Conservative MP Scott Aitchison has officially announced he’s resigning his seat following the conclusion of the fall parliamentary sitting. In a letter posted on social media on Wednesday, the 53-year-old said, “it is time for a new chapter where I will explore new opportunities.” Aitchison most recently served as the Conservatives’ housing critic and said the role, “allowed me to contribute to a fundamental shift in the national debate on housing.” Speculation about Aitchison’s departure was first reported by The Hill Times on Tuesday. CTV News confirmed he had decided to resign shortly afterwards. A source close to Aitchison told CTV News the MP informed Poilievre about his decision to resign last week. Aitchison has represented the riding of Parry Sound-Muskoka as an MP since 2019, and previously ran for the Conservative leadership in 2022, where he lost to Poilievre. Prior to his time in federal politics, he served as the mayor of Huntsville from 2014 to 2019. Aitchison’s sudden decision to resign comes as Poilievre faces internal leadership questions, as reported by CTV News in August. Poilievre has also lost seven other MPs since last fall. Chris d’Entremont, Michael Ma, Matt Jeneroux and Marilyn Gladu all crossed the floor to the Liberals over the course of several months, while Richard Martel left for a Senate appointment. Larry Brock and Cathay Wagantall, meanwhile, have recently left federal politics, leaving their seats vacant. In his letter, Aitchison saluted Poilievre, saying that it “has been a privilege to serve” alongside the Conservative leader and his caucus colleagues. “Our Conservative team can be proud of the work we have done on this file and I know the team will continue this work after my departure,” Aitchison wrote. Aitchison also reflected on his 30 years in public life, saying, “it has been the honour of my lifetime to serve you and represent our community.” Poilievre responds In a post on X, Poilievre wished Aitchison “all the very best” in his next chapter adding, “Scott is a friend, a dedicated public servant and a man who cares deeply about the people he represents.” The Conservative leader also said Aitchison’s greatest strength has been his connection to his community while fighting for local workers and businesses.
