After nearly two decades of serving as a Progressive Conservative Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP), Lisa MacLeod has announced that she will not be seeking re-election in the upcoming Ontario provincial election.
MacLeod, who has represented the riding of Nepean-Carleton since 2006, made the announcement on Tuesday, stating that she wants to focus on her family and personal life.
In a statement, MacLeod said, “After much reflection and discussion with my family, I have decided that it is time for me to step away from politics and focus on the next chapter of my life.”
During her time as an MPP, MacLeod has held various cabinet positions, including Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, and Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries.
She has also been a vocal advocate for mental health and has worked to improve services for individuals with disabilities.
MacLeod’s decision not to seek re-election has been met with surprise and disappointment from her colleagues and constituents.
Premier Doug Ford expressed his gratitude for MacLeod’s service, saying, “Lisa has been a dedicated and hardworking member of our team, and her contributions to our government and the people of Ontario will not be forgotten.”
Nepean-Carleton PC riding association president, Alex Van Hamme, praised MacLeod for her dedication to her constituents, saying, “Lisa has been a tireless advocate for our community and has always put the needs of her constituents first.”
MacLeod’s departure from politics will leave a void in the PC party, as she has been a prominent figure and a strong voice within the party.
The upcoming provincial election, scheduled for June 2022, will see a new candidate representing the PC party in the riding of Nepean-Carleton.
In the meantime, MacLeod will continue to serve as MPP until the election is called, and she has promised to work hard for her constituents until then.
As she bids farewell to her political career, MacLeod expressed her gratitude to her colleagues, staff, and constituents, saying, “I am grateful for the trust and support I have received over the years, and I am proud of what we have accomplished together.”
