Full Breakdown
Keith Russell Leaves Progressive Conservatives to Sit as Independent
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Lake Melville MHA Keith Russell announced on Monday that he is leaving the Progressive Conservative (PC) caucus and will serve as an Independent member of Newfoundland and Labrador’s House of Assembly. The announcement came at the start of a special sitting on the Churchill River power agreement, prompting an immediate recess of the House.
Official Statements & Responses
Premier Tony Wakeham described the departure as “disappointing” for voters and noted that no discussion preceded the move. He reiterated that Russell remained free to choose his affiliation. NDP leader Jim Dinn said he “didn’t see that one coming,” confirming the surprise among opposition parties. Russell declined to take questions from reporters, stating “Not right now.”
Criticism from Labrador Affairs Minister
Labrador Affairs Minister Lela Evans suggested the split was tied to Russell’s exclusion from cabinet. Evans added that Russell had not explained his reasons directly to her and that she had not spoken with him since the announcement.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I make this decision with some sadness but with a clear conscience,” — Keith Russell, who represents the Labrador district of Lake Melville
- “There was no discussion with Mr. Russell prior to the announcement. He was in our caucus this morning, and he's decided he wants to sit as an Independent and that's his choice,” — Dempster. Premier Tony Wakeham
- “We’re disappointed. He has been close with many caucus members. He did indicate he was disgruntled. He did indicate that he was not pleased that he wasn't a minister. He has told it to many of us. We can attest to that. So I think it's less to do with Churchill Falls, the new agreement, and the actual fact that he’s not a new minister,” — Lela Evans, labrador affairs minister
The departure leaves the PC government without a member from the Lake Melville district and raises questions about internal party dynamics ahead of the upcoming power-agreement deliberations.