A long-time Calgary MP is jumping from federal to provincial politics.
Calgary-Centre MP Lee Richardson announced his surprise resignation in the House of Commons Wednesday afternoon.
'I am leaving to take up a new opportunity as principal secretary to the premier of Alberta, Alison Redford," says Richardson.
His voice cracking at times with emotion, the 64-year-old conservative thanked voters and staff.
Richardson has won five elections and his political career goes back to his days as John Diefenbaker's executive assistant.
His new job is a brand new position.
"He will serve as principal secretary, which means as a principal advisor to me," says Premier Alison Redford, "supporting the Chief of Staff, caucus, cabinet ministers, and being involved in particular policy files."
There is no word yet on when a by-election for Calgary-Centre will be called.
