Longtime harness racing industry participant and politician Hector Clouthier is once again running as an independent candidate in his home riding of Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke for Canada's federal election set for October 19.

"It seems to me many, many people are really ticked off with the federal system of government," said Clouthier in a statement. "They are upset because their local MP has no power to do anything because the leader's office dictates to their own party MPs. As an Independent the government cannot dictate to me, especially in a minority government where the governing party needs every vote to survive. They would need my support and to get it they will need to deliver some positives for the people I represent!"

Clouthier is no stranger to serving the people of this riding, having represented Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke on Parliament Hill as a Liberal from 1997 to 2000. He was then defeated, for reasons many attribute to toeing the party line. That defeat was a major factor in Clouthier's decision to run as an independent.

“As a former MP myself and as a Special Adviser in the PMO, I know the system inside and out, as well as the key players, be they Stephen Harper, Tom Mulcair, Justin Trudeau or Elizabeth May," Clouthier told The Pembroke Observer. "I also maintain strong, positive relations with top level bureaucrats, and these contacts will be a huge advantage in getting things done for Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke. There is no substitute for having access, and my access is your access.”

Clouthier's background in the harness racing industry includes on-track participation as well as a stint as the Executive Director of the Ontario Horse Racing Industry Association (OHRIA). Those ties have not been forgotten, and Clouthier is strong in his support and commitment to horse racing if elected.

"It is my intention that if I am elected to once again be a strong supporter of the horse racing industry in Ottawa and on the floor of the House of Commons," said Clouthier. "Horse racing has been a lifelong passion of mine and the entire Clouthier family. I will work hard to make sure on October 19th we are in the winner's circle."

Clouthier is one of six candidates in the running for Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke. The others include: Steve Fortin (Libertarian Party of Canada), Cheryl Gallant (Conservative Party of Canada), Stefan Klietsch (Green Party), Jeff Lehoux (Liberal Party of Canada), and Dan McCarthy (NDP).