Former B.C. minister Mike de Jong seeks federal Tory nomination [Video]

One of British Columbia’s longest-serving MLAs has launched a campaign to run for the Conservative Party of Canada in the next federal election.

Mike de Jong is seeking the federal Conservative nomination in Abbotsford-South Langley, a new riding which encompasses much of the provincial constituency he has represented for the B.C. United Party — formerly known as the B.C. Liberal Party — since 1994.

“I am joining [Conservative Leader] Pierre Poilievre’s common-sense movement, in support of the only leader who has the courage to discuss Canada’s need for fiscal responsibility,” said de Jong in a Wednesday news release.

“I want to represent the people of Abbotsford-South Langley and bring responsible leadership to Ottawa.”

The veteran MLA and cabinet minister announced he would not seek re-election in February, putting a cap on a 30-year career in provincial politics that saw him lead numerous ministries — including finance, health and justice — …