Meet the 6 candidates in Nanaimo's byelection, where the winner could tip B.C.'s balance of power

Nanaimo voters are heading to the polls this week to choose between six names on the ballot and elect the riding's next MLA.

The outcome of the byelection could have a dramatic impact on the province and tip the political balance of power in the legislature.

Right now, the Greens and NDP have a combined 43 seats in the legislature. The Liberals have 42 seats.

If the Liberals win, the seat countwill be a 43-43 tie and Speaker Darryl Plecas would have to cast tie-breaking votes.

An NDP win would preserve the minority government's status and Premier John Horgan's hold on power.

Advanced voting runs until 8 p.m. Sunday. General voting day is Jan. 30.

Here are the six candidates in the running. Click on each name to read more.

CBC Radio One B.C. Today is broadcasting live from The Buzz Cafe in Nanaimoto hear from people there about how they feel about the vote. and what's at stake in this by-election on Wednesday, Jan.30.Tune in to your local CBC Radio One, or listen live across the province atcbc.ca/bcor via theCBC Radio App at12:00 p.m. PT.