Prime minister sets April date for byelection in Halifax riding
A byelection has been called for April 14 to fill the vacant seat in Halifax, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau making the announcement on Sunday. The seat became available when Andy Fillmore resigned to run for mayor of Halifax in September. Fillmore had been the representative for Halifax since 2015, taking over from the New Democrats who had held the riding since 1997.
Trudeau was obligated to call the byelection by Sunday, and the Liberal Party wasted no time in announcing their candidate. Shannon Miedema, who currently leads Halifax Regional Municipality’s environment and climate change team, will be running for the seat. On the other hand, Lisa Roberts, a former NDP MLA who narrowly lost to Fillmore in the 2021 federal election, will be representing the New Democratic Party. Mark Boudreau, a former director of corporate affairs for Loblaw and spokesperson for Nova Scotia’s Progressive Conservatives, will be running for the Conservatives.
The Liberals are set to elect a new federal leader on March 9, just before the House resumes sitting on March 24. However, if a general election is called before April 14, the byelection will be cancelled. In such a scenario, votes already cast will be voided, but electors will still have the opportunity to vote in the general election. Those who had requested to vote by special ballot would need to apply for a new voting kit.
Elections Canada has advised that if a general election is called, there may be changes to polling stations, candidate lists, and other details. The most current information will be available on Elections Canada’s website.
The byelection in Halifax promises to be a closely watched event, with candidates from three major parties vying for the seat. Voters will have the opportunity to make their voices heard and choose the representative who will serve their interests in Parliament. Stay tuned for updates on this important political event.
