David Brazil, former Tory leader, stepping down in December
PC MHA will finish his term on Dec. 29
David Brazil, who led Newfoundland and Labrador's Tories on an interim basis until Tony Wakeham's victory as Progressive Conservative leader in October, said Friday he will step down on Dec. 29.
Brazil, who represents the district of Conception Bay East-Bell Island, has been an MHA for 14 years.
Brazil told reporters he has to put the emphasis on his personal health, more than a year after he announced he was receiving care for what was described as a "medical event."
"It's the first time in my 41 years as a civil servant that I'm going to put my health and my family's well-being ahead of serving the people of this province," said Brazil.
Brazil became interim leader of the PC Party after Ches Crosbie resigned in the wake of the 2021 general election, which saw Andrew Furey's Liberals retain control of government.
Brazil said he will be undertaking cardio-rehab seven says a week, and that he cannot do justice to his fellow caucus members or his constituents.
"I feel like I've done most of the things I've wanted to do," he said. "And hopefully, in some small way, improved people's lives and set a direction that would be beneficial to people here."
Brazil said he will use the rest of his term to finish up the tasks he set out to do and to set the tone for whoever takes over for him.
"It's an easy time for me to go," he said. "The party's in a good place, we got a great leader, we came to a great leadership convention, united as a party.
"And once I'm healthy, who knows what I might be able to do to better serve the people?"
When asked if the door is open to later entering federal politics, Brazil said his priority has always been the PC caucus of Newfoundland and Labrador — but didn't rule it out.
"I do have an inkling there to make sure there is proper representation in Ottawa for Newfoundland and Labrador," he said.
"If that takes me that route down the road, after my health is more secure, then that's a discussion we can have. But in politics, you never say never."
Brazil was emotional when he spoke about the people who reached out to him because of his health — his constituents, colleagues and members of other parties.
"My heart is always with the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. And my soul is with the PC Party," he said.
Brazil said he will be involved in helping whoever is elected in his place.
A byelection must be called within 60 days of a seat becoming vacant.
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