Former MP says it’s too soon to decide her future

SUSAN KADIS lost to Peter Kent in the election on Oct. 14.

It’s a time of reflection for Susan Kadis.

Barely a week after being unseated by Conservative Peter Kent in the Oct. 14 federal election, the Thornhill Liberal says it’s still too soon to make any decisions about her future.

“I need now a little bit of time to reflect and think about what’s the next best step for me and my family,” she said Monday. “That’s what I’m doing right now.”

Since election night, Kadis has fielded several calls of support, including from members of the community she calls home.

“That’s been very, very positive for me,” Kadis said. “It’s always been about that for me, is the people, the relationships, the community’s interests.”

Despite the surprising outcome last Tuesday night, she said her desire to help has not dulled.

“My passion will continue for the best interests of our community, our province and our country,” Kadis said. “It will continue without question and it’s as strong as ever.”

The now-former MP has been a fixture on Thornhill’s political stage for decades. She entered public life in 1988 when she was elected to a school trusteeship. In 1997, she won a seat on Vaughan city council, then jumped to the federal stage in 2004.

“I want to thank each and every person who voted for me,” Kadis said. “That’s very important to me. I really, really appreciate that so much.”

As the longtime politician now ponders her future, she has not ruled out another shot at elected office.

“There’s always important initiatives to work on and build toward,” Kadis said. “I’m a forward-thinking person, first and foremost, and a community builder.

“That is as strong as ever and that’s where my decisions on how I proceed next will come from.”

Vaughan Today
In print: October 24, 2008, page 2
Online: October 26, 2008 [link]