La Salle’s Lauren Stone is learning the ropes and getting a feel for things in her first couple of months as the newly elected MLA for Midland, which encompasses the communities of Morris, Oak Bluff, La Salle, Aubigny, Rosenort, Carman, Roland, Roseisle, and St Claude.
Stone won the Midland riding for the Conservative party on Oct. 3 over NDP candidate Hannah Drudge by a 6,240 to 2,015 margin.
“It has been a whirlwind the past two months, but I am very honoured to be the MLA for Midland, and I am enjoying connecting with constituents across this great region,” said Lauren Stone.
Stone is a Queen’s University graduate and has professionally worked in the agri-food and manufacturing sectors, managing corporate affairs for Cargill, working for the Manitoba Beef Producers, and managing her own consulting business.
“Although I had a very strong working knowledge of the legislature prior to entering this role, it has still been a very positive learning experience,” said Stone. “Despite the short three-week legislative session, I participated in question period numerous times, holding the NDP to account on their $3 billion in campaign promises; I recognized the 110th celebration of 4-H Canada in Roland in my first member’s statement; and I had the opportunity to give my inaugural speech. I am also very much enjoying learning my roles as Critic for Families and Deputy Whip.”
With half of her caucus being new MLAs, Stone notes that her PC team has new energy, along with seasoned veterans.
“Together, our PC Team succeeded in challenging the NDP to amend Bill 3 (Fuel Tax Amendment Act), which is the initial bill to temporarily remove the 14-cent fuel tax for Manitobans as it failed to include farm equipment and dyed gas. Our PC Team successfully pressured the NDP to reverse course, pause the three-cent per litre tax on marked gas used in farm operations, and include off-road vehicles in the fuel tax cut.”
Outside the legislature, Stone has been busy setting up her constituency office, which is located on Main Street in Carman. She recently hosted a holiday open house at her office on Dec. 19.
“I am looking forward to connecting with constituents, organizations, and businesses so that I can advocate for your needs at the Manitoba Legislature,” said Stone. “I look forward to supporting events across the constituency and launching into our spring session to hold the NDP to account. Thank you for the honour of serving you in the Manitoba Legislature. I look forward to connecting in 2024, and I wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”
