After nearly 30 years in politics, MLA Brian Mason retiring

Brian Mason retiring from politics The longest-serving MLA in the current legislative assembly is retiring. CTV Edmonton’s Shanelle Kaul has a look back on his colourful legacy.

The Alberta government’s Minister of Transportation and Government House Leader Brian Mason announced he will not seek re-election when Albertans head to the polls in 2019.

“I will not be running again in the next election,” Mason said in a news conference Wednesday. “Does anyone have any questions?”

At 18 years as MLA, Mason is the longest-sitting MLA in the legislative assembly.

“I’m turning 65 in October too, and I’ve won ten consecutive elections, and I think that’s enough,” Mason said.

“There’s always more you could accomplish, I could think of a lot of other things that I could accomplish if I could live forever or be in government forever,  but that’s not really how life works,” Mason continued.

“I’m very pleased with the things I’ve accomplished both on [Edmonton’s] City Council and as a member of opposition, and in government as well.”

Mason was first elected MLA for Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood in a byelection in 2000, and served as leader of the NDP from September 18, 2004 to October 18, 2014.

Before the NDP was elected into power, he stepped down as leader and Rachel Notley took his place.

“I think my proudest accomplishment was talking her into running for leader, not something she was ready to do,” Mason said.

Prior to his move to provincial politics, Mason served as City Councillor in Edmonton for Ward 3, he was first elected in October 1989, and won three civic elections.

Response to news from both sides

Shortly after Mason’s announcement, Premier Rachel Notley praised the party’s former leader for his work.

“He’s never backed down from a fight and whether he was part of a caucus of two or 54, he always knows who he stands for, and he’s always been very dedicated,” Notley said.

The premier also posted messages on Twitter thanking Mason for his work with the NDP.

UCP Leader Jason Kenney also tweeted after the announcement, calling the long-time MLA “a good man devoted to Alberta and public service."

Two other former cabinet ministers have also announced they would not seek re-election in 2019: the former associate health minister Brandy Payne and former Minister for the Status of Women and Service Alberta Stephanie McLean.