The Perth-Wellington Federal NDP Riding Association announced last week that Donna Hansen has withdrawn as its candidate in the next federal election, citing personal reasons.
“Over the winter I have had some health issues which, while not serious, would affect my ability to run the kind of campaign that I would like and that the Perth-Wellington NDP deserves,” Hansen said.
“Now that an election is not imminent, I feel confident that the riding association has the time to find a new candidate to lead us into the next election. As I approach my retirement in October, I look forward to taking care of my health and spending more time with my husband, children, and grandchildren.”
NDP riding president, Kathy Vassilakos said she respects Hansen’s decision and will work to find a new candidate before an election, which many expect sometime next year.
“Donna has given so much to this riding association and while we regret her resignation we are fully behind her decision to put her health and family first,” said Vassilakos.
“We know that she won’t be easy to replace but we appreciate her giving us ample time to search for a new candidate.”
Vassilakos also noted NDP support in the riding has risen almost 300% since 2000 and she is confident that qualified candidates will present themselves.
“There is little doubt that that the NDP is the party on the move in Perth-Wellington,” she said.
“In the last federal election, the NDP had its best showing in over 15 years, and we plan to build on that success.”
Hansen, who was acclaimed as the candidate in March, ran as the NDP candidate in the 2007 provincial election. As well as serving as president and vice-president on the executive of the riding association, she has worked on numerous elections and NDP fundraisers.
