Rose Zacharias cites need for strong leadership in uncertain times

Local physician and former provincial Liberal candidate Rose Zacharias is once again asking for the support of voters — this time on the federal stage. Citing concerns over economic uncertainty and a need for steady leadership, Zacharias is running for the Liberal Party of Canada in the riding of Barrie—Springwater—Oro-Medonte.

Zacharias, a family doctor who has lived in the community for more than 20 years, says her decision to return to politics stems from a deep sense of responsibility.

"As a physician in the community, I see firsthand how stress and mental health impact people's lives," Zacharias told Barrie 360. "Canada now needs an incredibly strong leader to face what we are being told will be an incredibly uncertain time."

Having previously run provincially, Zacharias believes her experiences both in medicine and on the campaign trail give her a unique perspective. She describes herself as a "people person wired for advocacy," and says that seeing systemic issues — particularly in healthcare — motivated her to step up.

"We still don't have enough family doctors, we still have way too long waits in the emergency department. That actually hasn't changed," she said. "Knowing what I can do to make a difference here made it make complete sense for me to seek the MP seat and advocate for our community."

A New Liberal Team Under Mark Carney

Zacharias is campaigning under the leadership of newly installed Liberal leader Mark Carney, the former Governor of both the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, who stepped into the role following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's departure.

Acknowledging that voters may have concerns about continuity within the Liberal Party, Zacharias stresses that Carney represents a significant shift.

"Mark Carney is not Justin Trudeau," she said. "He has a long view of what our former government did — both good and bad — and he's bringing principled decision-making and a focus on a more balanced budget and sustainable investments."

Zacharias points to Carney's international economic experience as a critical asset during what she calls a time of unprecedented instability, especially in the wake of growing global tensions and economic threats from Canada's largest trading partner, the United States.

"We don’t have to consult an expert — we have the expert," Zacharias said. "Having led us through the 2008 financial crisis, Carney is the strong, principled leader we need right now."

Affordability a Top Concern for Local Voters

At the doorsteps, Zacharias says the top issues she's hearing from voters are familiar: housing, healthcare, affordability, and jobs. She acknowledges that while global factors like U.S. trade disputes loom large, everyday concerns hit home.

"Affordability is a huge issue," she said. "People want to know: Can I buy a home? Can I afford groceries? Can I get treated when I go to the emergency room?"

Zacharias says under Carney’s leadership, the Liberal Party is offering fresh, ambitious plans — including the most significant federal housing initiative since World War II. The plan proposes building nearly four million homes by 2031 and launching a $1-billion "Canada Builds" partnership with provinces and territories to boost housing supply.

"This is a federal government that is getting back into the business of building homes," Zacharias explained. "And we’re also cutting bureaucratic red tape to make it easier for those homes to be built faster."

She also pointed to commitments to strengthen skilled trades, diversify Canada's international trade relationships, and invest in critical supply chains — all efforts she says will help shield the Canadian economy from external shocks.

Voters Focused on Leadership, Not Just Party Lines

One interesting trend Zacharias notes is that many traditionally conservative voters are giving her campaign a second look — not because of a shift in party loyalty, but because of concerns about leadership.

"I’ve spoken to lifelong Conservative voters who are incredibly concerned about the prospect of Pierre Poilievre as Prime Minister," she said. "They’re smart, business-minded people, and when it comes to choosing between Poilievre and Carney, they tell me they’re choosing leadership."

Ultimately, Zacharias believes the election in Barrie—Springwater—Oro-Medonte — and across the country — will hinge less on partisan affiliation and more on who voters believe can steady the ship in turbulent times.

"It’s about leadership and principle," she said. "Mark Carney has the experience to steer Canada forward. I’m proud to be on his team, and I’m ready to bring that strong leadership home to our community."