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Tess

@tessafranklin.bsky.social
184 followers 34 following 7 posts

Political staffer. Helping good people fight the good fight.

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Reposted by Tess
Dave @allcaps.bsky.social · 28/08/2026
Surprise guest at MORKAPALOOZA tonight. I guess some people venture into the core after 5! Had a lovely time talking with Jeff Leiper tonight. Leiper is not my councilor (anymore) but I hope he’s my Mayor soon. Shirt is my own.
David Hicks and Jeff Leiper at The Manx.
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Jeff Leiper @jleiper.bsky.social · 29/08/2026
To the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Ottawa, let me be clear: I will always have your back. À la communauté 2ELGBTQ+ d'Ottawa, soyez clair : je vous soutiendrai toujours.
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 23/08/2026
Danielle Smith says Canada should “get a deal done.” But Canadians know that no deal is better than a bad deal. Canadian workers, communities and languages are not bargaining chips. Now the government needs to stand firm, protect good jobs, support workers and defend what makes Canada Canada.
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Jeff Leiper @jleiper.bsky.social · 23/08/2026
I was in Queenswood Heights, Bel-Air, at Greek Fest, Irish Society open house, Apt613 in Chinatown, Capital Fair and then Nat joined some of the team and I at Spark to enjoy the Hip rebroadcast. Amazing day - thanks to everyone who took the time to chat at the doors and events.
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Jeff Leiper @jleiper.bsky.social · 13/08/2026
This Saturday we're bringing our Transit That Works campaign to communities across Ottawa. Sign up below to join me. Kanata: bit.ly/4qd0V0S Old Ottawa East: bit.ly/4wsJ1bT Orléans: bit.ly/4wi6tZd
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Jeff Leiper @jleiper.bsky.social · 13/08/2026
This Saturday I'll be at Taproom260 in Orléans at 6 PM for a Pints & Politics, I hope I'll see you there! RSVP here: leiper2026.ca/tdoa
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Jeff Leiper @jleiper.bsky.social · 19/07/2026
I had a great time at the Lebanese Festival today! Every year, over 400 volunteers come together to make this possible. A big thank you to everyone who helped organize this incredible celebration. Events like this are what bring our city together.
Jeff taking a photo with volunteers at the Lebanese FestivalJeff with Councillor Brockington at the Lebanese FestivalJeff talking with volunteers at the Lebanese Festival
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Ariel Troster @arieltroster.bsky.social · 11/04/2026
The Minto Park Sale is back! Centretown’s garage sale for people without garages is always a huge hit, a tradition started by the great Diane Holmes. Saturday, June 6. 9am-3pm. Visit arieltroster.com/MPS2026 to book your table.
Minto Park Sale 
Saturday, June 6, 9am-3pm
Minto Park

To request a table, visit ArielTroster.com/2026
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Ariel Troster @arieltroster.bsky.social · 03/04/2026
The latest issue of the Somerset Ward newsletter is out, with reflections on the value of public delegations, as well as info on the Minto Park Sale, the Plant Your Place program, garbage pickup changes, and more! Read it and sign up here: www.arieltroster.com/swm_68
Screen shot from the newsletter
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 30/03/2026
To our incredible volunteers. Our tireless campaign staff. My family, who gave so much of themselves to this. And every one of you who contributed, in whatever way you could. Thank you. No matter how you engaged with this race, thank you for being part of it.
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Ariel Troster @arieltroster.bsky.social · 12/03/2026
ANCHOR is expanding! I am so proud of this amazing program that started in Centretown. In June, residents in the Byward Market, Sandy Hill, Lowertown, Vanier, Overbrook and Lees will have access this incredible 24/7 service that responds to mental health and substance use crises.
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 11/03/2026
I’m sad to see Lori leave our caucus. The work ahead of us doesn’t change. Listening, showing up, reaching beyond our base and building real relationships is how we’ll rebuild the trust and support we need to win. I'm committed to doing that work. www.heathermcpherson.ca/_statement_o...
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 09/03/2026
Scenes from Iran today are apocalyptic. Toxic rain. Burning streets. Oil depots and desalination plants hit. (1/5)
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 04/03/2026
Cities deliver services we all rely on every day, but the federal government is asking them to do more with less. Let’s fix that.
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Jeff Leiper @jleiper.bsky.social · 02/03/2026
Friends and neighbours gathered at the Carleton Tavern this afternoon to share stories and reminisce on our memories of Paulette Dozois. She was a mentor and friend, and I miss her. Her spirit lives on in her community and in my heart.
A sign on the door of the Carleton Tavern directs people to the gathering upstairs / Une pancarte sur la porte de la taverne Carleton indique aux gens où se déroule le rassemblement à l'étage.Paulette and Jeff pose for a photo / Paulette et Jeff posent pour une photo
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Ariel Troster @arieltroster.bsky.social · 25/02/2026
The chair of the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee thinks it’s “wasting people’s time” for me to submit an inquiry to city staff about the pedestrian safety issues that impact Centretown residents. That’s the job, Tim. See you at committee tomorrow.
According to statistics from Gonthier, less than 20 percent of collisions involving cyclists and four percent of collisions involving pedestrians at intersections in Ottawa between 2019 and 2022 are later to right turns on reds. 

