Liberals Nominate Dr. Danielle Martin for Toronto Riding After Freeland Exit
Dr. Danielle Martin has been officially nominated as the Liberal candidate for the University-Rosedale riding. This decision comes following the resignation of Chrystia Freeland, who left her position to advise the Ukrainian government.
Dr. Danielle Martin: A Leading Health Advocate
With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Martin is a notable family physician and health care advocate. She has dedicated her career to improving health care policies and systems in Canada. Dr. Martin has served as the Executive Vice-President at Women’s College Hospital and led the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the University of Toronto, which is the world’s largest academic department of family medicine.
In 2014, she gained international attention by testifying before a U.S. Senate subcommittee, where she highlighted the strengths of Canada’s public health care system. Her commitment to health care excellence was recognized in 2019 when she became the youngest recipient of the F.N.G. Starr Award, the prestigious honor from the Canadian Medical Association.
Comments from Liberal Leadership
Sachit Mehra, President of the Liberal Party of Canada, praised Martin’s dedication. He stated, “Danielle Martin has spent her career working to improve health care for Canadian families.” He contrasted her approach with that of Pierre Poilievre, noting that Martin is prepared to collaborate with Mark Carney and the new Liberal team.
Vacancy and By-Election Details
Chrystia Freeland resigned as the Member of Parliament for University-Rosedale on January 9. Freeland had held this role since 2015, being re-elected in 2019, 2021, and again in 2025, with a significant 64% of the vote.
The Canada Elections Act stipulates that a writ for a by-election must be issued within 11 to 180 days after a vacancy is reported. Although a specific date has not been confirmed, it is anticipated that the earliest possible date for the by-election would be in March.
Implications for the Liberal Party
The University-Rosedale riding is viewed as a secure seat for the Liberal Party. Following Freeland’s departure, the party is now two seats shy of holding a majority in the House of Commons. This by-election represents an important opportunity for the Liberals to reinforce their presence in Parliament.
