Fred DeLorey, Conservative party director, seeking Peter MacKay's seat

CBC Newshas learned that senior Conservative party organizerFred DeLoreyis hoping to fill the Central Novanomination slot nowleft vacant by the surprise exit ofJustice MinisterPeter MacKay.

MacKaygavenoticelast week that hewillnot be running for re-election this fall.

• Peter MacKay cites 'love for my family' as he bows out of federal politics
• Peter MacKay just latest loss for federal Conservatives
• Timing of Peter MacKay's departure politically damaging

Deloreywas born in Nova Scotia, but has spent the last few years in Ottawa. He wasan advisor to Prime Minister Stephen Harper on Atlantic Canadian issues before moving to the party's office, where he handled communications. Since2013 he has served as director of political operations for the Conservative Party.

Central Nova has long been considered the closest thing the Conservative Party has to a safe seat in the province.

Tory stronghold in peril?

Peter MacKay's father, Elmer MacKay, held the seat before Peter. The elder MacKay briefly stepped aside to give Brian Mulroney a safe place to run in a by-election when he was first chosen Progressive Conservative leader in 1983 and needed a seat.

MacKaywon the seat with 57 per cent of the vote in 2011.

However, recent polls suggest Tories could be in for a strong challenge across Atlantic Canada, causing some to wonder if the lack of an incumbent could make Central Nova winnable for another party.

• Central Nova's Liberal candidate DavidMacLeodwithdraws from race

Central Nova Conservatives were not the only ones left scrambling for a candidate.That same day MacKay made his announcement.theLiberals nominated candidate in the riding, retired Canadian Forces veteran David MacLeod, revealed that he, too, would be exiting the race for personal reasons.