Conservative MP Scott Aitchison has officially announced that he plans to resign his seat in the House of Commons at the end of Parliament’s fall sitting, bringing his seven-year federal political career to a close.
The Ontario MP, who has represented Parry Sound–Muskoka since 2019, confirmed his planned departure Wednesday after reports emerged a day earlier that he was preparing to step down.
“After 30 years of public life, it is time for a new chapter where I will explore new opportunities,” Aitchison said in a social media statement.
The former Huntsville mayor did not disclose what he intends to do after leaving federal politics. Instead, he reflected on his decades in public service and thanked his constituents, staff and Conservative colleagues.
Aitchison said he sought throughout his career to build consensus, reduce bureaucracy and improve the lives of the people he represented. He said his approach to politics was shaped by the values of his hometown, including respect, decency and supporting neighbours.
Former Conservative leadership candidate
Before entering federal politics, Aitchison served in municipal government in Huntsville, Ont., including as the town’s mayor.
He was first elected to the House of Commons in 2019 and later entered the Conservative Party’s 2022 leadership contest.
Aitchison finished fifth in the race ultimately won by Pierre Poilievre.
Housing affordability was one of the central themes of his leadership campaign, and Poilievre subsequently appointed him as the Conservative housing critic.
In announcing his departure, Aitchison pointed to his work on the housing file, arguing that governments across Canada have increasingly recognized the effects of regulation, taxes and fees on housing affordability.
“Our Conservative team can be proud of the work we have done on this file and I know the team will continue this work after my departure,” he said.
Aitchison also thanked his Conservative caucus colleagues and Poilievre, saying it had been a privilege to serve alongside them.
He said his time in federal politics had allowed him to meet Canadians across the country who want political leaders to focus on making everyday life more affordable.
Poilievre praises Aitchison’s public service
Poilievre paid tribute to Aitchison following the announcement, describing him as a friend and dedicated public servant with a strong connection to his community.
“Scott Aitchison has spent his life serving the community and country he loves,” Poilievre said.
The Conservative leader highlighted Aitchison’s work supporting local businesses and workers, assisting constituents with the federal government and advocating for community initiatives addressing housing, food security and mental health in Parry Sound–Muskoka.
Poilievre said Aitchison remained focused throughout his time in Ottawa on the people who elected him.
Departure will add another House vacancy
Aitchison’s eventual resignation will add to a growing number of vacancies in the House of Commons.
Six federal seats are currently vacant following the departures of Conservative MPs Larry Brock and Cathay Wagantall, former Liberal cabinet minister Steven Guilbeault, former Liberal MP Shaun Chen, former NDP MP Alexandre Boulerice and former Bloc Québécois MP Simon-Pierre Savard-Tremblay.
Boulerice and Savard-Tremblay left federal politics to seek seats in Quebec’s provincial election.
Aitchison’s riding will not officially become vacant until his resignation takes effect following the fall sitting.
The House of Commons is currently scheduled to sit until Dec. 11, meaning the Parry Sound–Muskoka vacancy and subsequent byelection process would begin after his formal departure.
