A retired colonel with the Canadian Armed Forces will seek the Conservative nomination in the Bruce-Grey Owen Sound riding for the fall federal election.
Alex Ruff, who grew up on a farm just outside of Tara, said he has spent his entire adult life in service and sees the Conservative nomination as a way to give back to all those who have helped him through his military career.
Ruff issued a news release Friday afternoon, shortly after current MP Larry Miller announced his retirement.
Ruff feels the "growing divide between urban and rural" is an important issue in the riding, and Ottawa needs a "strong voice that represents this community".
Ruff officially kicked off his campaign Sunday afternoon at the Tara Community Centre, where he delivered remarks to a small crowd of supporters.