Dan Kutcher has resigned from his position as mayor of Summerside to vie for the leadership of the Prince Edward Island Liberal Party. Kutcher announced on Monday that he has been greenlit as a candidate for the leadership position in the party, which is in a phase of rebuilding after the departure of former leader Robert Mitchell.
Explaining his decision to run, Kutcher cited personal ambitions to continue his public service and a perceived necessity for change within the province. In an interview with CBC’s Island Morning, Kutcher emphasized the importance of establishing a clear vision, plans, and steps to execute change effectively and alter the course of the province.
He acknowledged the concerns and hesitations of Islanders about the future direction and expressed his determination to enhance their lives, bring about respectful and fair change, and give back to the community that has been significant to his family. Kutcher revealed that he is gearing up to launch his leadership campaign and reveal his priorities at an event in Summerside on September 13, as the deadline for nomination papers and approval looms on September 4.
Stressing his aspiration to become premier if he secures the leadership, Kutcher disclosed his intention to seek the Liberal nomination in District 21, Summerside-Wilmot, for the upcoming provincial election, irrespective of his leadership status. He acknowledged the incumbent Progressive Conservative MLA Tyler DesRoches in the district and affirmed his commitment to contesting the election, emphasizing the importance of running in one’s own community.
Having served as the mayor of Summerside for the past four years, Kutcher achieved a clean sweep in all eight of the city’s wards during his initial election. Following his recent decision not to seek re-election in the upcoming municipal vote in November, Kutcher highlighted that the transition process at city hall will adhere to the provincial legislation without necessitating any extraordinary measures or by-elections.
Although the participation of other candidates in the Liberal leadership race remains uncertain, Kutcher asserted his readiness for a contested race, emphasizing the need for a proactive and committed approach to the competition from the outset.