In a bid to fill a vacancy in the House of Commons, Elections Canada has announced a federal byelection set for June 24, 2024, in the Toronto–St. Paul’s electoral district. The riding, known for its liberal leaning, gears up for a democratic exercise aimed at ensuring representation in the nation’s legislative body.
As per the directives from Elections Canada, the office in Toronto–St. Paul’s is now open, providing necessary resources and assistance to eligible voters residing in the area.
The federal riding has been held by the Liberal party of Canada since 1993. Other than four years from 1993-97, it has been held by former MP Carolyn Bennett, who announced her retirement from politics earlier this year.
Contesting the seat for the Liberal Party of Canada is Leslie Church.
According to the Liberal Party, which announced the nomination on May 1, Church has dedicated her career to serving her community, advising governments, and collaborating with local organizations nationwide to advance initiatives such as $10-a-day child care, affordable housing, and healthcare waitlist reduction during her tenure as a senior advisor and Chief of Staff in the federal government. Church as the head of global communications and public affairs for Google Canada
“Toronto– St. Paul’s needs a local champion who understands the challenges and opportunities of our community and families,” said Church. “I am ready to work with the Liberal team to build more homes, strengthen public health care, and lower the cost of living – so everyone in our community has a fair chance to succeed.”
Canadian citizens, aged 18 and above on the day of the election, are eligible to cast their ballots under specific criteria. They must be residents of Toronto–St. Paul’s with their home addresses registered in the electoral district from May 20, 2024, until the election day, June 24, 2024. Additionally, individuals must be registered voters, with the majority already enlisted in the National Register of Electors. Those seeking confirmation of their registration status or wishing to register can utilize the Online Voter Registration Service at elections.ca, call 1-800-463-6868, or contact the local Elections Canada office.
Contesting the seat for the Conservative Party of Canada, headed up by Pierre Poilievre who is leading the federal polls over Prime Minister Justin Trudeau by a wide margin, is Don Stewart.
The New Democratic Party candidate is Amrit Parhar. Provincially, the riding has been held by NDP MPP Jill Andrew since 2018.
In light of the voting process, electors in Toronto–St. Paul’s have several options at their disposal. They can cast their votes on election day, Monday, June 24, 2024, at their designated polling stations or participate in advance polling from Friday, June 14, to Monday, June 17. Early voting at the Elections Canada office in Toronto–St. Paul’s is available until Tuesday, June 18, 6 p.m. Additionally, electors can opt for voting by mail by applying before the deadline on June 18, 6 p.m., and returning their special ballot by mail or in person at the local Elections Canada office before polls close on election day.
Elections Canada is also seeking to hire election workers to fill various paid positions in the Toronto–St. Paul’s byelection, offering an opportunity for community members to contribute to the democratic process. Interested individuals can apply online at elections.ca or contact the local Elections Canada office for more information.