Dear Diary: Rookie MPPs Share Thoughts on Their First Month(s) in Office As It Happened

When parliamentarians are asked to think back about their first few days or weeks on the job, frequently they’ll describe it as being mostly a blur. There is so much to learn, so many people to meet, so much information to absorb, and so much to do; often, only a few special moments stand out. But getting a sense of what these early days are like would undoubtedly be helpful for politicians who hope to follow in their footsteps and want to know what to expect. The Canadian Parliamentary Review asked two newly elected Members of Provincial Parliament in Ontario to keep a record of their first 30 days after election night on February 27, 2025, in which they would briefly note what was happening and how they were feeling. Prior to publishing these notes, the MPPs were also asked if they wanted to add information on other notable days that occurred in the interim, and to offer any thoughts about what they’ve learned as they found their footing in the Assembly.

Joseph Racinsky, MPP and Tyler Watt, MPP

Joseph Racinsky is MPP for Wellington-Halton Hills (Progressive Conservative). Tyler Watt is MPP for Nepean (Liberal). They were elected to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario for the first time on February 27, 2025.

Joseph Racinsky MPP for Wellington-Halton Hills (Progressive Conservative)

Day 1

Feeling excited and overwhelmed. Spending time returning all the messages of congratulations, and putting together a list of supporters who should be thanked for their efforts over the past few weeks.

Spent some time picking up signs and clearing out the campaign office. Wrote a letter to the Town of Halton Hills formally resigning my seat on municipal council.

Received onboarding information from the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.

Days 2 and 3

I came down with a bad cold on Saturday. I think the adrenaline of campaigning had been holding it at bay! Received my email for personal use and filled out two applications for the Legislature – one for my new phone, and another for official name spelling on documents such as the oath of allegiance.

Day 4

Scheduled meetings with potential staff and the outgoing MPP. Was invited to the first Caucus meeting that will take place later this week. Had a virtual meeting with Legislature staff, going over the global budget, personal financial information, and benefits. I attended the Halton Hills council meeting where my successor was chosen, and I was recognized for my service and congratulated. My wife was able to join me, and I was very thankful for the warm goodbye from my council colleagues.

Day 5

Visited the outgoing MPP’s office, got a key, and met with a potential staff member who was interested in staying on. I was able to get a good understanding of how things had run during our conversation.

Day 6

First Caucus meeting in Queen’s Park. It was good to meet a number of the newly elected members. I received my security pass from the Legislature and had headshots done. I was also able to order thank you cards with my name and new title. Spoke with PC Caucus Services about the process for hiring staff and had a contract done up for a staff member to begin on March 10.

I had a lovely lunch with my predecessor, and we discussed a number of things pertaining to life as an MPP. That evening, I went to my first public event, a celebration of my predecessor put on by the County of Wellington. I coordinated volunteers to clear out what remained in the campaign office tomorrow. My local riding association scheduled a meeting to go over the campaign and finances on March 15.

Day 7

MPP Orientation Day. A very informative day put on by the Clerk and Legislature staff. Each organization within the Legislature gave a presentation to let us know what services were available. Three sitting MPPs from all parties participated in a panel, which provided some very helpful insight. Enjoyed a group lunch with staff and all new members. The most helpful part of the day was a “job fair” at the end of the day, when all the branches had booths set up for us to ask questions and get information. Technology Services were also there to get us set up right away with our devices. Human Resources and Finance were there to ensure we had filled out all the necessary forms. It was extremely helpful to have all those things available in one place. I also picked up the thank you cards. That evening, I visited the campaign office to grab everything that was left and closed it for good.

Day 8

Spent the day at the constituency office in Fergus with the new staff member. Cleaning up the office and sorting out final payroll forms.

Days 9 and 10

Able to take some personal time this weekend. A chance to take a breath and spend some much-needed time with my family.

Day 11

Morning Caucus meeting, created an MPP social media page, wrote an article for the Halton Hills Chamber of Commerce publication.

Day 12

Morning Interview with YourTV Halton. Visited the constituency office to get a number of small things in order. Met with another potential staff person. The office is starting to come together, and I’m thankful I was able to get it up and running so quickly. I strongly believe that the people need their MPP.

Day 13

Spent the day at the constituency office working with my staff to order the necessary materials for the office, sort through the furniture, and ensure the security system and internet were set up and paid for. The Assembly’s technology division came to the office and updated all the computers and monitors. Received an invitation to the Cabinet’s swearing-in ceremony on March 19.

