Yet another Progressive Conservative MLA has decided not to run for re-election this fall.
Cathy Cox announced Thursday she won’t seek another term as the representative for Kildonan-River East, a role she’s held for almost seven years.
Cox joins several other Tory MLAs stepping down ahead of this year’s provincial election, including cabinet ministers Eileen Clarke, Cliff Cullen and Alan Lagimodiere.
In a statement, Cox said it’s time for her to step back and spend more time with family.
“I am forever grateful and humbled for the opportunity to represent the hard-working families of Kildonan-River East in the Manitoba Legislature,” she said.
“It is their trust and confidence that motivates and inspires me. More work remains and I will continue to serve our community with the passion, honesty and integrity they deserve.”
Cox, who said in her statement that she will work to keep Kildonan-River East a Tory riding after her departure, also singled out former premier Brian Pallister for his “confidence and special trust” in her abilities as a legislator.
She did not mention Premier Heather Stefanson.
The Progressive Conservatives have lagged behind the opposition NDP in recent polls, with Stefanson firmly ensconced as Canada’s least-popular provincial leader in polling by the Angus Reid Institute.
The party, however, picked up a victory in a December byelection, with former Winnipeg councillor Kevin Klein winning a tight race for the Kirkfield Park seat.
Stefanson, who is on vacation in Florida, has said her departing caucus members earlier let her know of their intentions.
Manitoba’s provincial election is scheduled for Oct. 3.
–With files from The Canadian Press