A well known Strathroy businessman is seeking the federal Conservative Party nomination in the Lambton-Kent-Middlesex riding.
Peter Cuddy of Cuddy Farms made the official announcement in Strathroy Friday afternoon.
Bev Shipley, the current Tory MP for the riding, announced in July he won't be seeking re-election after 12 years in office.
Cuddy said his extensive experience in agriculture will be put to good use in Ottawa.
"Because I'm a farmer, I grew up as a farmer, my parents had a farm family, we obviously grew turkeys and got into the chicken business, we grew beef cattle, I know dairy, and of course cash cropping was always apart of it," said Cuddy. "So I think I have the fundamental background to be a good representative for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex."
Cuddy said if elected, he would give pro-life supporters more of a voice on Parliament Hill.
"You know my family's been here since 1832, so I understand the importance of family and of family values, and I think that's absolutely critical in any riding, but especially a farm and rural community like Lambton-Kent-Middlesex. It's critically important and I think I can bring some value to that."
Cuddy said he also understands trade from his experience with international trade at Cuddy Farms. He said he thinks the Trudeau government is lacking immensely in that area.
Cuddy said he hopes to carry on the legacy of Shipley if elected in the fall of 2019.
