Former Alberta MP, Who Stepped Down to Let Poilievre Run, Hired by Communications Group

Conservative MP Damien Kurek, who announced he would give up his Alberta seat to allow Tory Leader Pierre Poilievre to run in a byelection in his riding, arrives for a meeting of the Conservative caucus on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on May 25, 2025. The Canadian Press/Justin Tang

Conservative MP Damien Kurek, who stepped down so Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre could have a chance at a seat in Parliament, has just announced his new role with Upstream Group, a strategic communications company.

Kurek, who was re-elected in the riding of Battle River—Crowfoot, offered to step down on May 2 after Poilievre lost his riding of Carleton during the federal election. A byelection for the Battle River—Crowfoot riding will be held on Aug. 18.