Progressive Conservative MHA Keith Russell shared on Monday that he is leaving the party and will serve as an Independent member instead of aligning with the government.
“I make this decision with some sadness but with a clear conscience,” said Russell, who represents the Labrador district of Lake Melville.
Russell emphasized that his primary duty was to the people in his district.
“There are moments in public life where we must listen to our conscience and put the people we represent first,” he read from a prepared speech.
He assured that he would continue to be a strong advocate in the House of Assembly, “while continuing to uphold the conservative values that always have guided my public service.”
Newly Independent MHA Keith Russell shakes hands with fellow Labrador MHA Lisa Dempster, a Liberal, in the House of Assembly on Sept. 14, 2026. (Patrick Butler/Radio-Canada)
During a break, workers were seen moving a desk to another part of the House floor. Russell was observed shaking hands with Liberal MHA and Opposition House Leader Lisa Dempster.
Premier Tony Wakeham described Russell’s exit from the party as “disappointing” for those who voted for him and mentioned he had no prior knowledge about it.
“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,” Wakeham stated while speaking with reporters just outside the House of Assembly at around 11:30 a. m.
Russell’s announcement came at the beginning of a special session in the House of Assembly focused on Churchill River power.
The House went into recess right after his announcement, which took place just after terms for this special sitting were read out loud.
NDP Leader Jim Dinn was among the first politicians to talk to reporters following a recess triggered by Russell’s decision.
“I can honestly say I didn’t see that one coming,” he remarked.
Soon after, while standing next to Wakeham and answering questions just outside the House, Progressive Conservative MHA for Torngat Mountains Lela Evans suggested that Russell’s choice might be related to not being appointed as a cabinet member.
“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 about Churchill Falls or any new agreement and more about him not being made a new minister,” Evans commented.
She also mentioned that Russell hadn’t explained his reasoning behind his decision and noted she hadn’t spoken with him since it happened.
Russell didn’t take any questions from reporters at the House of Assembly. As they took their midday break and as he exited Confederation Building, he told CBC he wouldn’t answer questions then.</s
“Not right now,” he said.</s
“I’ve got to let my family know.”</s
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