Wes McLean began working in the political sphere in 2003 for former New Brunswick Premier Bernard Lord. He later worked for the Senate Conservative Leader, then as Special Assistant in the PMO, and as Senior Policy Advisor to the Minister of Veterans Affairs. 

From 2010 to 2014, he was a Member of the New Brunswick Legislative Assembly for the electoral district of Victoria-Tobique. During that time, he served as Deputy Government House Leader, and Legislative Secretary to the Premier.  He also chaired the PC Caucus Committee for Legislative Review.  Wes authored the Organ and Tissue Donation Strategy Act, which received the unanimous approval of the Assembly in 2014.  

He returned to the Senate Conservative Leader’s Office, and in late 2016, began as Senior Advisor for Legislative Affairs in the Office of the Premier of Manitoba, then as Special Assistant to Premier Brian Pallister.  

Wes served as Deputy Chief of Staff to New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs from 2018 to 2021, where he was responsible for legislative and policy planning, as well as cabinet operations.