Au revoir (eventually), Ted Menzies

A statement from the minister of state for finance.

Since the disastrous flood hit our communities on June 19th, I have travelled throughout the entire riding of Macleod and seen not only property destroyed, but also lives. My heart goes out to all those affected. As I spent this time trying to help my neighbours and constituents, it reminded me why I put my name forward to run for election in 2004.

For over nine years, I have been proud to represent the people of this large and diverse riding in Ottawa; together we have been able to accomplish much. As Canadians, we have developed a great sense of pride in who we are and what is most important to us. Witnessing the effects of the floods across Southern Alberta, and the devastation of High River and other communities, I have decided that it is important for me to be here more often. What brought me to Ottawa was a love of community and the desire to help Albertans and Canadians the best way I knew possible.

I am announcing today that I will not be seeking the CPC nomination in the new Federal Riding of Foothills (presently Macleod) leading up to the 2015 election. For the next two years I will continue to do all I can for Macleod, here in the riding and in Ottawa.

Because of this decision, I have asked Prime Minister Harper not to consider my name for any future cabinet position.

In the future, I am confident that a man or woman of thoughtful conviction will come forward with energy and enthusiasm to run in the new riding in 2015.

I am so incredibly proud and honoured to represent the constituents of Macleod and I am proud of our government. Together we have accomplished much, but being an effective Member of Parliament requires a team of dedicated volunteers, staff and supporters. It also requires a tremendous amount of commitment from family and I have been blessed with so much support from my wife Sandy and our family.

Thank-you to all who support me, work with me and stand by me as I continue as the Member of Parliament for Macleod.

Mr. Menzies joins Keith Ashfield in ruling himself out of the next cabinet. Vic Toews is rumoured to be retiring, but as yet he has not confirmed as much. If Mr. Toews joins Mr. Menzies and Mr. Ashfield, that would make four openings in cabinet, presuming that the Prime Minister still feels it necessary to have an intergovernmental affairs minister (Peter Penashue having resigned in March and then been defeated in May).