Green Party leader wins nomination in B.C. riding

Updated: Sat Sep. 19 2009 16:54:22 ctvbc.ca

Green Party leader Elizabeth May clinched her party's nomination in the Saanich-Gulf Islands riding Saturday. The win pits her against Conservative incumbent Gary Lunn in the next election. "It is so heartening to receive such an overwhelming vote of confidence from the grassroots of our membership," May said in a statement. "I am ready to get on with the real campaign - to win a seat in parliament."

If May runs in the Saanich-Gulf Islands riding, it will be her third attempt to enter the House of Commons.She previously ran in 2006 in Ontario, and also in 2008, when she surprised most observers by running in the Nova Scotia riding held by Conservative heavyweight Peter MacKay.May has been criticized for her decision to run in the riding, and her only Green Party rival for the nomination has lodged a formal complaint with Elections Canada.

Stuart Hertzog has accused his party's leader of an illegal transfer of funds and of using the party's resources to May's advantage.Elections Canada has requested more information before proceeding with an investigation. The Greens have yet to elect a Member of Parliament. While they have increased their share of the popular vote under May's leadership, many are speculating that the next federal election is a must-win for May in order for her to keep her job.