Whitehorse, YT – Longtime Yukon businessman Mike Pemberton is officially seeking the Yukon Liberal Party leadership.
Pemberton, who has spent more than 30 years working in the private sector says his real-world experience and deep community ties make him well positioned to lead the territory through its next chapter.
He has served on various boards including Yukon Energy, Yukon Development Corporation and the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce.
“I know how business works, and I understand the challenges that families and workers face,” said Pemberton in a statement. “And I know we’ll need strong partnerships – with public servants, with the federal government, and most importantly, with Yukoners – to move forward together.”
He pointed to key issues like affordability, housing and access to healthcare during a time of “immense challenge,” and said his campaign will focus on building partnerships with the government, communities and Yukoners to address them.
Pemberton has also pledged to launch a territory-wide community safety program on day one if elected leader and called for increases to the northern living allowance to reflect the high cost of living.
He emphasized the need for stronger infrastructure and housing investments and expressed support for First Nations procurement and responsible resource development.
Pemberton joins former Kwanlin Dun First Nation Chief Doris Bill in the race. The Yukon Liberal Party will elect a new leader on June 19.
