Kate Young, the twice-elected Liberal MP in London West, has announced she will not be seeking re-election.
The announcement was made in a news release sent from Young's office on Thursday afternoon.
"After much thought and consideration, I have decided to step back from political life. This is not an easy decision because I am honoured to represent the people of London West. However, I believe the time has come to let someone else serve this riding. I want to thank the voters of London West for putting their faith in me for these past six years and I will continue to represent them in the House of Commons until the next election is held," Young said in a statement.
Young, a former television news anchor, was elected in the midst of the national Liberal wave in 2015 - defeating current London Mayor Ed Holder, who at the time, was a Conservative cabinet minister.
Despite the federal Liberals being reduced to minority status in 2019, Young was re-elected as the riding's MP, increasing her margin of victory to over 11,000 votes.
It is unknown who the Liberal candidate will be in the riding, or even when the next federal election will be.
“Leaving a position you love is never easy, but I have always prided myself in knowing when it is the right time to move on. Thank you for giving me this opportunity. It has been an honour to serve," Young said.
"While the timing of the next election is unknown, I think it is important that I give the London West Riding Association the time needed to nominate a candidate who will successfully represent the Liberals in this riding. I know there are many strong community members who would serve London well and I look forward to another Liberal being elected in London West."
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