File Photo (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By James Peters

Conservative Party Leadership

Her top choice out, McLeod reconsiders her options in CPC leadership race

Jan 23, 2020 | 4:17 PM

OTTAWA — In the Conservative Party of Canada leadership race, the MP for Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo thought she knew who she was supporting. Now, she’s not so sure.

Cathy McLeod spoke to CFJC Today Thursday (Jan. 23) from Ottawa. She has arrived in the nation’s capital ahead of the resumption of sitting in the House of Commons.

In recent days, several caucus colleagues and party members have been stating whether they plan to enter the race to succeed Andrew Scheer as party leader.

McLeod says one announcement this week has her reconsidering who she will support.

“I was disappointed when I heard Rona Ambrose wasn’t going to run. She certainly would have had my 100 per cent support,” said McLeod. “I think she did a tremendous job as interim leader. But I certainly understand that it’s time in her life to focus in a new direction.”

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Ambrose bridged the gap between Scheer and Stephen Harper, stepping in as interim leader after Harper resigned in the wake of the 2015 election defeat.

Former Quebec premier Jean Charest opted out of the race as well this week, and six-term MP Pierre Poilievre said no on Thursday.

“The surprise… of the day was Pierre Poilievre. I chatted with him before Christmas and he seemed fully committed,” said McLeod. “It is a big commitment and I think everyone is really weighing their options.”

“Right now, we know (former Harper cabinet minister) Peter McKay is in, pretty well for sure. Erin O’Toole is in for sure. (Ontario MP) Marilyn Gladu says she’s in. And there are a number of other people who are sort of sniffing around or putting their toe into the water.”

McLeod supported O’Toole, an Ontario MP, in the 2017 leadership race. This time around, McLeod says she’ll bide her time before choosing a candidate to get behind.

“I’m still going to watch and see. There are interesting names that are coming forward, even today, so I think I’m still going to give it a few weeks before I decide where I’m going to land.”

Candidates must declare their eligibility for the first phase of the leadership race by February 27. Party members will choose the new leader on June 27.