Veteran conservative radio host and journalist Andrew Lawton has announced his bid for the Conservative Party of Canada’s nomination in a newly created London-area riding, just one day after the incumbent MP said she would not seek re-election.
Lawton made the announcement Wednesday on his radio program, saying the decision came after deep personal reflection. “An opportunity arose, and I reflected on it with family, I prayed on it, and I’ve reached the decision I’m sharing with you now,” he told listeners.
“I’ve spent my whole career advocating for conservatism, for freedom, for common sense,” Lawton said. “As I’ve looked at the political landscape and thought about how I can best serve, this is an opportunity I do not want to pass up.”
Lawton is seeking the Conservative nomination in the new riding of Elgin–St. Thomas–London South, following Tuesday’s announcement by longtime MP Karen Vecchio that she will not run again. Vecchio’s decision came as a surprise to some, as the Conservative Party had only recently confirmed her candidacy for the next federal election on June 12.
Speaking to a local radio station, Vecchio said that by the time of the next election, expected in 2025, she will have served 10 years in Parliament. She added that she believes politicians have “expiry dates” and felt it was time to step away from federal politics.
Lawton has recently gained national attention with the release of his book Pierre Poilievre: A Political Life, published in May. The biography chronicles Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s political journey from his early beginnings through his first year as party leader, a role he assumed in September 2022. The book has further established Lawton as a prominent voice within a resurgent conservative movement that appears to be gaining ground in public opinion.
In media appearances promoting the book, Lawton has described Poilievre’s career as one marked by growth and change, suggesting that a potential Poilievre government would see a “very eventful” first 100 days if the Conservatives form government.
Beyond radio, Lawton has served as managing editor of True North, a right-wing media outlet. He also has a long broadcasting history, having filled in for current Alberta Premier Danielle Smith on her former radio show, as well as hosting segments on The Roy Green Show, a program often described as must-listen radio for federal politicians.
Following his nomination announcement, Lawton said he will be taking a leave of absence from his on-air work and stepping back from his editorial role to focus on the campaign.
This is not Lawton’s first foray into electoral politics. In 2018, he ran as a candidate for the Ontario Progressive Conservatives, a campaign that drew some criticism over past public comments.
On his campaign website, Lawton outlines key priorities, pledging to “fight tirelessly” for local residents, defend free speech, oppose the expansion of medical assistance in dying to people whose sole underlying condition is mental illness, and push to defund the CBC.
The Conservative nomination race in Elgin–St. Thomas–London South is expected to draw attention as the party prepares for the next federal election.