For Coun. Tierney, who is the chair of the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee, road safety is along his top priorities. He is glad the data is supporting what we already know.

“I’m glad we can turn the page on tis and focus on the other important issues in our city. If the councillor really feels that strong about it, table a motion about it, because you are wasting people’s time with this house.”
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Ariel Troster @arieltroster.bsky.social · 25/02/2026
Earlier today, the same councillor tried to stop me from finishing my sentence at a council meeting. On the same day he wore a pink shirt to supposedly combat bullying. This is conduct unbecoming of the chair of a city committee. Let women politicians do our jobs.
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Ariel Troster @arieltroster.bsky.social · 23/02/2026
It is great news that the city is buying the hotel at Gladstone + O’Connor to use as transitional housing for families — many of whom are currently holed up in awful motel rooms. These suites have full kitchens and the building is close to schools, the Y and transit. www.ctvnews.ca/ottawa/artic...
ctvnews.ca
City of Ottawa to buy downtown hotel for $45 million
A report for the finance and corporate services committee recommends council approve the deal to purchase the eight-storey former long-term stay hotel at 377 O’Connor Street at Gladstone Avenue for $4...
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Ariel Troster @arieltroster.bsky.social · 21/02/2026
I am getting a lot of questions about what a building code violation is and if I have the power to provide an exemption. The answer is no. The building code is provincial law, it governs the things that keep people safe (like fire exits).
Photo of an article in the Centretown Buzz with the title, “Centretown social enterprise at risk over building permit issue.”
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Ariel Troster @arieltroster.bsky.social · 08/02/2026
I am so over this. Reminder to call 311 if you or someone you know needs a warm place to go. Full list of warming centres and cold weather resources from @ottawapublichealth.ca: www.ottawapublichealth.ca/en/public-he...
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 09/02/2026
Cutting EV targets and public transit isn’t climate action. It’s climate sabotage. With a real public transit plan, we can deliver better for people and the climate.
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Jeff Leiper @jleiper.bsky.social · 05/02/2026
A capital city needs a strong music and events workforce. Protect the Music Industry Arts program at Algonquin. #MIAMatters ottawamic.com/news/miamatt...
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 04/02/2026
Today is #WorldCancerDay. As a cancer survivor, I’m filled with gratitude for the doctors, nurses, researchers, and support staff who saved my life and save the lives of people every single day. (1/2)
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Jeff Leiper @jleiper.bsky.social · 04/02/2026
Thank you Mayor @andrewknack.bsky.social for dropping by briefly to talk with me about Edmonton's housing and zoning landscape and your upcoming term. I'll look forward to our next chance to meet!
Jeff poses for a photo with Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack.
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 26/01/2026
There is a lot on the line in this leadership election. We need to rebuild pur party with experience and vision. Be part of it. Renew or get your membership before January 28.
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 22/01/2026
Last week, I got to chat with Katy. She’s a rockstar volunteer on our campaign who signed up because she’s worried about her kids’ future and wants to be a part of changing it for the better. If you want join Katy, get your membership by January 28 so you can vote in the leadership election.
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 21/01/2026
There are only seven days left to get or renew your NDP membership. Don't miss your chance to vote, so we can build back our party together. www.HeatherMcPherson.ca/membership
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 18/01/2026
This men-only group of genocide deniers and war criminals includes no Palestinians and is designed to sideline the United Nations, erode international law and norms, and strip Palestinians of the most basic right any people have: to decide their own future. 2/4
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 18/01/2026
Donald Trump’s so-called "Board of Peace" is offensive. Mark Carney must reverse his decision to join Trump in this transparently colonial scheme. 1/4
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 17/01/2026
In caucus and in the House of Commons, Charlie always had my back. And it means so much that he still does. He’s never shied away from doing what’s right - even when it was hard. That’s part of what it means to be a New Democrat. It’s what we need to show people more of.
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Ariel Troster @arieltroster.bsky.social · 16/01/2026
You could be eligible for a rent reduction—no matter what your landlord says. Pass this on, especially if you or your friends live in a multi-residential building in Ottawa that is more than 15 years old.
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 16/01/2026
Make sure to renew or get your NDP membership before January 28th! www.heathermcpherson.ca/membership
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 14/01/2026
Since I was elected @charlieangus104.bsky.social has been a friend and mentor. He’s always had my back. He has given so much to our country. He’s a fierce advocate for working people and Indigenous communities and a generous friend. I’m truly honoured to have his endorsement. youtu.be/GH36u3ATqu0
youtu.be
Charlie Angus anounces his endorsement
