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After 6 years in the House of Assembly, Jordan Brown is bowing out of politics

After six years in political office, one of only two NDP members of the House of Assembly says he is not seeking re-election.

Labrador West MHA was first elected in 2019

A person wearing a suit with a small orange square pin smiles.
New Democratic Party MHA Jordan Brown says he's not seeking re-election. (Darrell Roberts/CBC)

After six years in political office, one of only two NDP members of the House of Assembly says he is not seeking re-election.

Labrador West MHA Jordan Brown made the announcement in a statement Friday afternoon.

"This wasn't an easy decision. It's been an incredible privilege to stand in the House of Assembly and advocate for Labrador West," he wrote.

"Over Easter, my family and I had a long conversation. I thought about how I was elected at 30 — now I'm 36."

Brown, who was first elected in 2019 and then re-elected in 2021, says he's proud of what he accomplished in his six years in office. He also thanked his wife and young children, who he says he wants to spend more time with.

"I've always tried to take a practical approach to politics, and I'm proud of what we've achieved together," he wrote. "That includes pushing for improvements to the [medical travel assistance] program, raising the alarm about the lack of housing for seniors, and fighting to get an addictions treatment centre in Labrador."

Brown says he will stay on as the member for Labrador West until the election is called, which has to happen by mid-October.

He also thanked NDP Leader Jim Dinn — the only other NDP MHA in the province — for his leadership and the support he's shown to the people of Labrador.

"We may have been a small caucus, but we packed a punch, and I know you'll keep that going. Support for New Democrats keeps growing, and it's been amazing to witness," Brown wrote.

Dinn says he respects Brown's decision to step away from politics and will continue to advocate for the people of Labrador.

"Working with Jordan has been a great experience, and while it's hard to see him go, I can only thank him for the work he has done advocating for the people of Labrador West," Dinn said in a party statement.

"We hope that this will not be the last that we see of Jordan Brown in politics. And, of course, I look forward to our future fishing trips."

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Elizabeth Whitten is a journalist and editor based in St. John's.