Erin O'Toole

Erin Michael O'Toole is a Canadian lawyer, former military officer and politician.

Erin Michael O'Toole is a Canadian lawyer, former military officer, and politician. He led the Conservative Party of Canada and served as Leader of the Official Opposition from 2020 to 2022. He represented the riding of Durham in the House of Commons from 2012 to 2023.

Early life and education

Erin O'Toole was born in Montreal, Quebec, on January 22, 1973. He grew up in Bowmanville, Ontario. He attended the Royal Military College and later Dalhousie Law School.

Military and legal career

Before entering politics, O'Toole served for 12 years in the Canadian Armed Forces. He later worked as a corporate lawyer. His military and legal background have been a major part of his public profile.

Political career

O'Toole entered federal politics by winning a by-election in 2012 for the riding of Durham. He served as Minister of Veterans Affairs under Prime Minister Stephen Harper in 2015. He also held parliamentary secretary roles. He became leader of the Conservative Party in 2020.

Leadership of the Conservative Party

O'Toole led the Conservative Party of Canada and served as Leader of the Official Opposition from August 2020 to February 2022. His leadership ended after a caucus vote against him. He left Parliament in 2023.

Post-political career

After leaving politics, O'Toole moved into advisory and academic roles. He worked with ADIT North America, became a distinguished fellow at the Hudson Institute, and served as an adjunct professor at Huron University.