Kent Hehr pulls out of Calgary mayoral race, cites health reasons
Posted Sep 21, 2021 8:55 am.
Last Updated Sep 21, 2021 9:29 am.
CALGARY – He was once a prominent politician in Calgary, but it appears Kent Hehr’s quest to become the city’s mayor is now over.
NEW: Kent Hehr has announced he is withdrawing from Calgary's mayoral race after he became sick on Sunday. He is waiting for the results of a COVID test.
— Haley Jarmain (@HJarmain) September 21, 2021
The former Liberal MLA and MP is stepping away from his bid and says he could not be more disappointed.
RELATED: Kent Hehr to run for mayor of Calgary
Hehr is citing health reasons, as he may have contracted COVID-19.
“What further complicates things is that people with spinal cord injuries are a higher risk for COVID complications. Although I am double vaccinated, given the number of people with the Delta variant in Alberta and the ICUs being at or near capacity, the risks to my health are compounded,” he said in a statement.
He says his withdrawal is not because he is indifferent to the mayoral race and he’s still proud of the policies he put forward in his campaign.
“I believe in my heart that with a progressive mayor and council, our best days can truly lie ahead. It is my greatest hope that we get this result in the upcoming civic election,” he said.
“Although my campaign ended today, I still believe in the limitless potential of the city. I hope you will all become engaged in this campaign and vote for a more progressive, more fair, more dynamic Calgary for everyone.”
