Today’s Northumberland spoke with Peterborough-Northumberland MP Philip Lawrence about the Federal Conservative Party’s new leader, Durham MP Erin O’Toole.
What most people thought would be a clear victory for Peter MacKay, was dismissed into the early hours when the ballots showed O’Toole as the clear winner.
Lawrence spoke to Today’s Northumberland about his friend O’Toole and what the future holds for the Conservative Party.
Lawrence who supported his long-time friend said in press release on Wednesday, August 26, 2020,”it is with great excitement that I congratulate my friend, neighbor and mentor Erin O’Toole on a hard-fought victory.
Erin’s ability to unite members of the Conservative movement across the country became apparent when, despite special circumstances making this leadership race unorthodox, he was able to adapt and pull out a decisive victory.
With the highest voter turnout of any leadership race in Canadian history, Erin was able to rally the votes of 57% of Conservative members. With both military and private-sector experience, Erin is uniquely positioned to defeat Justin Trudeau, and represent the needs of Canadians as our next Prime Minister.
It has been clear from Erin’s actions since being elected the Leader of the Official Opposition that he intends to broaden the traditional Conservative base and create a more inclusive party. I am excited to support a leader with a solid plan to get our economy back on track, save small businesses, and rebuild Canada.
To the former leader of the Conservative Party, Andrew Scheer, I want to extend my deepest gratitude. Your lifelong dedication to the public service, and your leadership during these unprecedented times will not be forgotten.
I am proud to be supporting Erin O’Toole, the leader who will bring together Conservatives from across the country to fight for the principles that unify us.”