Montreal comedian Charles Brunet announced on August 9, 2026 that he will help pay the traffic tickets owed by city mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada. The offer was made publicly during a televised interview, where Brunet said he intended to settle the amount on the mayor’s behalf.
Mayor Ferrada’s vehicle was seized by municipal authorities in March 2026 after she failed to settle an outstanding traffic fine. The seizure, carried out under the city’s enforcement procedures, was the first instance of a sitting mayor in Montreal experiencing such action. Media outlets reported on the incident, noting its rarity and the public scrutiny it generated.
Brunet said his contribution would cover the amount required to resolve the unpaid ticket and any related fees. He described the gesture as a means of supporting the mayor and reinforcing the principle that traffic regulations apply to everyone. No specific monetary figure was disclosed, and Brunet did not indicate whether additional assistance would be offered in the future.
City officials confirmed that the mayor remains in office and that the fine remains outstanding pending payment. The mayor’s office did not immediately comment on Brunet’s offer, citing the need to verify details before responding. Municipal legal counsel reiterated that the fine must be settled to avoid further penalties, including possible additional enforcement actions.
The incident underscores the interaction between public officials and civic duties in Montreal. While the seized vehicle was eventually released after the fine was addressed, the case serves as a reminder that traffic violations are enforceable regardless of a person’s position. Brunet’s pledge adds a personal dimension to the broader conversation about accountability among elected leaders.