An Orillia resident and Lakehead University student is hoping to run for the Simcoe North Liberals in the upcoming provincial election.
Aaron Cayden Hiltz is the only one seeking the local nomination for the party, which will hold a nomination meeting April 5.
Cayden Hiltz is studying political science and law at Lakehead’s Orillia campus.
“As a long-time education advocate, he has worked to address systemic issues of underfunding in colleges and universities as well as advocated for enhanced support for mental health initiatives in educational institutions,” the Simcoe North Liberals stated in a news release.
He has also “advocated for better support systems on the Lakehead campus and has provided research and insight to elected members of all levels of government on how to increase the quality of the post-secondary education system in Ontario.”
Cayden Hiltz sees finances as being a “main barrier” to accessing education and he “works to ensure that low-income students have a fair shot at getting a good education,” the party stated.
Adopted at 17, Cayden Hiltz spent time as a homeless youth.
“This unique experience has given Aaron a first-hand understanding of hardship and developed his passion for fighting against government policies that create income inequality and social inequality,” the release stated.
After high school, he spent time working for a recycling manufacturing company in Barrie, which led to a deeper understanding of environmental issues relating to waste production.
“He then decided that the roots of these systemic issues lay in negligence in government, and has since developed a passion for community representation.”
Cayden Hiltz’s family had a small farm just outside of Orillia, but he now lives near the downtown with his partner, Jasmine, and plans to raise a family here.
The provincial election will take place on or before June 2.
Elizabeth Van Houtte has been chosen to run for the Simcoe North NDP.
Candidates for the other parties have not been announced, although Simcoe North MPP Jill Dunlop has posted campaign photos on social media in recent days.
