NDP stalwart Christopherson won’t run for federal re-election
Longtime Hamilton Centre NDP stalwart David Christopherson will not seek re-election.
The 63-year-old, who has served the lower city riding as MP for 14 years and has spent more than three decades in federal, provincial and city politics, said he will not run in the fall 2019 election and plans to “step away from public life” thereafter.
“I truly love our city and the people who call it home. To have earned the trust and confidence of the people of Hamilton for so many years is truly humbling, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to join with so many dedicated people working to help build a stronger, more fair and diverse community,” he said in an announcement late Thursday.
“I could not have had the career I’ve had without the love, support and understanding of my daughter, Kayla, my wife, Denise, my mother, June, my sister-in-law, Rose, and my late brother, Mark. Family is so very important, and I look forward to spending more time with them in the not-so-distant future.”
Christopherson will continue to serve as MP until his term expires in October 2019.
Political pundits have speculated on a possible federal run by Matthew Green, the city’s first black councillor and a vocal supporter of NDP leader Jagmeet Singh.
Green, who has not yet registered to run in the fall city election, told the Spectator earlier this month he is still discussing his political future with his family. He declined to talk about his own plans Thursday.
“Today is about honouring a champion for our city,” he said. “It is pretty astounding what David has accomplished over the last 30 years in Hamilton.”
Christopherson’s wife, Denise, has also been rumoured as a potential replacement candidate for the NDP.
She said Thursday she has “no intention” of seeking the nomination for Hamilton Centre once her husband steps down, adding her priority is YWCA Hamilton, which she heads as CEO.
“I’m just proud of David’s contributions to our city — and I’m looking forward to seeing more of him,” she said.
Provincial NDP Leader Andrea Horwath issued a statement, thanking Christopherson for serving the people of Hamilton Centre and wishing him all the best on his new chapter in life.
“From one Steeltown scrapper to another: thank you,” she wrote.