Day 14

Met with the Chief Librarians for Wellington County and Halton Hills. Continued to work out of the constituency office, getting my calendar put together. Created a job description to be posted for an executive assistant position. Approved the design for promotional materials and office signage.

Day 15

Spent the morning in the constituency office and then took an inventory of the election signs we recovered. Picked up gifts for some key volunteers. Officially signed the finalized lease to take over my predecessor’s constituency office, including some renovations that will begin in early April.

Day 16

Morning meeting with my Electoral District association to go over the campaign and the finances. Afternoon event at the Fergus Legion, Zone C-3 convention. I brought greetings on behalf of the Province of Ontario and helped present two King Charles III medals. This was my first official event as MPP, and it was a humbling experience. I am so privileged to be in this position.

Day 17

Attended church and took a day of rest.

Day 18

Officially sworn in as the 1077th person to serve the people of Ontario as a Member of Provincial Parliament. Was able to take my wife on a tour of Queen’s Park, and we enjoyed a visit with my predecessor. Feeling very thankful.

Day 19

Got some much-needed work done on my vehicle (there’s been a lot of travel). Stopped in the constituency office to sign some forms. I have a bad cold again, probably not getting enough sleep!

Day 20

Attended the swearing-in ceremony of Cabinet. It took place at the Royal Ontario Museum. It was great to see so many of my Caucus colleagues, and am feeling proud of our leader, Premier Ford.

Day 21

Spent the day in the constituency office catching up and reviewing resumes. Wrote an article for the Centre Wellington Chamber of Commerce publication. Was interviewed by Elora/Fergus Today, an online news organization. Attended a meeting of the Georgetown Agricultural Society (I’m currently serving as its secretary).

Day 22

I attended the Mayor’s Breakfast put on by the Erin Chamber of Commerce. Met with a potential staff member at the constituency office, as well as the Mayor of Centre Wellington and a council colleague of mine from Halton Hills.

Day 23

Busy day driving around the riding. I attended a grand opening for a shop in Acton. After that, I was able to attend a curling fundraiser in Fergus. Got there just as the bagpipes started to play for the opening ceremony!

Day 24

Back to church for a day of rest.

Day 25

I had the opportunity to show some family friends around Queen’s Park. It’s still hard to believe that I am able to work here!

Day 26

I met with another potential staff person and conducted a few other interviews. I was able to offer one of them a position starting April 2. I had the privilege of calling a couple of our hospitals with some funding news. In the evening, I presented a certificate to the Georgetown Bread Basket as they received the Citizen of the Year award.

Day 27

I spoke with MPP Mike Schreiner, he wanted to share his priorities as an opposition member and develop a good relationship with me as his only neighbour. I met with the Canadian Mental Health Association of Waterloo-Wellington at their main site in Guelph and then went to Queen’s Park for a reception celebrating Greek Heritage Month.

Day 28

I toured the Georgetown Hospital and had lunch with Wellington County Council in Guelph. Lots of driving! After lunch, I had an opportunity to meet with the Warden and Chief Administrative Officer to discuss issues that are important to the County. I was able to offer another individual a position in my office starting April 2. I also received the schedule for Private Member Bills. My slot is in October, looking forward to hearing some ideas from constituents on what they feel would be beneficial.

Day 29

Spent the day in the constituency office meeting with…

• a local couple
• President of Metropolitan University of Toronto
• Hope Spring Cancer Support
• a landowner and the Mayor of Puslinch
• St. Joseph’s Health System

Thankful for my staff and how they are able to manage my already busy schedule effectively!

Day 30

Attended a Food4Kids food drive in Georgetown. Great to see members of Halton Hills Council again!

Some other memorable days

April 16, 2025

Today, I had the privilege of giving my inaugural speech in the Legislature. Yesterday, they were asking for volunteers but few people were ready, so I said I would be happy to go. Stayed up all night last night writing the speech! An incredible experience being able to stand in that beautiful place and share a bit about myself and the hopes and dreams of the people I represent.

May 1, 2025

Was able to have lunch with a page from my riding. It was fun to hear her perspective on what goes on at the Legislature. We are in many ways experiencing it for the first time together. I’m really thankful for the opportunity to be an inspiration to other young people.

