Outgoing Prince Edward Island Premier Robert Ghiz says he is willing to help the federal Liberals in the next election if he can do something "without being on the ballot."
Ghiz surprised residents of P.E.I. and political watchers across the country on Thursday when he announced he would step down as premier and provincial Liberal leader as soon as his replacement can be chosen.
A leadership convention is expected sometime early in the new year.
His decision led to speculation that he stepped down in order to run for the federal Liberals in an election expected next October.
Ghiz, however, said Friday that he expects to help out the federal Liberals in some way, including working with Charlottetown MP Sean Casey, who served as his campaign manager when he ran for the provincial leadership in 2003.
"If there's something for me to do without being on the ballot, I'd be willing to help out," he told CTV's Canada AM on Friday.
He has spoken to New Brunswick Liberal MP Dominic Leblanc, a good friend, and expects to speak with Leader Justin Trudeau soon.
Ghiz, 40, cited several reasons for stepping down, including the fact that he has been an MLA for 12 years and became premier at age 33 in 2007.
"That’s a good career in politics," he said, adding that he is leaving his province and his party "in good shape" for a seamless transition too.
"Too often you see the transitions aren’t smooth," Ghiz said. "Whoever the next leader is, is left with perhaps a party that is in a bit of a shambles."
He also noted that his oldest child is five, and getting out of politics now will ensure that his children "can enjoy somewhat of a normal childhood."
As for his next career, Ghiz is keeping his options open, noting that he and his wife would like to remain in P.E.I., where she has a medical practice.
"The world’s my oyster, so to speak," Ghiz said. "I have no idea. I’m looking forward to whatever challenges may come to the forefront."
