Karen was first elected on October 19, 2015 to represent the riding of Elgin-Middlesex-London in the 42nd Parliament. 

Karen is the Shadow Minister for Families, Children and Social Development. She is a Member of the Conservative Party Shadow Cabinet, Chair of the Status of Women Committee, Chair of the Conservative Social Development Advisory Caucus, Member of the Auto Caucus, Seniors Caucus, Anti-Poverty Caucus, Agricultural Caucus, Great Lakes Caucus; and Member of the Canada-United States Inter-parliamentary Group. In her role as the Shadow Minister, Karen deals with issues related to housing and homelessness, poverty, childcare, as well as issues related to youth and seniors.

Karen’s experience as an Executive Assistant to a former Member of Parliament provided her with a greater understanding of federal government programs and their connection to individuals, not-for-profit organizations and small businesses in the community.

In her personal capacity, Karen is married to Mike Vecchio and they have 5 children. She is very proud of her rural roots and strong family core values.