On Air Now More FM Workday Kick off 9:00am - 11:55am
Now Playing Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers Mary Jane's Last Dance

Niagara Falls MPP Not Running for NDP Leadership

Wayne Gates says leading the opposition would make it difficult to serve his riding.

Niagara Falls MPP Wayne Gates says he will not run in the Ontario NDP Leadership race. 

Gates says the role would make it more difficult to serve his constituents in Niagara Falls, Fort Erie and Niagara-on-the-Lake. 

"The work involved with leading Ontario's opposition would make serving the constituents in Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake and Fort Erie more challenging. Simply, I may not have the opportunity to connect with people in the same way I have for years."

The MPP notes he remains committed to the NDP and its goals. 

"Our party must be a powerful voice for working people and the most vulnerable in this province. Healthcare, workers' rights, education, reconciliation, equity and our environment all must be at the forefront as we move forward."

So far, MPP Marit Stile is the only candidate in the running.

The full statement from Wayne Gates is available below. 

More from Local News