Political reaction to McGuinty’s resignation

Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty announced Monday he was stepping down as Liberal party leader and adjourning the legislature. Here are some quotes following the announcement:

“Our two governments have worked together to serve Ontarians, from implementing Canada’s Economic Action Plan to keeping the auto industry in the province of Ontario, and I salute Mr. McGuinty’s many years of dedicated public service. On a personal level, I extend to Mr. McGuinty my very best wishes for all his future endeavours.” Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

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“I have never doubted his sincere commitment to the people in this great province of Ontario, and I thank him for his service.” Conservative Leader Tim Hudak.

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“I want to thank Dalton McGuinty for his years of service to people of Ontario. I know political life is often thankless but the work we do here is important. I want to thank the Premier for making those sacrifices and his family, who I know, have made their share of sacrifices too.” NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

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“For the last twenty two years, Mr. McGuinty has shown a deep and abiding commitment to public service and public life. In his nine years as Premier, Mr. McGuinty has made Ontario a global leader in education by introducing full-day kindergarten and by making post-secondary education more accessible and affordable than ever before.” Liberal Leader Bob Rae.

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“I would like to thank Mr. McGuinty for his service as Premier of Ontario. While we had different political views on some issues, Mr. McGuinty and I always had a very good working relationship as Mayor and Premier.  I wish him well and look forward to working closely with the next Premier of Ontario to advance the interests of the people of Toronto.” Mayor Rob Ford

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“Premier McGuinty served the people of Ontario well for sixteen years as a statesman, a fierce defender of his province and a leader in confederation. Our most recent conversations focused on Alberta and Ontario’s partnership and a shared interest in the growth and prosperity of Canada. Over the past year I have truly benefited from his views and opinions. I consider Premier McGuinty a valuable colleague as well as a friend.” Alberta Premier Alison Redford.

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“Premier McGuinty exercised real foresight in pledging support for a number of key industries, particularly the auto industry during the time of crisis. The province would have experienced dramatic and lasting mass unemployment without these efforts, and Ontarians do owe him a debt of gratitude in this regard.” CAW National President Ken Lewenza.