Damien Kurek, the re-elected Conservative MP for Battle River-Crowfoot, has announced he will resign his seat to allow Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre to run in a by-election.
In a statement released Friday, Kurek said the decision came after “much discussion” with his wife and party leadership, and was made in the best interest of both Canada and his Alberta riding.
“Pierre Poilievre just finished a remarkable national campaign that received the highest vote share since 1988,” Kurek said. “We need Pierre fighting in the House of Commons to hold the Liberal minority government to account.”
Kurek said it had been an “honour” to serve since 2019 and promised to remain active in local politics, working with the Conservative team and preparing to run again in the next general election.
Poilievre does not currently hold a seat in the House of Commons after leading the Conservatives to a strong showing in the recent federal election. Battle River-Crowfoot has long been considered a Conservative stronghold.
Kurek said the move aligns with his long-standing belief in the importance of accountability and rural representation. “Offering this seat to our Party Leader is an important step,” he said.
The date for the by-election has not been set.
Elections Canada will confirm Kurek’s resignation and issue the writ for the by-election once it is officially received.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)