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PC MHA Keith Russell Quits Progressive Conservatives for Independent

By Drooid · Sep 14, 2026, 8:03 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Keith Russell, PC MHA for Lake Melville, announced he is leaving the Progressive Conservatives to sit as an Independent.
He said he acted from conscience and to prioritize his constituents.
Premier Tony Wakeham called the departure disappointing, saying he had no prior discussion with Russell.
PC MHA Lela Evans suggested the move stemmed from Russell’s frustration over not receiving a cabinet post.

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Story summary

Keith Russell, PC MHA for Lake Melville, announced he is leaving the Progressive Conservatives to sit as an Independent.
He said he acted from conscience and to prioritize his constituents.
Premier Tony Wakeham called the departure disappointing, saying he had no prior discussion with Russell.
PC MHA Lela Evans suggested the move stemmed from Russell’s frustration over not receiving a cabinet post.