About Nello Altomare
When were you born?
Between 1946 and 1965 (Baby Boomer)
Tell our readers a bit about your professional life. What do you do for a living? If you're an incumbent candidate, what did you do before you entered politics?
I was elected as the MLA for Transcona in 2019. Before entering politics, I was a teacher and Principal in the legacy school division of Transcona Springfield and then the River East Transcona School Division.
What's the highest level of education you've attained?
Master's degree
How long have you lived in the constituency? If you don't currently live there, what led you to run there instead of where you live?
I was born and raised in Transcona and have lived here my whole life.
What is the biggest challenge facing your constituency, and how would you address it?
The biggest challenge facing the constituency of Transcona are timely access to healthcare services, a shortage of personal care home space, a shortage of licensed childcare space and affordability/cost of living.
If elected, what will be your first priority?
The first priority would be to address affordability; that’s why the MB NDP will freeze your hydro rates and cut the gas tax so that we can help families deal with the rising cost of living.
Who are your role models in politics, and why?
My role models in politics are Bill Blaikie, Carol Fletcher and Jeff Cook. Bill, like me, was a Transcona kid; born raised and educated in our little part of the world. Bill cared passionately about the working person and was tireless in his advocacy for social justice and environmental protection. Carol and Jeff continue to teach me about the importance of community - to engage in community efforts and to ensure no one is left behind. Both are well known for the phrase, “all are welcome at this table.” The importance of this statement cannot be understated, especially now.
Tell us something about yourself that voters might find surprising.
I’ve had some health challenges in my life. One of my heart valves was replaced with a mechanical device in 2007.
Ten days before the election in 2019, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma and immediately entered into chemotherapy after being sworn
in as the MLA for Transcona. My family and I are truly grateful to the many health professionals that have helped me surmount these challenges.
Other candidates in constituency:
Titi Tijani (Progressive Conservative)
Arthur Bloomfield (Liberal)