Former prime minister Stephen Harper has used social media to announce he is stepping away from politics. Soon after he made the declaration, #stephenharper began trending on Twitter.
On Friday, Harper announced in a statement and video, posted on his official Facebook and Twitter accounts, that he is resigning his seat in the House of Commons and stepping down as MP for the riding of Calgary-Heritage.
He stayed as MP but stepped down as Conservative party leader after he lost the federal election in October to Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau.
After he made the announcement online, social media erupted with people weighing in on his departure.
The reaction to the move so far is mixed.
Some are thanking Harper for his contributions, including his successor.
On behalf of Canadians, I thank Stephen Harper for his long & dedicated service to our country. My best wishes to you and your family today.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) August 26, 2016
Thank You #StephenHarper for your service to #Canada and for the honour and privilege of serving with you in the 41st Parliament.
— Brad Butt (@BradWButt) August 26, 2016
Congrats to #StephenHarper on his substantive turn as PM. More than we'll be able 2 say 2 that shirtless, selfie-taking clown in office now.
— Jeff Mazur (@sanfordonsports) August 26, 2016
Others are glad to see him go.
I was in the back yard when I heard #StephenHarper resigned MP seat and I swear I heard #MotherNature breathe a big sigh of relief #cdnpoli
— TheFullMountie (@TheFullMountie) August 26, 2016
The big day is here! Let the bells ring out!
— William Owen (@Bill_Owen) August 26, 2016
Time for #StephenHarper to take his show on the road! @HaikuVikingGal pic.twitter.com/u8XwT66Sj5
And then there are some who are indifferent but weighed in nonetheless.
#StephenHarper resigned his seat today. Honestly, I am indifferent to the whole thing. Thought I would feel at least some happiness
— Kevin Webb (@RealCaustic) August 26, 2016
