Quebec MNA Gregory Kelley Reveals Personal Struggles Amid Political Turmoil
Jacques-Cartier Member of the National Assembly Gregory Kelley has provided a candid look at the personal impact of the ongoing Quebec Liberal Party crisis, describing the past few months as "one of the worst periods of my life" while emphasizing that his marriage to fellow MNA Marwah Rizqy has emerged stronger than ever.
The Overwhelming Pressure of Political Scandal
In an exclusive interview on The Corner Booth podcast, Kelley detailed the immense pressure he faced while navigating both family responsibilities and political fallout. "I was doing my best to support my wife and be there for my kids, while at the same time having to handle the situation that was going on on a day-to-day basis," Kelley explained. "Overwhelming is the word I can use to describe what I was feeling."
The crisis began in November when Rizqy was suspended from the Liberal caucus for firing her chief of staff, Geneviève Hinse, without consulting then-party leader Pablo Rodriguez. The controversy escalated with Rodriguez's resignation amid fundraising allegations, creating a leadership vacuum and internal turmoil within the party.
Strengthened Bonds Amid Political Isolation
Despite the professional challenges, Kelley emphasized that his personal relationship with Rizqy has deepened significantly. "Our marriage is stronger than ever in some ways, and this has brought us as close together as you possibly could be," he revealed. "We have each other's backs. We're standing by one another."
Rizqy remains outside the party structure but returned to the legislature on Tuesday, with Kelley by her side after his own temporary step back from political activities. While Rizqy has announced she won't seek re-election in October's provincial election, Kelley confirmed his intention to run again as a Quebec Liberal candidate.
Navigating Legal Battles and Personal Support Systems
Kelley acknowledged that some aspects of the crisis remain personal battles for Rizqy alone, particularly regarding the lawsuit filed by Hinse. "She said, 'Greg, I'm protecting you from yourself,'" Kelley recounted, highlighting the complex dynamics of supporting a spouse through professional legal challenges.
The MNA also spoke about receiving crucial support from his father, Geoffrey Kelley, who previously held the Jacques-Cartier seat. "He's one of my best friends and he just did what a best friend does," Kelley explained. "I would go over and we would talk about everything but that. He would make sure to text me quite a bit during Habs games."
Mental Health Advocacy and Political Future
Kelley, who has been open about his mental health struggles in the past, used the interview to emphasize the importance of support systems during difficult times. His comments come as he looks toward the October election and the Quebec Liberal Party's future under new leadership.
The MNA expressed hope for a rejuvenated party that doesn't take anglophone voters for granted, while also sharing lighter moments including a Super Bowl prediction during the wide-ranging conversation recorded at Montreal's Snowdon Deli.
As the political landscape continues to shift in Quebec, Kelley's personal reflections offer a rare glimpse into how public figures navigate professional crises while maintaining personal relationships and mental wellbeing.
