In this edition of Journal, I would like you to meet a rather unusual politician – mayor Brad West of Port Coquitlam.

In my life in politics and journalism, I have met a lot of politicians, most of whom are decent people trying to do a good job. But once in a while, an individual stands out.

At 23, Brad was the youngest Councillor elected to Port Coquitlam city council, where he served three terms. In his first run for mayor, he received 86% of the vote – that’s practically unheard of. And for his second run, he was acclaimed. It was the first time ever that a mayoralty candidate was acclaimed in the City.

So obviously, he was successful from a very young age. But what interests me the most is what one commentator named as his “truth-telling.” Brad West tends to say the things many people are thinking, but don’t say aloud.

It is refreshing to hear a politician move off his briefing notes to express his thoughts or criticisms without worrying about any controversy that might ensue. He has an opinion on Riverview, decriminalization, and even China, for heaven’s sake! And even though his roots are firmly in the labour movement, he has criticized the NDP’s move towards what he calls “identity politics.”

People would like to pigeonhole him and say he is left-wing or right-wing, this party or that party. But so far, it hasn’t worked. Despite being asked by different political parties to run with them, he has so far declined.

Busy and happy as mayor of Port Coquitlam, Brad West also chairs Translink’s Mayors’ Council, as well as chairing Metro Vancouver’s Finance Committee.

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