In his own words: Kapuskasing-Timmins-Mushkegowuk Liberal candidate Steve Black

Liberal candidate Steve Black (Photo supplied)

Bio:

I’ve had the honour of serving the people of Timmins as both a city councillor and as mayor, and I’m proud of the work we accomplished together. From overseeing key municipal services like housing and paramedic services through the Cochrane District Social Services Board to chairing the Timmins Police Services Board, I’ve worked hard to deliver real results that make life better in our communities.

As mayor, I focused on economic development, infrastructure investment, improving quality of life and recreation opportunities, and strengthening partnerships between municipalities and industry.

Outside of public office, I’ve spent over 15 years working in Northern Ontario’s mining industry. I’m a professional engineer who began my career at Kidd Creek Mine, later managing expansion projects and eventually becoming Manager of Business Development, Marketing, and Community Relations with Dumas Contracting. I know firsthand how critical the resource sector is to our region—not just for jobs and growth, but for our future. I also understand the need to balance that growth with environmental responsibility and Indigenous partnerships.

My roots in this region run deep. As a student, I came north to build my career, raise my family, and serve my community. I’m running because I believe this region deserves a strong, experienced voice in Ottawa—someone who understands our unique challenges and won’t stop fighting for opportunity, infrastructure, and fairness for Northern communities.

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Most important issue:

The most important issue for our region is building a strong, self-reliant North—economically, socially, and politically. That means growing our resource economy through responsible development and ensuring Indigenous communities are true partners in that growth. Reconciliation must be rooted in action: real consultation, treaty respect, and shared opportunity. It also means standing up for Canadian sovereignty—fighting harmful U.S. tariffs and protecting our economy from foreign pressures. Mark Carney has the economic expertise to strengthen this country. I’ll bring my experience in mining, municipal leadership, and community partnerships to ensure the North is part of that future. This election is about ensuring our voice is heard in Ottawa and securing a better deal for our region that reflects our values and potential.

Door knocking: 

At the doors, people tell me they’re concerned about the economy and where Canada is headed. There’s real concern about our relationship with the U.S., and many are uneasy with the Conservatives’ growing ties to Trump-style politics. Voters are looking for steady, experienced leadership. I’m hearing from folks across the political spectrum who are leaning Liberal because they see this election as a choice between Mark Carney’s economic expertise and Pierre Poilievre’s career in partisan politics. People want stability, competence, and a government they can trust to protect Canada’s interests and stand up for Northern Ontario. It is clear from our conversations with residents across that riding that the leader they trust to do this is Mark Carney.

Why vote for me:

People should vote for me because I bring real experience and a balanced approach. I’ve served as mayor and city councillor and know how to get things done locally. I’m proud to be part of Team Carney—a team focused on economic stability, fairness, and building a stronger Canada. If you want someone who will sit at the government table and deliver for this riding, I’m that candidate. I’ll be a strong voice for Kapuskasing–Timmins–Mushkegowuk—not for the left or the right, but for everyone. My team includes people from all political backgrounds who believe in progress, respect, and results. I’ll work with anyone who wants to move our region forward, and I’ll always put the people of this riding first.

Tariffs:

I support Mark Carney’s approach: trade policy must protect Canadian workers and industries without escalating tensions. In Kapuskasing–Timmins–Mushkegowuk, sectors like mining, forestry, and manufacturing depend on stable trade relationships. Reckless tariffs and trade wars hurt our economy. We need smart, strategic leadership that defends local jobs while keeping markets open and predictable. We must decrease our reliance on the U.S. by building new trade relationships and strengthening our made-in-Canada economy.

 Housing: 

Housing affordability and homelessness are major concerns across our region. I support the Liberal plan and Mark Carney’s focus on using smart investment to build real supply. Programs like the Housing Accelerator Fund and the new Build Canada Homes initiative will help fast-track builds in communities like ours. We must unlock more affordable and mixed housing while investing in wraparound services to address homelessness. As your MP, I’ll fight to make sure Northern Ontario gets its fair share of funding and support to build homes people can afford.

 If I win:

We will not get ahead of ourselves here and share that on April 28th.   However, it would be one of the biggest honours of my life to represent the great people of Kapuskasing-Timmins-Mushkegowuk at Parliament.  Based on the feedback and conversations throughout the campaign so far, we are optimistic but understand there is much work left to be done. At this time, I will just say thank you to everyone who has volunteered, donated, or offered their support. Let’s bring it home and ensure Mark Carney is the next Prime Minister of Canada.

Final thoughts:

This election matters—not just for our riding, but for the country. What happens with U.S. tariffs, global trade, and the economy will directly impact key industries here in Northern Ontario. We need steady, experienced leadership to navigate this moment, and Mark Carney is the right person to lead Canada forward. He understands the economy better than anyone in the race.

The federal election offers one of two choices: a Mark Carney-led government with a calm, educated, experienced prime minister ready to bring the stability needed at this time or a Pierre Poilievre government focused on cutting services and giving tax breaks to the wealthy. People of all political backgrounds have told us that they believe Mark Carney is the only choice to move Canada forward.