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Conservative party sees change in leadership as Andrew Scheer steps down

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Andrew Scheer has officially stepped down from his position as Conservative leader.

The Toronto Star reported that Scheer had been facing an uphill battle to keep his job amid the loss of the election.

Scheer reportedly told a small group of close advisors and MPs on Wednesday that he was done.

This announcement comes on the heels of Scheer reportedly using campaign funds to finance the move of his family as well as the private education of his five children.

The Star reported that Conservative Party Executive Director Dustin van Vugt confirmed that party donors “covered costs associated with moving [Scheer’s] family from Regina to Ottawa,” including a “differential in schooling costs.”

Scheer, at the time of writing, has given no indication that this is why he is stepping down.

Premier of Ontario, Doug Ford took to twitter to say, “I wish Andrew Scheer all the best as he undertakes this new chapter in his life, and thank him for his service as the head of her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition and leader of the Conservative Party.”

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also took to twitter to say, “Andrew, I wish you all the best in your next steps – in the House and beyond.  On behalf of Canadians, thanks for your service and commitment to building a better future.”

Choosing a new Conservative leader could take some time, however Scheer has committed to remaining in the role until such a decision has been made.

UPDATE — on Friday evening (Dec. 13), following Scheer’s announcement, it is being reported that the Conservative Party has fired Executive Director van Vugt and is launching a review of how funds and expenses are handled. This comes after the news that party funds were approved to pay the private-school tuition fees for some of Andrew Scheer’s children.

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