After being involved in politics for more than a dozen years, longtime Lethbridge businessman Mark Switzer announced he’s seeking to replace MP Rick Casson.

Switzer ran for mayor in 2001 and has been a member of several boards, more recently the Community Futures, University of Lethbridge Faculty of Management and Alberta Blue Cross.
Casson announced he’d be stepping down in January after the completion of his current term. Switzer has lived in Lethbridge since 1965 and is the owner of Carline Muffler. He eventually wants to get the federal Conservative nomination.
The nomination meeting is tentatively set for June 5 by the Electoral District Association board, but the actual date is yet to be determined.
 “I’ve been working very hard over the last 25 years, serving on several community boards that makes me no stranger to the federal issues that effect our area,” says Switzer.
Switzer recently graduated from the institute of Corporate Directors program at the University of Toronto, Rotman School of Business. He’s been recognized for his community involvement and for his business endeavours, receiving the Alberta Distinguished Service Award for outstanding volunteer experience, the Alberta Centennial Medal and the Chamber of Commerce small business of the year award.
Switzer’s wife Lea says that her husband has prepared for the position with all his involvement in the community over the years and feels that he understands the issues concerning the region.