Other notes

One of the most difficult and unexpected aspects of becoming an MPP is the need to hire staff and manage an office. We don’t have large teams, and it’s not easy work. It’s important to find good people and find them quickly. This is definitely a big part of the first 30 days. I am very thankful to have found the staff that I have.

One, the most rewarding parts of the job is being able to share good news with your constituents. Whether it’s a community group or municipal project, it feels really good to help solve people’s issues.

Personal days are very important, and I’m thankful that I have mostly been able to reserve Sundays for worship. My predecessor shared that Premier Mike Harris would encourage his members to reserve one weekend a month for family. I’m not sure how many followed that advice, but it’s good advice.

I try to be in the constituency office as much as possible. Whether it’s keeping up on the concerns of residents or being accessible to the community, I definitely like to be in the office when possible.

Tyler Watt MPP for Nepean (Liberal)

Election Night

I’m overwhelmed with gratitude and still in shock – Nepean made history, and I’m ready to get to work. I am tired, but had an amazing celebration with my team, friends, and family.

Day 1

A 6:30 am interview with CBC morning about the election and win. Barely slept from all of the adrenaline. Phone hasn’t stopped buzzing. I’m answering messages from friends, family, and future colleagues – trying to soak it all in. Wish I could go to bed, but have to go to the campaign office to empty and clean it as we have to be out by end of day. Bittersweet – we built something special here.

Day 2

With the campaign office closed, I spent the day relaxing with loved ones, reflecting on how far we’ve come. This victory belongs to every volunteer and voter who believed in a better Nepean. I spent a few hours responding to messages and calling people to thank them.

Day 3

Spent the day organizing and planning my week. I also need to hire staff. Thankfully, I had an idea of two people from my campaign who I knew wanted to work for me. That is a good starting point. I am lucky to have colleagues in my party who are incumbents and have been through this before. They have been incredibly helpful and always there to answer any question I have – such as, how many staff do I need for the constituency? I have to book a flight and hotel in Toronto for orientation. Barely had any room on my credit card to pay for this, as I took a month off from work to run. Stressful!

Day 4

Virtual onboarding meeting with Ontario’s Legislature. I am blown away by how supportive and helpful the staff are – especially with how overwhelming, new, and fast this process is. In the evening, I held my first meeting post-election with several key stakeholders. People are hopeful – and I feel the weight of their trust and hope.

Day 5

Interviews with Ottawa Citizen and iPolitics about our win in Nepean. It still feels surreal. Also spoke with a realtor who is going to help me find a place in Toronto. Things are starting to feel real and even more exciting. Packed for my trip to Toronto for in-person orientation. I have one suit I have been wearing for years. I hope it’s enough. I also need to learn how to tie a tie.

Day 6

My first time ever flying direct to Toronto for the sole purpose of going there. Checking into a hotel. Worried I forgot things in Ottawa. I am not used to living out of a suitcase. I had dinner with former Premier Kathleen Wynne this night. That was really special.

Day 7

Official onboarding has begun. Security photos, HR paperwork, and orientation – this is real. Sitting in the Legislature Chamber – I am absolutely blown away. The room is beyond words. All of the new MPPs around me are filled with excitement and nerves. It was nice to have four other new MPPs from my Caucus there as well. A great bonding experience for us all, regardless of party.

Day 8

Walked through Queen’s Park and felt a mix of awe and responsibility. This place holds so much history – and now I’m part of it. I went up to the fourth floor, where my office will be. Fun fact – I interned for former MPP Mitzie Hunter for a summer while in nursing school, and my office is now that office. Travelled back to Ottawa.

Day 9

I didn’t expect the travel to be as exhausting as it is, but perhaps that is recovery from the election. I attended my first official event as MPP for International Women’s Day. I felt honoured to stand in solidarity with the women in my life and my community who’ve inspired my journey.

Day 10

I now have access to the Parliamentary Portal and Member’s Guide. I read through every page, now having more questions than I started with. Having an office budget and being a boss is a new thing for me. I have always worked independently within a team as a nurse. I want to make sure I do this right and have the opportunity to lead a happy and productive team. Sat down to sketch out early goals – both for the riding and for Queen’s Park.

