CANDICE Bergen, Interim Leader of Canada’s Conservatives and the Official Opposition, who was elected on Wednesday after Erin O’Toole was ousted as leader in a 73-45 vote by Conservative MPs, said in a statement: “I would also like to thank my colleagues for putting their trust in me to lead the Conservative Party. I will work hard every day to earn that trust.

“As we move forward, it’s important that Conservatives come together from coast-to-coast-to-coast to focus on Justin Trudeau’s cost of living crisis, his divisive approach that is threatening our national unity, and his repeated ethical scandals.

“I’m ready, and so is our caucus. Over the next few months, my colleagues and I will be listening and acting. My goal as Interim Leader is to strengthen our movement and leave the next leader with a party that’s ready to win.”

She thanked O’Toole, his wife Rebecca, and his kids Mollie and Jack for their service to the Conservative Party and the country, adding: “The professionalism and dedication that Erin brought to the job is something that I will continue as Leader of the Conservative Party.”