Ian McNaughton Announces Bid for Conservative Nomination in Parry Sound–Muskoka

GRAVENHURST, ON – Ian McNaughton, a longtime Gravenhurst resident, local business owner and community leader, has announced that he is seeking the Conservative Party of Canada nomination in Parry Sound–Muskoka, following the resignation of former Member of Parliament Scott Aitchison.

McNaughton and his wife, Tara, have called Gravenhurst home since 2010, where they have raised their four children on their family farm. Together, they own and operate three Home Hardware stores, in Gravenhurst, Parry Sound and Bancroft, and have spent the past 15 years building businesses, creating jobs and supporting the communities they serve.

“Parry Sound–Muskoka is our home. It’s where Tara and I have raised our family, built our businesses and become deeply involved in our communities,” said McNaughton. “I’ve spent my career working with people, solving problems, managing budgets and making tough decisions. I’m running because I believe that experience, combined with a genuine commitment to public service, can make a difference for the people of this riding.”

Before becoming a local business owner, McNaughton spent more than 15 years in the technology industry, holding senior leadership positions with major international companies. Today, he serves on the Board of Directors of Home Hardware Stores Limited, including its Audit & Risk and Strategic Committees.

His commitment to community service extends well beyond business. McNaughton has served as an officer with the Gravenhurst Fire Department and as an instructor at the Ontario Fire College. He has supported numerous community organizations, service clubs and minor hockey associations throughout Muskoka and Parry Sound. He also serves as a Director of Canadian Western Agribition, reflecting his longstanding connection to agriculture and rural communities.

McNaughton says affordability, access to healthcare and responsible government will be central priorities as he seeks the Conservative nomination.

“I see the impact of rising prices every day, both at our store checkouts and in conversations with customers, employees and local contractors,” said McNaughton. “Families are struggling with the cost of groceries, housing, fuel and everyday essentials. Small businesses are dealing with rising operating costs and economic uncertainty. We need a federal government that understands these pressures and is focused on making life more affordable.”

As a father of four, McNaughton says he is particularly concerned about the opportunities available to the next generation.

“I want our children, and every young person growing up in Parry Sound–Muskoka, to have the opportunity to build a career, afford a home and raise a family in the communities they love. That should not be an unrealistic dream.”

A longtime Conservative, McNaughton has been actively involved with the Parry Sound–Muskoka Conservative Electoral District Association since 2019 and supported Scott Aitchison through his nomination and federal election campaigns. Earlier this year, he represented the riding as an elected delegate at the Conservative Party’s national convention in Calgary.

“Scott Aitchison has been a strong advocate for Parry Sound–Muskoka, and I appreciate his years of service to our communities,” said McNaughton. “As we look to the future, I believe our riding needs a representative who understands the unique challenges facing our towns, rural communities, families and businesses, and who will work tirelessly to make sure their voices are heard in Ottawa.”

McNaughton believes his combination of business leadership, financial discipline, community involvement and Conservative principles would allow him to be an effective representative from his first day in Parliament.

“I believe in fiscal responsibility, accountable government and protecting the freedoms and opportunities Canadians value,” said McNaughton. “I’ve spent my career building businesses and serving this community. Now I’m ready to bring that experience and commitment to Ottawa.”

McNaughton will be meeting with Conservative members and residents throughout Parry Sound–Muskoka in the coming weeks as the nomination process gets underway.