Libby Davies not running in the 2015 federal election

By

VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – Longtime MP Libby Davies is not running for office next year.

The NDP Member of Parliament for Vancouver East made the announcement this morning.

“After almost 40 years of public service and elected office, it’s time for me to call it a day,” she says in a statement.

“I have worked hard as the Member of Parliament for Vancouver East for the last 18 years and I know it’s time for me to pass the torch.”

Davies calls her time representing Vancouver East “the most extraordinary experience.”

The longtime Downtown Eastside activist was first elected in 1997 and has been re-elected five times. She was previously a Vancouver city councillor.

Davies says over the years, she’s taken on tough issues like the need for drug-policy reform, even after hearing she wouldn’t be re-elected for doing that.

The 61-year-old’s decision is a blow for the New Democrats. She has been a standard-bearer for the left wing of the party and a staunch supporter of the Palestinians in their conflict with Israel.

There has been some speculation that her position on Palestine put her at odds with Tom Mulcair, who has taken a more pro-Israeli stance since becoming NDP leader almost three years ago.

Nevertheless, Mulcair named her one of three deputy leaders.

Davies’ full statement:

After almost 40 years of public service and elected office, it’s time for me to call it a day. I have worked hard as the Member of Parliament for Vancouver East for the last 18 years and I know it’s time for me to pass the torch. I will not be seeking re-election in the next federal election.

It has been the most extraordinary experience to represent the people of Vancouver East. I have loved my work both in the community and in Ottawa and I thank the good folks of east Vancouver who elected me six times as their representative.

Over the years, I have taken on tough issues like the need for drug policy reform and I remember being told, “You’ll never get re-elected if you take on issues like this.” But the people of east Vancouver have stood by me. I deeply appreciate how they have placed their support and confidence in me throughout my many years in office.

I am tremendously proud of the work that I have been able to accomplish as part of the NDP team, and to have served as House Leader and Deputy Leader.

I am confident it will be a another New Democrat from Vancouver East who will join Tom Mulcair in Ottawa after the next federal election and, with such a strong team and experienced and committed leader, we will form the first federal social democratic government in Canada’s history.

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today