Kellie Leitch

Dr. Khristinn Kellie Leitch, born on July 30, 1970, is a distinguished Canadian surgeon and former politician known for her impactful tenure as the Member of Parliament for Simcoe—Grey from 2011 to 2019. A member of the Conservative Party, she entered the political arena following the dismissal of Helena Guergis from the party caucus, marking the beginning of her significant contributions to Canadian politics.

Upon her election in the 2011 federal election, Leitch quickly ascended to a prominent role, serving as the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. Her capabilities were further recognized when, on July 15, 2013, she was appointed by Prime Minister Stephen Harper as the Minister of Labour and Minister for the Status of Women, a position she held until the Conservative government's defeat in the 2015 federal election.

In 2017, Leitch sought to lead the Conservative Party, showcasing her ambition and commitment to her political ideals. However, on January 23, 2018, she announced her decision to step back from politics and not seek re-election for the forty-third Canadian federal election, choosing instead to return to her roots as a full-time surgeon.