The Conservative MP for Essex has stated he is open to hearing thoughts from constituents on who the federal party's next leader should be.
Chris Lewis, who was elected to his second term as MP this past fall, commented Thursday on the caucus vote that ousted party leader Erin O'Toole. Lewis called O'Toole a friend who spent most of his adult life serving Canadians.
"I would like to thank Erin O’Toole for his commitment and willingness to serve Canada, in the Royal Canadian Air Force, as the MP for Durham, as a Minister in Prime Minister Steven Harper’s Cabinet, and as the Leader of the Official Opposition," said Lewis in a statement. "Thank you, also, to Rebecca, Mollie and Jack for their sacrifice that allowed Erin to serve his community and his country."
Members of the Conservative caucus had begun questioning O'Toole's leadership after the party's disappointing showing in last fall's general election, in which the Liberals won another minority government.
Lewis said it is time for the Tories to come together and move forward, and he plans to fully support interim leader Candice Bergen, who will serve as Official Opposition Leader until a leadership convention names a permanent leader.
"Conservatives need a strong leader to re-unify our party in the Big Blue Tent, to inspire confidence in our vision for the future and to be a strong voice for Canadians in our government and around the world," said Lewis. "I look forward to hearing from those that choose to join the leadership race."
Lewis also said he will continue to serve the residents of the riding of Essex with "utmost respect, care, and compassion".
Bergen is the Tories' fourth leader since 2015 when Stephen Harper resigned after losing that year's election to Justin Trudeau's Liberals. As of Thursday night, there were not yet any declared candidates for the permanent leadership.
