The Liberal party won in two Toronto byelections on Monday, the first the city has seen since the pandemic began.
In Toronto Centre, Marci Ien took over the space vacated by former finance minister Bill Morneau. Ya’ara Saks kept the Liberals in York Centre following Michael Levitt‘s resignation. It is the first venture into politics for both candidates.
Ien, a former journalist, won her riding with 42% of the vote over Green party leader Annamie Paul. Saks narrowly claimed victory over Conservative candidate Benjamin Gauri Sharma by 700 votes, proving that every vote does count.
Toronto Mayor John Tory tweeted his congratulations to both candidates, saying he is looking forward to working with the new MPs.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also took to the social media platform to welcome Ien and Saks to the Liberal party.
“I’m looking forward to working with you both and building a stronger, fairer, and healthier future for the members of your communities and people across the country,” said Trudeau.
Congratulations, @MarciIen and @YaaraSaks – and welcome to the team! I’m really looking forward to working with you both and building a stronger, fairer, and healthier future for the members of your communities and people across the country. See you in Ottawa soon.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) October 27, 2020
The Liberal Party currently holds power with a minority government.