Justice Minister Arif Virani and International Trade Minister Mary Ng have both declared that they will not be seeking re-election in the upcoming federal election. This decision makes them the fifth and sixth ministers in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s cabinet to opt out of running for re-election since the cabinet shuffle in December. If including Trudeau himself, the total number of ministers not seeking re-election rises to seven.
Virani, a Member of Parliament for Parkdale-High Park in Toronto, expressed his gratitude for serving in this role across three consecutive elections. He emphasized that the decision to step back was made after thorough contemplation over the past few weeks. Originally elected in 2015, Virani held various positions before becoming the justice minister in 2023, including serving as a parliamentary secretary for immigration, heritage, justice, and international trade.
Ng, who won a by-election in the Markham-Thornhill riding in 2017, became a Member of Parliament and later served as the minister of small business in 2018 before assuming the international trade portfolio in the subsequent year. She highlighted the importance of safeguarding Canada’s economic ties through the CUSMA agreement with the United States and Mexico, particularly amidst challenges posed by U.S. tariffs.
Virani confirmed his commitment to continue serving as minister and MP until the next election while reflecting on the impact of his political career on his family. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by his wife and two sons due to his long tenure in politics, emphasizing the personal toll it has taken over the years.
In addition to Virani and Ng, other cabinet members not seeking re-election include Transport and Internal Trade Minister Anita Anand, Rural Development Minister Gudie Hutchings, Emergency Preparedness Minister Harjit Sajjan, and former tourism minister Soraya Martinez Ferrada. Ferrada recently resigned from her cabinet position to pursue the mayoralty in Montreal, while the other ministers remain in their current roles.