12 Indigenous candidates elected in 2025 federal election
Indigenous candidates made significant strides in the 2025 general election, with 12 First Nations, Inuit, or Métis individuals securing victories in ridings across Canada. The results solidified as the ballot count continued on Tuesday, showcasing a shift in political landscape.
One of the standout victories was Mandy Gull-Masty, the former grand chief of the Grand Council of the Crees, who defeated the Bloc Québécois in Abitibi-Baie-James-Nunavik-Eeyou, a riding previously held by the NDP. In Manitoba, Rebecca Chartrand, who hails from Pine Creek First Nation and identifies as Anishinaabe, Inninew, Dakota, and Métis, unseated the 17-year incumbent Niki Ashton in Churchill-Keewatinook Aski. Chartrand credited the strong Indigenous voter turnout and the Liberal government’s efforts on reconciliation for her success in a riding where nearly 80% of the population is Indigenous.
In Saskatchewan, Buckley Belanger emerged as the lone Liberal MP, claiming victory in Desnethé-Missinippi-Churchill River from the Conservatives. The Tories, who saw an increase in Indigenous representation compared to the previous Parliament, celebrated wins by candidates like Ellis Ross in Skeena-Bulkley Valley and Billy Morin in Edmonton Northwest. Marc Dalton, a Métis candidate, retained his seat in Pitt Meadows-Maple Ridge for the Conservatives.
The gains made by the Conservatives and Liberals came at the expense of the NDP, which experienced a significant decline in Indigenous representation. However, Leah Gazan, a member of Wood Mountain Lakota First Nation, retained her seat in Winnipeg Centre. In Nunavut, Lori Idlout, an Inuk lawyer and incumbent MP, narrowly secured victory over her Liberal challenger.
The increased Indigenous representation in Parliament reflects a growing engagement in federal politics among First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities. Issues such as land rights, clean water, child welfare, and education remain top priorities for Indigenous peoples. Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, the national chief of the Assembly of First Nations, emphasized the importance of upholding treaties and addressing key Indigenous concerns in the new government’s agenda.
As the Liberals enter a rare fourth federal term, Indigenous organizations like Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN), Nunavut Tunngavik Inc., and the Métis National Council are calling for partnerships based on respect and self-determination. NAN expressed concerns about potential intrusions into Indigenous territories, particularly in mineral-rich regions like the Ring of Fire in Ontario. The Métis National Council underscored the significance of supporting Métis self-government and treaty implementation.
The newly elected Indigenous MPs bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to the House of Commons, representing various Indigenous nations from across Canada. Their presence in Parliament highlights the ongoing efforts towards reconciliation and recognition of Indigenous rights in the country.
