The Conservative Party of Canada’s leadership race is heating up with about a dozen candidates in the fray.
And it is a diverse group with candidates including long-time MP Pierre Poilievre, who was the first to declare his candidacy and create a buzz, to the return of Jean Charest, who was premier of Quebec until 2012, and last held a seat as an MP in 1998. MP for Battle River Crowfoot Damien Kurek is watching the race closely.
“I have not made an endorsement yet, but I plan to,” said Kurek. “I take seriously the responsibility as a conservative candidate to be involved in the process, but also empowering members to be able to make that choice.”
He said he is excited about the process because it is sparking debate among Canadians.
“It is getting attention across the country, to a wide cross-section of Canada. I think some of the candidates have broad appeal,” said Kurek. “The fact conservatives and Canadians are paying attention to this race speaks to two things. One is Trudeau and the Liberals are tired and corrupt and Canadians want a change. Additionally, the Conservative Party is ready to move forward and there is an exciting energy that is associated with that.”
He said he is taking a thoughtful approach to deciding if and when he will endorse a candidate.
“I’m taking my time to look at the policies, speak to the candidates, and also emphasize I am, like all of the members of the Conservative Party, one vote in this process, and I believe in every opportunity to make sure members of the party are in power to make that choice is absolutely fundamental.”
The deadline for candidates to be on the Ballot was April 19. There will be three candidates debates on May 5, 11, and 25. The deadline to sign up new members is June 3. Ballots will be distributed to the membership in the summer and the election date is September 10.
“I am certainly looking forward to the stability that will come with a new leader,” said Kurek.
