Newfoundland and Labrador Liberals face significant electoral departures

As a federal election approaches, Newfoundland and Labrador's political scene is changing. Five of the six current Liberal MPs will not run again, creating opportunities for new candidates. The political environment is heating up ahead of an expected election call this Sunday. Various aspiring candidates are stepping forward. They include an airline executive from Labrador, a deputy mayor from Mount Pearl, a ship's captain from the Goulds, and a real estate agent from Deer Lake. The political landscape is set to change, particularly as only two MPs, Liberal Joanne Thompson and Conservative Clifford Small, are seeking re-election. One area to watch is Cape Spear, where interest is high following Liberal MP Seamus O'Regan's decision not to run. The Conservative candidate, Corey Curtis, aims to create better job opportunities. Meanwhile, three Liberals—Victoria Belbin, Nicole Kieley, and Tom Osborne—are competing for their party's nomination. This race reflects renewed vigor in the Liberal party. Recent polling suggests a shift in public opinion. While the Conservatives seemed set to win a majority, support for both major parties is now neck-and-neck, with some of the New Democrats’ support fading. The Conservatives are actively seeking to gain ground, contesting six of the seven ridings. In St. John’s East, Mary Shortall of the NDP is running against Liberal incumbent Joanne Thompson, who now serves as Minister of Fisheries. David Brazil is the Conservative candidate. The riding of Avalon will also see a new representative, as Ken McDonald steps away after years in Ottawa. The Long Range Mountains riding is also up for grabs, with Liberal Gudie Hutchings retiring. The Conservatives are fielding Carol Anstey, who nearly won in the last election. In Labrador, Yvonne Jones will not seek re-election after almost 12 years. Philip Earle is a leading candidate for the Liberals, while Conservative Ella Wallace is also in the race. This change in representatives and the growing interest reflects a significant moment in Newfoundland and Labrador politics as voters prepare for the upcoming federal election.