Day 11

My first question: How do I balance the pace here with the needs back home in Nepean? The answer is: build a great team. The Ontario Liberal Party now has party status and is hiring/ creating our Liberal Caucus Services Bureau. They will be a great resource, but I feel the need to get going with the constituency office, especially before I return to Toronto. I have hired two staff – both from my riding. They will be here to help me get the constituency office set up, and one will come with me to Toronto during sitting weeks.

Day 12

Spent the day replying to messages, making phone calls, and setting up meetings. I am not the most organized person in the world, but this new role is forcing me to improve on this. My calendar has never looked so full.

Day 13

Traveled to Toronto for my first official Caucus meeting. I’m the new kid, but I feel welcomed. I don’t have much to say right now. I am absorbing as much information and wisdom as I can.

Day 14

Traveled back to Ottawa for several events. I spoke at a local mosque, now for the first time as MPP. It feels special hearing “congratulations” so much. It is inspiring to see so many smiles and hope in people from my community.

Day 15

Got a tour of the constituency office that I am taking over from the previous member. My staff and I were so excited walking through it, imagining all of the things we can do, where I can have meetings with constituents, and how I want to set up my office.

Day 16

I forgot that I am a person and need some self-care. Hair cut, groceries, laundry, bills. Having neglected so many home duties, this was a good reminder. I am in an entirely new world and will have to figure out how to navigate work and home life.

Day 17

Coffee with a high school teacher who inspired me. Full-circle moment. Preparing for the week ahead. Increasing rumours a Federal election is coming. Good thing I haven’t put away my door-knocking clothes.

Day 18

Today I was honoured with the “Champion of Care” award at the hospital I’ve worked at over the past five years. This was a very special thing to receive, especially as I leave my full-time position as a nurse and transition into my new job as an MPP. I will be staying on casually as a nurse to keep my license, skills, and head on the ground. It will be strange not working at the hospital as much, especially with how comfortable I am at that job.

Traveled to Toronto in the evening to prepare for my swearing-in tomorrow. Dry-cleaned my one black suit, which I’ve never done before. I’m used to scrubs.

Day 19

Today is a busy day. I joined several new Liberal MPPs for our first television interview with TVO. I have been a fan of Steve Paikin and this show for a very long time. It is beyond amazing that I get to be on this panel. I was really nervous, and it was a brand new experience. Being put in makeup, prepped for possible topics and questions, having my hair adjusted before being filmed. I was really nervous, but I was proud of the interview result.

Caucus meeting next. Swearing-in at 4 pm. My family, friends, and team travelled from Ottawa to Toronto to come and be a part of this ceremony. My face hurts from smiling so much. I cannot wait to see the pictures.

Day 20

I met with the Leader of my party to discuss critic portfolios. I asked for something related to health care and education. Very exciting to think I will be a critic of the Government and able to bring my experience as a nurse to the Legislature.

Day 21

Ontario Nurses Association rally/ protests occurring throughout the province. I was able to attend one in Ottawa. It was surreal being there not only as a nurse, but now as an MPP. To see hope again in my colleagues meant the world.

I found out I will be the critic for Long-Term Care and Colleges, Universities, and Training. I am thrilled to have been given those portfolios.

Day 22

Finally have access to the constituency email and phones – which have been ringing off the hook today with news from the local school board. Parents are concerned. I am not sure how to proceed with this, but thankfully, I have several colleagues in Ottawa who are experienced and are also receiving the same feedback. So, we had our first post-election Ottawa Caucus meeting to discuss how to handle this. It is exciting being a part of this team of MPPs.

Day 23

It’s a Saturday, but tonight I got to do a live on-air interview with CTV News Ottawa. We discussed the election and my win in Nepean. Again, a very fun experience. I am starting to get used to always doing new things. Not much time to think or worry about them. Trying to enjoy the moment.

Day 24

Had a celebratory dinner with my mother and brother. Tried my best not to check my phone and spend all day answering texts and emails. It’s hard because I find it incredibly fun. I learned my House duty schedule – meaning when I have to be sitting in the Chamber.

Day 25

Back to Toronto for my next Caucus meeting and setting things up at Queen’s Park. Learned a ton about how the Caucus Services Bureau operates and what’s to come. I cannot wait to get started at Queen’s Park when the House sits. I’ve learned I will be a Second Vice-Chair for a committee. I do not know what this means yet, but it sounds exciting.

