An overwhelming number of supporters turned up to launch Barrie-Springwater-Oro-Medonte Green Party candidate Marty Lancaster’s campaign on Sunday afternoon.
But the event didn’t take place at the federal candidate’s office at 15 Collier St., for an important reason.
“We couldn’t fit everybody in there,” Lancaster said with a laugh. “That office is packed with only 45 people.”
Nearly 100 people attended the launch at Mavricks Music Hall on Dunlop Street West on Sunday.
While Lancaster is no stranger to local politics, he said something is different this time around.
“The feeling at the door is so different. Four years ago, there was anger because of one person,” he said. “This time around, they say they’re really disappointed with both of them. They’re tired of all the noise.
“Last time, it was a protest vote. This time, we could really send a message to the rest of the country,” Lancaster added.
Lancaster spoke to many attendees who came to see if they could help as their own first forays into the local political scene.
“I want anyone who wants to be involved. I’m running this campaign quite differently,” he said. “Everybody who shows up, I ask them what they want to do. I allow people to volunteer how they want.
"People have jumped into all kinds of roles."
