Angus announces he will not seek re-election

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Published Apr 04, 2024  •  3 minute read

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Timmins-James Bay MP Charlie Angus has announced he will not run for re-election. 

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In a media release, Angus states “after seven elections, 20 years of service in Parliament, and the privilege of being the longest-serving MP in Timmins history, it is time to pass on the baton. For representative democracy to succeed, strong relationships and interactions between MPs and constituents are essential. It is about trust and the ability to engage with constituents on their turf. In considering the task of starting over in so many new communities spread over such a vast region, I recognize the need for new energy.” 

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Angus added “people tend to think of politics as the drama within the so-called Ottawa bubble. But for me, politics has always been rooted in the communities of Northern Ontario. I am no stranger to travelling hundreds of kilometres through snowstorms or to constituency meetings by helicopter, prop plane, bus, train, and freighter canoe. It has indeed resulted in one too many close calls on the white-knuckle highways of Northern Ontario. 

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“The travel and the countless days away from home were worth it. The people of our region gave me a powerful education about what politics really means and why it matters. They shared their life stories over coffee in their kitchens. They invited me to join their celebrations at the Legion Hall and community arenas.” 

He went on to say “I will never forget the hours my team spent trying to help during the floods, evacuations, horrific suicide crises and, more recently, the emergence of climate fires. Throughout it all, I was able to be a witness to the power of hope, determination, and the fundamental dignity of the people of the north. I am proud of the projects and investments that improved life in our region. 

“I am incredibly proud of my team, who were there to help those who were falling through the cracks. My team was there to serve working-class, rural, and Indigenous people with the integrity they deserved. Those voters put their trust in me, and I did my utmost to live up to their faith through my work in the constituency and Parliament. 

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“The success of this long political journey was only possible due to the sacrifices of my family. Long ago, they got used to an absent father and husband. I missed countless family milestones because I was hundreds of kilometres away at events. Even when I was home, I was perpetually distracted by emails and phone calls. 

After twenty years of being a part-time family man, I owe a lot of back time to people I truly love. 

Choosing another candidate will be a time for renewal and new ideas, and I am encouraged by the possibilities of what will come next. 

“As for me, I will continue to find ways to advocate for Indigenous and Northern issues. The climate crisis is an all-hands-on-deck moment. I started in grassroots activism and am excited to return to those roots. And yes, there will be more gigs, more books, more historical projects. 

“It has been the great honour of my life to represent and serve the constituents of Timmins-James Bay. I look forward to serving out my term with fire in my belly and determination to make this Parliament work for the benefit of the Canadian people. 

“I thank everyone who has put their trust in me.” 

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