Looking ahead, and thinking of the future, Portage-Lisgar MP Branden Leslie is thrilled for several things, including the birth of his first child. The MP announced in a year-end interview with PembinaValleyOnline sister-portal, PortageOnline.
Top of mind for the new year, said Leslie, is the hope of having a healthy baby who inspires him to pave the way through politics for the generations to come.
"Often in politics, we get bogged down in the politics of now and in the four-year election cycles," says Leslie. "I look forward to making sure that all my decisions are grounded on that future generation and not just the struggles we face now, but how to set us up for prosperity in the long run."
As far as the work front is concerned, he notes the cost of living is the keynote that Conservative leader, Pierre Poilievre, has been focusing on - to drive down inflation, reduce and stabilize food prices, and the price of goods in this country.
"We're trying to get red tape out of the way, so we can unleash the job creators," continues Leslie. "Touring around this riding and seeing first-hand all of the entrepreneurship, all of the hard work, and all of the willingness to invest and build things here at home, it's amazing to see that passion. So, we're going to continue to focus on those pocketbook issues that people are facing every day, and not get distracted by the politics that other parties will undoubtedly throw at us."
He adds tangible solutions must be created
"Hearing from folks, whether that be emails or just out in the community, I always want people to come and speak frankly with me," notes Leslie. "I'll speak frankly right back about what's going on in Ottawa and what we can do to try to fight back on some of these important policy issues. But the more that I hear from folks, the more I appreciate it. It helps me do my job. Just as an encouragement to folks, please, if you have something on your mind, reach out. I'd rather know and not be able to do something about it, than not know and have the chance to do so."