Former Liberal cabinet minister Marco Mendicino not seeking re-election
Liberal MP Marco Mendicino has announced that he will not seek re-election, citing that it is the right time for him and his family to step aside. The former cabinet minister made this announcement in a letter shared on social media on Thursday.
In his letter, Mendicino stated that he would continue to serve as the MP for Toronto’s Eglinton—Lawrence riding for the remainder of the parliamentary session. He also reiterated his discontent with the current government’s foreign policy approach towards the Middle East, particularly highlighting the deteriorated relations with Israel and the inadequate handling of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Mendicino has been vocal in condemning the unjust targeting of the Jewish community and has criticized Canada’s stance on issues in the Middle East. Along with fellow Liberal MP Anthony Housefather, Mendicino expressed disappointment in Canada’s response to an International Court of Justice case against Israel, urging the government to reject claims of genocide.
During his time in the Liberal cabinet, Mendicino held key roles such as the immigration portfolio in 2019 and the public safety file in 2021. However, his tenure as public safety minister was marred by controversies, including calls for his resignation over the transfer of serial killer Paul Bernardo to a medium-security prison. He also faced scrutiny for his handling of the Freedom Convoy protests in 2022 and the controversial gun control legislation, C-21.
By choosing not to seek re-election, Mendicino joins a growing list of Liberal MPs who have made similar decisions. This list includes several MPs who have served with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau since 2015 and former cabinet ministers. Mendicino expressed his gratitude towards his colleagues in the Liberal Party, without specifically mentioning Trudeau.
The decision by Mendicino to step aside before the next election reflects a trend within the Liberal Party, with several prominent members choosing to bow out of politics. This shift in leadership dynamics will undoubtedly have an impact on the upcoming election and the future direction of the party.
