NDP MPs Carol Hughes and Rachel Blaney have joined Charlie Angus deciding not to participate in the upcoming federal election.
The federal New Democrats made a joint announcement, stating that all three are seeking more family time after serving the public for many years.
Angus, who has been in Parliament for 20 years, officially confirmed his plans to leave politics earlier on Thursday.
Changes in federal boundaries have also influenced their decision to retire from politics.
Angus’s northern Ontario riding of Timmins—James Bay will expand this month, and Angus says connecting with constituents in so many communities requires new energy.
Hughes, a longtime deputy Speaker representing northern Ontario, will see her riding of Algoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing disappear entirely in the next federal election.
Blaney, who is the party whip, says it’s time for her to prioritize her family and stay closer to home.
In a statement, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh expressed gratitude to all three for their years of advocacy and their contributions to the party.