Ellis Ross Confronted

Terrace, BC – April 11, 2025

The Terrace Sportsplex was abuzz last night following the All Candidates Forum for Skeena-Bulkley Valley, but Conservative candidate Ellis Ross was notably absent from the stage. As the event concluded, Ross unexpectedly appeared at the venue, where he was met by a small group of frustrated attendees demanding answers for his no-show at the April 11 forum, hosted by the Terrace and District Chamber of Commerce.The forum, originally planned as a moderated discussion, pivoted to an unmoderated debate between NDP incumbent Taylor Bachrach and Christian Heritage Party candidate Rod Taylor after Liberal candidate Inderpal Dhillon, Green Party candidate Adeana Young, and Ross withdrew. While Bachrach and Taylor fielded questions on issues like assisted suicide and Gaza, some attendees felt the absence of other candidates, particularly Ross, left critical perspectives missing.

Confronted by a handful of residents as he arrived post-event, Ross explained his decision to prioritize visiting smaller communities in the sprawling Skeena-Bulkley Valley riding. “I’ve been focusing on places like Fort St James, and smaller Indigenous communities that often get overlooked,” he said. “Balancing their needs with events like debates is tough, especially with a riding this big and diverse.” Ross, a former BC United MLA and Haisla Nation Chief Councillor, emphasized that being an MP is “more than a job—it’s a life’s mission to better the lives of Skeena’s people. ”However, his explanation did little to quell the frustration of some attendees. “Debates are how we hear from everyone side by side,” said one resident, who asked not to be named. “Skipping this feels like you don’t care about democratic processes.”

Another attendee echoed the sentiment, arguing that Ross’s absence left them unable to compare his platform directly with others. The confrontation remained civil but tense, reflecting broader voter concerns about accessibility and engagement in the lead-up to the April 28 federal election. In response, Ross committed to attending all upcoming debates in the riding. He pointed to his record as MLA for Skeena from 2017 to 2024, highlighting his advocacy for economic development, resource projects, and Indigenous reconciliation. “I’ve worked hard for this region—fighting for jobs, infrastructure, and fairness,” he said. “I hear the frustration, and I’ll make sure I’m there to answer questions directly going forward.”The incident underscores the challenges of campaigning in a vast riding where candidates must juggle local expectations with broader outreach. Ross’s focus on smaller communities resonates with some, but his absence from the Terrace forum has sparked debate about priorities in a tight election race. As the campaign continues, voters will be watching to see if Ross follows through on his pledge to engage face-to-face at future events.The Terrace and District Chamber of Commerce noted that last night’s forum, despite the absences, drew a committed crowd eager to discuss the region’s future. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged as the election approaches, with more opportunities to hear from candidates in the coming weeks

Kitimat Area has included the full, unedited video of Ellis Ross's appearance at the conclusion of the forum and his discussion with attendees.