The roller-coaster ride that has been Glenn Thibeault's political career for the last 3 ½ years came to an end Thursday.
The man who was once the most popular politician in Sudbury finished third, behind winner Jamie West and Tory challenger Troy Crowder.
Thibeault, a former resident of North Bay, was a popular New Democrat MP for the federal party when he decided to run for the Liberals in the February 2015 byelection. The ensuing scandal involving spurned candidate Andrew Olivier led to a bribery scandal that ended in acquittals but left a bad taste in the mouth of many local voters.
But Thursday, Thibeault said he regretted nothing and was grateful for all he was able to accomplish as MPP and energy minister under Kathleen Wynne's Liberals.
"I have absolutely been blessed since I've gotten into politics, to have fantastic people around me,” Thibeault told a subdued crowd at The Tap House on Regent Street. “It's never been so great until the last few years when I became the minister of energy, the team I had in that ministry and the team I had here with me, you guys are absolutely fantastic."
He became emotional when he thanked his family, who not only endured hostility from some residents after he crossed the floor but had to deal with his frequent absences from home.
"My wife and daughters — I know one is hiding because she's having a hard time understanding what this is all about — I couldn't have done the last 10 years without you,” Thibeault said. “I love you all so much.
"I've been able to do what I've always wanted to do, which is help our community, be part of the common good and make a difference in the lives of people."
In an interview after his concession speech, Thibeault shot down a rumour that he was going to run for mayor.
"I'm not running for municipal politics,” he said. “I'm going to take some time and figure things out a little bit. I've got a family I really want to reconnect with, I've got two daughters who are 14 and 10 who I love immensely. I've missed basketball practices, I've missed dance recitals, I've missed a lot of things.
"I respect the fact the people of Sudbury made a choice that they wanted to go a different route. They did that for me in the past, so I have nothing but good things to say about my 10 years in public service. I wish Jamie all the best as MPP and I'll help him as best I can in that transition."
Thibeault didn't rule out an eventual return to politics — "I'm 48 years old, I hope that's still considered young since my dad when he passed away he was 101" – but said, for now, he's happy with what he was able to do as MPP, despite all the turmoil.
"I have absolutely no regrets,” he said. “What we've been able to accomplish for this community in three years has been fantastic. In my 10 years in politics, I've been able to serve and help people. That's the only reason I got into politics.
"Ultimately, this was a tough three years. I get that. You know what? Being the minister of energy and MPP for Sudbury, taking on these issues, we've done some great things. I wouldn't have changed a thing."
Despite the upbeat message, he ended his concession speech with a hint of the strain of the last few years.
"This is probably the last time you're going to hear me talk for awhile, which is probably good for a few of you," Thibeault said. "All right, I need a drink."
