Rookie Liberal MP Robert-Falcon Ouellette has changed his mind about lobbying to become Speaker of the House of Commons.

“With heavy heart, I am withdrawing my name from consideration for the Speaker of the House of Commons,” Ouellette said in a statement released Sunday.

Ouellette, 38, had suggested Saturday that he could influence new Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in that position to push for benefits for his riding (Winnipeg Centre) while the House is in session.

“At a Town Hall (meeting) with my constituents, I suggested that the Speaker has the ability to call over a Minister or the Prime Minister,” Ouellette said in the release. “I, at no time, intended to convey that there was any suggestion of quid pro quo.”

Ouellette had said that other Speakers had told him Speakers could have such an influence.

“I deeply regret any impression I gave of the Speaker’s role,” the statement continued. “While I never intended to imply anything other than that the Speaker, as MP, still has the capacity to bring constituents’ concerns to the attention of government, I must take responsibility for my clumsiness in the way I expressed myself.

“If we are truly to move forward with a fresh start in this Parliament, we do have to raise standards, and I am no exception. Mistakes have consequences, and I accept them. I apologize unreservedly to the House and my fellow parliamentarians and withdraw my name from consideration.”

When reached by text later Sunday, Ouellette simply replied: “My statement speaks for itself. Thanks.”

So, it is not known if Ouellette was advised to withdraw his name.

Paul Thomas, a University of Manitoba political studies professor emeritus, was not surprised by the decision.

“He might be coming to terms with the reality of power in Ottawa,” Thomas said. “And it was a bit of a rush for a rookie MP with not even any provincial legislature experience (to attempt to become speaker). From what I’ve read, there was a small backlash saying his first priority should be his constituents.

“He might be on a bit of a learning curve. You have to make a name for yourself. In Ottawa, there are workhorses and show horses and you’ve got to decide which one you’re gonna be.”

Winnipeg Centre is one of the largest ridings and, at one time, was the third-poorest in the country, Thomas said.

“So, they need a lot of work from their MP,” he said.

Ouellette upset long-time NDPer Pat Martin to win the riding in the October federal election.

jim.bender@sunmedia.ca

Twitter: @bendersun