SKEENA REGION – In a political landscape often dominated by traditional résumés, Claire Rattée’s story is a powerful, unfiltered narrative of redemption and northern authenticity. The 33-year-old Kitimat resident and small business owner has shattered political history, becoming Skeena’s first-ever female MLA and a living embodiment of the “ink to influence” journey.
For over 13 years, Rattée has been the owner and operator of Arcane Arts Inc., a thriving tattoo studio. It was within those walls, she says, that she truly understood the pulse of her community—listening to the confessions, dreams, and stories of her clients who never imagined their tattoo artist would one day be their voice in Victoria. Her deep roots in the community also led her to public service in 2014, when she became the youngest woman ever elected to Kitimat’s city council.
Lived Experience as a Platform
What makes Rattée’s rise so compelling is that her political platform is unapologetically shaped by lived experience. She has been open about her past struggles with addiction and homelessness, a journey that she now credits with giving her a profound understanding of the challenges her community faces. This personal history is the foundation of her role as the B.C. Conservative Party’s Critic for Mental Health and Addictions.
“I never thought politics would be my path,” Rattée has said, “but I’ve lived the struggles my community faces — housing insecurity, mental health crises, the fight to be heard. I knew I had to step up.”
Her political priorities are a direct reflection of this journey:
- Pushing for more low-income housing in small northern communities.
- Expanding emergency shelter access in remote areas.
- Addressing mental health and addiction services with urgency and realism.
- Standing firm on local economic issues, from industry jobs to small business growth.
A Hands-On, Highly Responsive Approach
Rattée’s political style is as authentic as her background. She is not shy about challenging the status quo in debates and at grassroots events. However, what has resonated most with her constituents and set her apart is her hands-on, highly responsive approach to her new role.
Recognizing the need for accessible leadership, Rattée is known for being personally responsive to anyone from the constituency who reaches out for help by email or phone. This direct line of communication reflects her belief that true leadership means listening to the people you represent and working to solve their problems with urgency and genuine care.
Her rise isn’t just a personal victory, it’s a Skeena story that says leadership can be authentic, and that grit and redemption can leave permanent marks—on history, and in the heart of a community she now proudly serves.
Contact Information
Claire Rattée, MLA for Skeena
- Phone: 778-401-5694
- Email:
claire.rattee.MLA@leg.bc.ca - Office Address: 104-4710 Lazelle Ave, Terrace, BC V5G 1T5