YouTube video by Heather McPherson
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Tess @tessafranklin.bsky.social · 12/01/2026
It’s been awhile since I’ve been this excited about a town hall - counting down the days to Friday already!
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 10/01/2026
Across Canada, Conservative premiers are preemptively reaching for the notwithstanding clause. Using it to override rights instead of protecting them. We need to talk about what that means, who it harms, and how we stand up for the people being targeted, from workers rights to trans kids.
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Jeff Leiper @jleiper.bsky.social · 10/01/2026
Yesterday's memo on bus cancellations asserts hundreds of millions in new spending that at the end of the day has little to do with cancelled buses. Let's separate the spin from the solutions.
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Jeff Leiper @jleiper.bsky.social · 09/01/2026
Council will soon be voting on a new zoning by-law that adds greater density and focuses on 15-minute communities across Ottawa. I've been thinking a lot about growing up in Convent Glen in that context, and offer the following: www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_0R....
youtube.com
Growing up in Convent Glen's 15-minute community
YouTube video by Kitchissippi Ward
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 07/01/2026
Excited to welcome @charlieangus104.bsky.social back to Edmonton! Can’t wait for this conversation. I hope you’ll join us. RSVP at the link in my bio.
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Ariel Troster @arieltroster.bsky.social · 03/01/2026
Trust your employees and let them work in the place with they are happiest and most productive. I’m with Jeff on this one. Forced RTO is punitive and unfair.
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Heather McPherson MP @heathermcpherson.bsky.social · 02/01/2026
New year, same belief. People deserve a fair deal and a party that will fight for it. youtube.com/shorts/woQs2...
youtube.com
This is why I’m running
YouTube video by Heather McPherson
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Jeff Leiper @jleiper.bsky.social · 01/01/2026
I shoot probably a couple thousand pictures every year while I'm out and about. Here's 150ish that caught my eye while reviewing those from 2025. www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ed5Q...
youtube.com
2025 favs
YouTube video by Kitchissippi Ward
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Charlie Angus @charlieangus104.bsky.social · 23/12/2025
Check out this incredible Christmas carol from Billy Bragg. Reminding us what the true story is - a refugee family escaping state violence and promising the gift of peace. www.youtube.com/watch?v=cJas...
youtube.com
Billy Bragg, Put Christ back into Christmas, first public performance. 13.12.2025
YouTube video by e-lawresources
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Ariel Troster @arieltroster.bsky.social · 22/12/2025
So much of 2025 was a garbage fire, but the wonderful Bill Staubi found out his cancer is in remission. A patron of the arts and truly one of the kindest people I know. Couldn’t have happened to a better human. A miracle. www.cbc.ca/news/canada/...
cbc.ca
He gave away his art after learning he had 18 months to live. Now his cancer's in remission | CBC News
After Bill Staubi was diagnosed with terminal liver cancer, he was determined to find a home for his life's work: a 1,300-piece art collection, four decades in the making. But now that the cancer is i...
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Jeff Leiper @jleiper.bsky.social · 11/12/2025
We'll have a re-naming ceremony in the new year, but I wanted to share that the sign is now up at the field house on Van Lang. Thinking a lot about Paul lately, and glad we could do this.
New signage on the pavillon at 29 Van Lang shows it is now named the Paul Dewar field house / Une nouvelle signalétique sur le bâtiment situé au 29, rue Van Lang indique qu'il s'appelle désormais le Pavillon Paul Dewar.
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Ariel Troster @arieltroster.bsky.social · 11/12/2025
It’s not always easy to be a dissenting voice at City Council, with no opposition bench to support you. But I vote with my heart and represent what my residents are telling me they need. Proud to do this with @jleiper.bsky.social right there beside me at the table.
Selfie of Ariel and Jeff Leiper at the council table
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Ariel Troster @arieltroster.bsky.social · 11/12/2025
Today I brought a voice of dissent to the city budget vote. The residents of Somerset Ward are my boss: not the mayor and not other members of council. I know you want a city that works and that leaves no one behind. This budget missed the mark, so I voted against it. I will keep fighting for you.
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Jeff Leiper @jleiper.bsky.social · 11/12/2025
It’s past 8pm, and the 2026 draft budget has officially passed. But this year, I voted no. Throughout the last several months, I’ve spoken about the importance of building a budget that works for all of Ottawa.
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Jeff Leiper @jleiper.bsky.social · 05/12/2025
The ANCHOR program will get an additional $700,000 to expand to half of Kitchissippi. Other neighbourhoods are begging for it. It would be a far better use for $1 million.
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Jeff Leiper @jleiper.bsky.social · 04/12/2025
Both @arieltroster.com and I believe we need a budget that puts people first, that delivers reliable transit, safe communities and a city where everyone can afford to live and thrive. Add your name to tell City Council that we need a budget built for people: www.arieltroster.com/budget.
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