Day 26

Traveled back to Ottawa. Interviewed several people for positions at my constituency office. Visited a school to speak with students about civics and the provincial government, and my role as MPP. Funny trying to share with them my role as I am freshly learning about it. Got advice from MPP John Fraser to start working on my inaugural speech. I’ve had some thoughts in my head about it, but probably should put it down on paper.

Day 27

Today, someone called me “MPP Watt”. That felt strange. I said you can just call me Tyler. It’s a privilege and an honour to be in this position, and I will never take it for granted.

Day 30

I can’t believe it’s been a full month. It’s flown by. I’ve laughed, I’ve cried, and I’ve never felt more alive or excited. Thirty days in – I’m still learning, still growing, and still honoured to serve. This is just the beginning.

Some other memorable days

April 3, 2025

Constituency office staff training from the Liberal Caucus Service Bureau. I had so many questions, but appreciate how much information was shared here. It is a lot, especially never having been involved in this role before. I am excited about the fact that I will have an office dedicated to helping people. I want to learn as much as possible.

April 14, 2025

House now sitting. I am now sitting at my own desk/ chair in the Chamber. I am watching Question Period from here. Watching pros asking and answering questions. The thought of standing up and asking a question in front of all of these people, and cameras, is frightening.

April 16, 2025

I got to ask my first question in the Chamber. I was so nervous that my paper was shaking. Note to self: use a paper lift/ desk next time. Take a deep breath.

April 29, 2025

Inaugural speech in the House. It was incredible to have this opportunity and speak in the House about my adventure, mission, and riding of Nepean. I am starting to feel more comfortable speaking in the House.

April 30, 2025

Moving into a new apartment in Toronto. I have to buy furniture for here, although all I really need is a bed and Internet. Over the last few months, I’ve learned that it’s really just a place to sleep in between long days at Queen’s Park.

August 5, 2025

My sign for the constituency office on the building is finally up. This makes it feel official. Also, who would’ve thought it would take so long to get these things set up?

Other notes

I’ve had the opportunity to speak in the Legislature on numerous occasions, including welcome remarks to visitors, questions in Question Period, statements, and debates. The more I do it, the more comfortable I am getting. I still appreciate every moment I am in there.

Committee work has been fun. It is something I never expected in this role.

I have been traveling Ontario throughout the summer for Committee Hearings on Bill 9. It has been an interesting experience asking questions to presenters and interested parties who want to speak on the Bill.

The most surprising thing to me about this new role is how tiring all of the traveling can be. Also, I am used to being on my feet for 12-16 hours a day as a nurse. Now, I am sitting much more. I’ve been warned about the “freshman 30” new politicians put on because of this major change in lifestyle. I’ve made an effort to watch what I am eating and exercise when I can, but it is quite difficult to do in this role, especially with all of the traveling and living out of a suitcase for so long.

There is a large financial barrier to becoming an MPP. If you do not have money to start with, it cost a lot up front. Such as transportation, accommodation, etc. All is reimbursed in due time, but having to put it on a credit card is daunting.

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Photos file names and captions for photos

File name	Caption
48n3e_25_rookie-JosephR	Joseph Racinsky
48n3e_25_rookie-JosephR with TedA	Joseph (right) with Ted Arnott, the former MPP for Wellington-Halton Hills and the former Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario. The two met for lunch six days after the election.
48n3e_25_rookie-JosephR with TrevorD	Joseph (seen here with seen here with Ontario Assembly Clerk Trevor Day) is officially sworn in as the 1077th person to serve the people of Ontario as a Member of Provincial Parliament on Day 18.
48n3e_25_rookie-Joseph in House	With the legislature in session, Joseph took his seat and began taking part in debate. On April 16, he gave his inaugural speech (following an all-nighter to prepare).
48n3e_25_rookie-TylerW	Tyler Watt
48n3e_25_rookie-TylerW with LeeF	Tyler and other newly elected MPPs, such as Lee Fairclough (Etobicoke-Lakeshore), attend onboarding activities at the Assembly on Day 7.
48n3e_25_rookie-TylerW in Ottawa	Prior to his election as an MPP, Tyler worked as a nurse in an Ottawa-area hospital. On Day 18 he returned to his old stomping grounds to receive the “Champion of Care” award. He plans to work casually as a nurse to maintain his licence while in the Assembly.
48n3e_25_rookie-TylerW on TVO show	Tyler (right) joined TVO’s Steve Paikin (centre) and several other newly elected Liberal MPPs for a televised interview on Day 19.