MLA Jeff Wharton announces retirement

Longtime PC MLA Jeff Wharton announced he will not be seeking re-election.

Manitoba MLA Jeff Wharton will not be seeking a nomination in the next election.

The PC Party made the announcement on Thursday, saying the Red River North MLA is embarking on a new chapter.

“Family has always remained at the centre of this journey,” Wharton said in a news release.

“A 41-year partnership with my wife, the joy of raising two daughters, and the continued blessing of five grandchildren have shaped a deep appreciation for the importance of time, community, and giving back in meaningful ways.”

Wharton’s public service career began in 1998 when he was elected to the Winnipeg Beach town council. He served four years as a councillor, including two as deputy mayor.

In 2010, Wharton sought the PC nomination in the then-riding of Gimli, eventually finding electoral success in 2016.

Following boundary changes in 2019, Wharton was elected in the new constituency of Red River North and was re-elected in 2023.

Throughout his political career, Wharton served as minister of municipal relations; minister of crown services; minister of environment, climate and parks; and minister of economic development, investment, trade and mining.

The MLA’s career also hasn’t been without its controversies. The province’s ethics commissioner found that Wharton, former premier Heather Stefanson and former deputy premier Cliff Cullen tried to push through a controversial silica sand mining project after the PCs lost the 2023 election but before the NDP government was sworn in. Wharton was fined $10,000.

“I want to express deep gratitude to my Progressive Conservative caucus colleagues,” Wharton said.

“Working alongside them has been among the most rewarding aspects of public life, with shared efforts through both successes and challenges. Confidence remains strong in the direction set by party leader Obby Khan and the path toward forming the next provincial government.”

The PC Party said a nomination meeting for its next Red River North candidate will be held in due course.