Service: Talk & Action

By Damien Kurek
Battle River-Crowfoot MP

It is a true honour to once again receive a clear mandate from the people of Battle River—Crowfoot, a mandate that demands change, hope, and a restoration of the promise of Canada. Throughout this past election, I have heard clearly the cry for change and the fear that we would continue being held back and trapped in the downward spiral we have seen over this last decade of Liberal leadership. Though our Conservative team under Pierre Poilievre made great strides, we came just short of the finish line in this past election.

I have been proud to fight for an unapologetically hopeful vision that puts Canada first — not just as a slogan but as the foundation of what the Government of Canada should stand for. It is in doing what’s best for Battle River—Crowfoot, Alberta, and Canada that Danielle and I made the decision to temporarily step aside as your Member of Parliament, triggering a by-election that will allow Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre to run in this riding. While this was not an easy decision, it was one made with a lot of prayer and thought. We truly believe this offer of resignation is the best way we can serve you and support the future of our country.

We have heard from many of you regarding our decision to temporarily step aside, both your excitement and your concerns. When we made the offer to Pierre, we specifically asked for his commitment in representing the people of Battle River—Crowfoot. We know how important it is for Pierre to get out to the region, to see our people, and be our voice in Parliament as Leader of the Opposition. Have no doubt, Pierre is one of the hardest-working politicians I have ever met, and as he gave his resounding commitment to represent our people, I truly believe he will serve this region well.

Practically, there are rules and processes around how an MP resigns. This means that my official resignation cannot take place until the middle of June. Until then, I have been sworn in and will continue to remain your MP, taking my seat in Parliament, which will allow me to vote for a new speaker and continue fulfilling a number of essential duties. Shortly after my official resignation, the Prime Minister will be tasked with calling a by-election, which we hope will take place by mid-summer. Throughout this whole process, my team and I are working hard to ensure that casework and constituency services are uninterrupted. If you need assistance with any federal Government programs or services, please reach out.

During my official swearing-in as your MP this past week, I chose to recite The Oath in front of the portrait of Sir John A. Macdonald. In the time around Confederation, Canada’s first Prime Minister was a bold and fearless nation-builder. While not perfect, he truly believed in Canada and its future. In this reflection, it is Danielle’s and my hope that, in a small way, our actions will contribute to the continued building of our nation. Throughout this entire process, we continue to be deeply committed to serving the people of Battle River—Crowfoot and being a voice of representation. Until the next federal general election, where I will once again be your Conservative Candidate, this is how we feel we can best put the talk of service into action.

We need to build on our Conservative momentum with that strong, united vision that will restore the Canadian promise. I would ask you that the trust you have put in me, you also put in Pierre, someone who I truly believe is the right person to be Canada’s Prime Minister.

I appreciate your support, understanding, and trust as we proceed.