MP won’t seek re-election in federal vote

Stewart plans to step away from politics after nearly two decades of public life

Miramichi-Grand Lake MP Jake Stewart says he won’t reoffer in the next federal election. (SUBMITTED PHOTO)

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MIRAMICHI • MP Jake Stewart says he won’t be running in the next federal election.

The first-term Conservative MP for Miramichi-Grand Lake issued a statement on Thursday on his Facebook page saying he won’t be seeking re-election when Canadians head to the polls later this year.

Stewart, who’s spent 18 years in public life, said he decided to step away from politics because he’s “come to realize the toll it’s taken on my family and my health.”

The former MLA and provincial cabinet minister, and major supporter of federal Tory Leader Pierre Poilievre, has also made headlines lately for facing internal strife with former supporters and staff. Since late-January, his constituency office on King George Highway was closed for “security reasons.” It’s unclear if it has reopened.

An unnamed person, or group, behind a Facebook page called “Miramichi Spirit and Strength” has called for Stewart’s resignation and raised concerns about social media posts from Stewart defending a Jan. 20 salute from businessman Elon Musk that some have perceived as a Nazi salute.

“I will not be reoffering in the upcoming election,” Stewart said in his statement on Thursday.

“I want you to know that I have given my very best to local causes and I am forever grateful for all of your support over the years, from municipal through provincial and federal politics.

“I sincerely hope to have made a real, impactful difference in our community.”