As the 2025 elections draw nearer, the political landscape in Hamilton and Toronto is taking shape with a notable number of incumbents preparing to defend their seats. The election will provide voters the opportunity to decide the fate of their representatives in key ridings across these regions.
In Hamilton Centre, incumbent Matthew Green will run for re-election to further serve his constituents. Chad Collins of Hamilton East–Stoney Creek also wants to keep his seat, as does Lisa Hepfner of Hamilton Mountain. Filomena Tassi, MP for Hamilton West–Ancaster–Dundas, will be on the ballot. That provides voters in these communities recognizable choices when they go to the ballot box.
The incandescents — all but a few new arrivals — in the Toronto area include incumbents who felt they’d built their bases over past terms. Ya’ara Saks, of York Centre, like Ahmed Hussen, of York South–Weston–Etobicoke, will join their previously-elected compatriot at campaigning for a renewed mandate. Their fellow Toronto MPs Marci Ien—Toronto Centre—and Chrystia Freeland—University–Rosedale—are seeking re-election. Their campaigns highlight the continued leadership for change coming out of these dynamic cities.
Kevin Vuong of Spadina–Harbourfront and Arif Virani of Taiaiako’n—Parkdale—High Park have a vested interest in maintaining their longstanding influence in their respective communities. They are both buried further down the ballot. In Scarborough, incumbents are already preparing to make these voter contact efforts. Salma Zahid from Scarborough Centre–Don Valley East, Jean Yip from Scarborough—Agincourt, and Gary Anandasangaree from Scarborough–Guildwood–Rouge Park are all in tight races and eager to hold the fort.
Han Dong from Don Valley North on board with incumbents. He wants to fortify his status as the preeminent figure in the region’s relatively small political ecosystem. Collectively, this group of incumbents embodies the diverse array of voices and experiences that exist within their constituencies.
The importance of the upcoming elections extend far beyond individual candidates. They address the systemic problems that affect the communities they serve. Voter mobilization and education will be critical to determining the results. Citizens will be looking backward to see how each incumbent has responded to their needs and provided for their concerns during their incumbency.
