Ottawa hot dog vendor applying to be senator

After more than 30 years behind the grill of an Ottawa hot dog stand, Terry Scanlon wants to launch a second career representing Canadians in the Upper Chamber.

His decision comes after the new Liberalgovernment announced a plan toaccept non-partisan applications.

Scanlontold CBC News he meets people of all stripes running his Hot Diggity Dogstand on the corner ofBank Street and Laurier Avenue, not far from Parliament Hill.

"In my business here we deal with all kinds of people: blue collar, white collar and no collar at all," he told CBC News.

"You don't have to go to political school to find outwhat's going on. You just have to have a heart and compassion to help these people and I think I'm in a position to do that."

Applications won't be accepted until the new year, after an advisory panel is formed with the goal ofselecting candidates based on merit. The plan ispart of an effort to endpartisanship and restoreconfidence in the scandal-riddenSenate.

Ottawa hot dog vendor eyes Senate seat

9 years ago

Duration 2:03

After more than 30 years behind the grill of an Ottawa hot dog stand, Terry Scanlon wants to launch a second career representing Canadians in the Upper Chamber.

Plans to pass business on to next generation

On Monday, some ofScanlon'scustomers applauded his plan.

"I'm surprised but happy at the same time, 'cause this is an honest guy," said KevinSauve.

"I fully support people from all different walks of life doing so," said Kimberly Brewer. "We need a large variety of opinions and backgrounds to really inform what the Senate can do."

You don't have to go to political school to find outwhat's going on. You just have to have a heart and compassion.- TerryScanlon, Ottawa hot dog vendor

Scanlonplans to hand the reins of his hot dog business over to his son if he is appointed to the Senate.

Applicants must be Canadian citizens between the ages of 30 and 75,ownproperty with a net value of $4,000 in their province of residenceand have an overall net worth of $4,000.

Applicants must also demonstrate at least one of three qualifications:a high level of experience inlegislative process and public service;a lengthy and recognized record of service to one's community; or recognized leadership andoutstanding record of achievement in one's field.

Find the full list of qualifications and criteria here.