What Sydney, N.S. wants from their political leaders in the next federal government

Paul Hollingsworth is in Sydney, Nova Scotia where U.S. President Trump's annexation threats have become a major concern among voters.

SYDNEY, N.S. — As part of CTV News’ coverage of the 37-day federal election, journalists will be telling stories from communities across the country to showcase issues that matter to Canadians in this election. Our next dispatch is from CTV News reporter Paul Hollingsworth in Sydney, N.S.

In picturesque Sydney, N.S., people take pride in their way of life, which includes a steady tourism industry, thriving seafood, manufacturing, technology and innovation sectors and a strong tradition of post-secondary education at Cape Breton University and the Nova Scotia Community College.

There’s also always time for a fun night out.

At the Governor’s Pub and Eatery, Tuesday was open mic night. As customers belted out tunes, they shared opinions about what matters most to them in this election campaign.

“Whether it’s housing or groceries at the grocery store, that type of thing,” said Allison Boutilier, who plans on voting in the upcoming election.

Pub owner Ardon Mofford hopes the next federal government kills the carbon tax, which he believes is killing business.

“Everything costs so much more, and there has to be a threshold where our consumers are going to stop purchasing the products,” said Mofford, who added tackling inflation, must be the top priority post election.

For nurse Pedro Carepa, one issue that is top of mind is healthcare.

“Canadians don’t have access to the healthcare that they deserve, hospitals are closed, and people have to drive out of their way to access basic healthcare,” said Carepa.

Another hot topic: The Canada-USA trade war and a major threat that is lurking south of the border.

“Trump!” said voter Lynn Moore, who also said believes Donald Trump has sparked a reaction in Canada. Patriotism is surging and the winner of this election must find a way to way build even more unity across Canada.

“I think it’s great now that we’ve become more patriotic,” said Moore. “We should worship our country.”

“Oh my gosh it is managing Trump,” added Tim Brodie, who served 30 years in the Canadian military.

A trade war sparked by Trump has reminded Brodie that loyalty and service to his country are the things that still matter the most.

“We have to step up again,” said Brodie, who hopes the winner of the next federal election helps navigate Canadians through these troubling times.