Sarnia-Lambton MP Marilyn Gladu speaks at the Sarnia Riding Club. June 21, 2019. (BlackburnNews photo by Colin Gowdy)Sarnia-Lambton MP Marilyn Gladu speaks at the Sarnia Riding Club. June 21, 2019. (BlackburnNews photo by Colin Gowdy)
Sarnia

Gladu hopes leadership change can reunite Conservative party

Sarnia-Lambton's Conservative MP says Wednesday's ousting of party leader Erin O'Toole was difficult but an important step toward reuniting the party.

Marilyn Gladu said the PCs need to rebuild and pick someone to lead that will hold the government accountable.

She admits the past couple of years have been a challenge.

"Being the leader is not an easy job and certainly especially during the COVID pandemic with all of the restrictions and all of the challenging issues we've all faced," said Gladu. "I think it was particularly difficult, and I think Erin is an intelligent and experienced man of integrity. I respect him, I continue to respect him, and I thank him for serving as our leader."

The vote in caucus was reportedly 73-45 in favour of replacing O'Toole, although it was through a secret virtual ballot.

When asked if she was interested in becoming party leader, Gladu said 'anything can happen'. She also said that another federal election could be coming up in as little as 18 months.

Manitoba MP Candice Bergen was selected as the new interim leader of the Conservative Party of Canada in a secret ballot Wednesday night. Bergen will serve as interim leader until the party membership chooses a new permanent leader.

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