Joe Preston began his political career in 2004 when he served as the Member of Parliament for Elgin-Middlesex-London. He was subsequently re-elected for three additional terms until his retirement from federal politics in 2015. In 2018, Preston was elected as the Mayor of St. Thomas and is presently serving his second term. His focus as Mayor includes affordable housing, enhancing public transit, and economic development. Mayor Preston is well recognized for his commitment to his community and, in addition to his public service, has been a local businessperson for the last 45 years in St. Thomas.