Conservatives name Candice Bergen as interim leader after O'Toole voted out
CTV
The Conservative Party of Canada has named Candice Bergen as interim leader following a private vote late Wednesday evening.
Bergen, who had the role of deputy party leader, finished tops among nine candidates in a private preferential ballot.
Bergen has represented the Manitoba riding of Portage—Lisgar since 2008. She is replacing Erin O’Toole, who was ousted earlier Wednesday when 73 MPs voted to replace him.
“I want to express my gratitude and respect to [O’Toole] for his leadership and the sacrifices he’s made for our party and caucus,” Bergen tweeted earlier Wednesday. “Thanks also to Rebecca and the O’Toole family for their dedication and support. Erin is an asset and will continue to be a valued member of our team.”
Bergen has previously held the role of Minister of State for Social Development in Stephen Harper’s government and served as Opposition House leader under Rona Ambrose.
