Conservative Damien Kurek announced he will step down as MP for Battle River–Crowfoot to allow party leader Pierre Poilievre to run in a by-election following a narrow and controversial loss in his own Carleton riding.
Kurek was re-elected with nearly 80 per cent of the vote.
“It has been a tremendous honour to serve the good people of Battle River–Crowfoot as their Member of Parliament since 2019,” Kurek said in a statement on Friday. “Their support and commitment to the Conservative movement has been unmatched.”
Poilievre lost his longtime riding of Carleton to Liberal newcomer Bruce Fanjoy by a margin of approximately 2,000 votes.
He held the riding since 2004 marking over two decades of a Conservative presence in the Ottawa region, often dominated by Liberals in recent years.
The contest garnered national attention after more than 90 candidates appeared on the ballot, creating confusion and unprecedented challenges for ballot counters.
Citing the need for strong leadership in the House of Commons, Kurek said he believes it is in the best interest of his constituents and the country to allow Poilievre a path back into Parliament.
“I know we need Pierre fighting in the House of Commons to hold the Liberal minority government to account,” said Kurek. “This is what’s best for Canada, and is what’s best for Battle River–Crowfoot.”
Kurek also pointed to the party’s strong national showing under Poilievre, noting that the Conservatives earned their highest share of the popular vote since 1988 under Brian Mulroney.
“The people of Battle River–Crowfoot will be represented well by Pierre for the remainder of this Parliamentary session,” Kurek said. “I will keep working with our incredible local team… and then run again here in the next general election.”
The Prime Minister must formally call the by-election to allow Poilievre to run, Mark Carney said earlier in the day if Conservatives opt to re-elect Poilievre via by-election that he will ensure it happens as soon as possible “no games, nothing, straight”.