Former Liberal Member of Parliament Shaun Chen announced on Thursday that he is entering the race for a Toronto city council seat representing Scarborough North. Chen, who recently resigned his federal post, disclosed his intention to seek municipal office as the city prepares for its upcoming election.
The announcement came in a brief statement released early Wednesday morning, confirming that Chen will contest the council seat in the north‑eastern part of Toronto. His decision follows his departure from the House of Commons, where he served as a Liberal MP.
Chen’s shift from federal to municipal politics marks a transition from national legislative duties to local governance. The move aligns with the timeline of the municipal election cycle, which will determine the composition of Toronto’s city council later this year.
The former MP did not provide additional details about his campaign platform or policy priorities in the initial filing. Election officials have opened the nomination period for candidates across the city, and Chen’s name now appears on the list of contenders for the Scarborough North ward.
Scarborough North, a diverse community within Toronto’s eastern borough, will hold its council election alongside other municipal contests across the city. Voters in the area will have the opportunity to choose among several candidates, including Chen, as the city finalizes its council roster.
Chen’s entry into the race adds a former federal representative to the pool of municipal hopefuls, potentially influencing the dynamics of the council race in Scarborough North. The municipal election, scheduled for later this year, will determine who will represent the ward on Toronto’s city council.
The city’s election office will continue to process nominations and provide updates on the ballot lineup as the campaign season progresses.