Tory MP Lisa Raitt steps away from finance critic role, could run for party leadership
by The Canadian Press
The current candidates in the Conservative leadership race are MPs Maxime Bernier, Andrew Scheer, Kellie Leitch, Michael Chong, Deepak Obhrai and Brad Trost
OTTAWA—Conservative MP Lisa Raitt says she is stepping down from her role as finance critic to “continue discussions on the future leadership” of her party.
The development suggests Raitt could be getting closer to announcing her intention to run for the Tory leadership as the rules of the race forbid candidates from holding such roles.
Raitt, who was minister of transportation under the Stephen Harper government, made her announcement on Twitter this morning.
The current candidates in the Conservative leadership race are MPs Maxime Bernier, Andrew Scheer, Kellie Leitch, Michael Chong, Deepak Obhrai and Brad Trost.
MP Erin O’Toole is expected to formally announce his bid later today, while former MP Chris Alexander has made it clear in media reports that he intends to run.
The first leadership debate is to take place Nov. 10 in Saskatoon.
Conservatives will elect their new leader next May 27.
