to the riding. Issues he hopes won’t be overshadowed by the controversy south of the border.

Donald Trump is not the only problem that we have … he is the main focus because I think he keeps lots of people awake at night, but there are other issues as well for sure

Blair Herbert, Cowichan-Malahat-Langford Federal Riding Liberal Candidate

“Donald Trump is not the only problem that we have … he is the main focus because I think he keeps lots of people awake at night, but there are other issues as well for sure,” says Herbert.

Ultimately, running for election is another way Herbert feels he can give back to his community. “You’re raising your hand, saying, ‘OK, I’ll put myself forward for this.'”

Herbert points to a wealth of life experience, which he says helps him find common ground with all walks of life. He grew up a military kid, raised four children, and has worked as a Mountie and an investigator for the ombudsman’s office.

“That’s experience that you can’t read in a book,” says Herbert. “So I think I can relate better, as opposed to somebody that comes out of university and lands themselves in the House of Commons with a big salary.”

Now a business owner with two real estate offices in Duncan and Salt Spring Island, Herbert also juggles a busy home life on his farm in Duncan complete with a menagerie of animals and crops.

“We never have a had a day where we don’t have anything on the go,” he says.

If he wasn’t busy enough, Herbert still finds time to pursue other interests. A motorcycle fan since he was a teenager, Herbert owns a Honda Gold Wing. He also plays acoustic guitar, joining local groups for weekend jamming sessions.

“My wife bought me a guitar in 2008, a little bit late in life to learn, but it’s brought huge pleasure to to my life,” he says. “Maybe you can teach an old dog new tricks.”