Liberals tap Fred Hutton to run in Conception Bay East-Bell Island byelection

Three candidates have now been set in the upcoming Newfoundland and Labrador byelection in Conception Bay East-Bell Island, as the Liberal party has named Fred Hutton as its candidate.

Confirming one of the worst-kept secrets in provincial politics, Hutton was announced as the candidate Wednesday at an event that included Premier Andrew Furey and several government ministers. Hutton will run against the Progressive Conservative Party's Tina Neary and Kimberly Churchill representing the NDP.

Hutton's candidacy in the byelection was leaked last month, when PC Leader Tony Wakeham told reporters on Nov. 16 he already knew he would be the Liberal candidate. However, neither Hutton nor the Liberal Party would confirm his candidacy.

"So apparently, the rumours are true. It is Fred," Hutton said with a smile Wednesday night. "Although some people knew a month before I did, apparently."

Hutton is known across Newfoundland and Labrador as a prominent former journalist, with stints at NTV, VOCM and the CBC.

He has also served as an advisor to Furey since he was elected in 2020, and often travels with Furey to news conferences and events. Hutton told reporters he took a leave of absence from the office effective last week.

"Fred and I have spent countless hours together since 2020. Countless. I spent more time with Fred than I have with my beautiful wife," Furey said. "You get to know somebody when you spend that many hours together.… I am so proud to have Fred put his name forward."

A lifelong resident of the district, Hutton said he knows the issues of the region — a need for better health care, the rising cost of living and support for a growing small business sector.

Hutton said he hopes to take the fairness, compassion and people skills he learned as a journalist to the House of Assembly.

"There's something about this place. Not just Newfoundland and Labrador, but this community. I watched it grow. I've grown here, we raised our children here," he said.

"It's our home. I know the people, I know the issues, and you know me.… I will work hard for each and every person in this district every day."

The three candidates are vying to fill the chair of David Brazil, the former interim PC leader who will step away from politics to focus on his health. Brazil has said his last day is Dec. 29.

A date for the election hasn't been announced, but Furey told reporters he'll be thinking about it over the Christmas break. He confirmed a byelection will be called, and not a general election.

The district has voted Conservative for the last 20 years, but Furey said he, Hutton and his team are beginning the journey to turn the district red.