SURREY - Surrey mayor Dianne Watts is hoping to dive into politics on a bigger stage, saying world events - and Canada's role in foreign affairs - has compelled her to seek a seat with Stephen Harper's federal Conservatives.
Watts will seek the nomination for South Surrey-White Rock after "considerable reflection" on what she wanted to do after she leaves the mayor's chair this fall.
Watts said she had spoken with both the federal Liberals and Conservatives but felt more aligned with the Harper government's policies around issues such as economic investment and taxation. She maintains a federal seat will also help her advocate for Surrey, particularly in the push for light rail, the movement of goods and safety on the rail corridor running through the area.
In March, longtime MP Russ Hiebert announced he would not run again.
Kelly Sinoski
Vancouver Sun