Liberal campaign co-chair steps down after email to people behind Energy East with lobbying advice

OTTAWA — Justin Trudeau’s national campaign co-chair is stepping down after he sent a detailed email to people behind the Energy East pipeline with advice on how and when to lobby a new government — including a Liberal minority.

Earlier in the day the Liberals stood by Dan Gagnier, saying he did not break any ethical standards. But in a statement later Wednesday, Gagnier said he didn’t want to be a distraction to the campaign.

“I deeply regret that the campaign has been affected by these negative, personal attacks,” the statement reads.

“I have always conducted my business openly and in full accordance with the rules. In the best interests of the party, I have taken this decision. I continue to support Justin Trudeau and hope for a Liberal government on Oct. 19.”

In a statement of its own, the Liberal party said it respects Gagnier’s decision, but blames the controversy on the Conservatives and their “negative and mean-spirited politics.”

In the email, a copy of which was obtained by The Canadian Press, Gagnier advises five TransCanada Corp. officials to target the right people in a new government as quickly as possible so they can help shape either Liberal or NDP decisions on a national energy strategy.