Home The Ambassador Letters Declining Leadership

Statement from Ambassador Frank McKenna

When I left the job of Premier of New Brunswick in 1997, I had spent fifteen years in public life: twelve years as leader of the Liberal Party of New Brunswick, two years as leader of the opposition, and ten years as Premier.

This period was the most intensely fulfilling time of my life. Unfortunately, it was also the most completely absorbing experience of my life. I became addicted to my responsibilities - seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day. I was unable to find the appropriate balance then and I am certain I would not be able to find the appropriate balance now.

I reminded myself this week of my vow upon leaving office that “having escaped the trap, I wouldn’t go back for the cheese”.

Contrary to the belief of some, being Prime Minister of Canada has not been a burning ambition for me. I didn’t accept the position of Ambassador in Washington to create a platform with such a motive. It was simply an opportunity to provide four more years of public service to my country.

Similarly, I did not resign from my position in Washington to pursue this goal.

This week, the result of the federal election and the resignation of the Prime Minister have forced me to give serious and immediate consideration to this opportunity.

I had to balance the enormous sense of obligation I felt to my party, my country, friends and supporters with what was right for me and my family. It was clear that any aspirant for this office must look at a time commitment of eight to ten years.

I love my country and would do anything for it, but I am not vain enough to believe that I alone can provide the leadership that our great country and party need at this time. I’ve dedicated almost sixteen years to public service, and I was proud and humbled to do so. I have done my share.

Having made this decision, I feel an enormous sadness at being unable to honour the support and aspirations of so many close friends and supporters.

I know, however, in my heart, that I will have no regrets.

Like so many other Canadians, I stand ready to serve my country in other ways.

Frank McKenna
Ambassador of Canada to the United States