BATTLE RIVER—CROWFOOT, AB – May 2, 2025 — In a rare but strategically significant political move, Conservative MP-elect Damien Kurek has announced he will resign his seat to allow Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre to contest a by-election in the reliably Tory riding of Battle River—Crowfoot.
Kurek, who won re-election handily in the recent federal vote, made the announcement in a statement Friday, calling it a decision made after “much discussion” with his family and caucus leadership.
“It has been a tremendous honour to serve the good people of Battle River—Crowfoot,” said Kurek. “But after conversations with my wife Danielle and party colleagues, I’ve decided to step aside to allow our leader the opportunity to enter the House of Commons and lead our movement from the front lines.”
A Safe Seat for a High-Profile Leader
Poilievre, who led the Conservatives to the highest vote share since 1988 in the recent national election, currently does not hold a seat in Parliament — a significant disadvantage when leading the Official Opposition.
By clearing the way in one of the party’s strongest rural strongholds, Kurek ensures the leader can enter the House of Commons through a relatively safe and swift by-election route.
“Pierre Poilievre just finished a remarkable national campaign,” said Kurek. “We need him in the Commons — now more than ever — to hold the Liberal minority to account.”
Kurek: “This Is About What’s Best for Canada”
While stepping aside, Kurek made it clear this is not the end of his political career. He confirmed his intention to run again in the next general election, and emphasized that his decision is rooted in a belief that strong, accountable leadership is essential for both rural Canada and the national Conservative movement.
“I began my political career focused on ensuring rural voices were never forgotten,” he said. “This move ensures that Battle River—Crowfoot plays a key role in bringing that strong leadership to the national stage.”
A Coordinated Conservative Strategy
This announcement marks a notable moment in Canadian parliamentary tradition — with an MP-elect willingly vacating a seat to make way for their party leader, underscoring a unified Conservative front heading into a turbulent session of Parliament.
Kurek praised outgoing leaders and reiterated his support for the party’s momentum under Poilievre’s command.
“We need to build on this movement — a strong, united vision that restores the Canadian promise.”
NetNewsLedger’s Politics 2.0 will follow developments in the Battle River—Crowfoot by-election, including formal nomination timelines, campaign details, and what this means for national political strategy.
