The local Conservative riding association is looking for those who are interested in carrying the party's banner in Simcoe North, but when a candidate will be chosen is unknown.
The Simcoe North Conservative Association put the call out for potential nominees after MP Bruce Stanton announced in June he would not seek re-election.
“I’ve already been approached by some people who are interested in the nomination,” said Kirk Farquhar, chair of the association’s candidate selection committee.
So far, four people have expressed interest, he said.
The new party leader will be chosen Sunday, and the local association is waiting on that result before taking next steps.
In the running are Leslyn Lewis, Peter MacKay, Erin O’Toole and Derek Sloan. The new leader, Farquhar explained, has the right to request changes to nomination rules on local levels.
While it’s expected the rules will remain the same, the Simcoe North association is waiting, just to be sure.
Simcoe North Conservative members will eventually vote to select the local candidate. The candidate selection committee’s job is to recruit those who are interested and make sure they know what they’re getting into.
“Most people don’t really understand the workload of being an MP,” Farquhar said, noting most of them put in at least 80 hours a week. “What people here are looking for is someone who is going to be active in the community and will service the community well.”
Stanton has exemplified that community service since he was elected in 2006, Farquhar added.
“I can’t say enough good things about Bruce,” he said. “I’ve been nothing but impressed with him both in his work ethic and the way he looks after people in his riding. I’m sad to see him go, but I understand.”
Anyone interested in seeking the Simcoe North nomination can email Farquhar at [email protected].
