Ontario NDP announce former city councillor Catherine McKenney as Ottawa-Centre candidate

Following a brief interlude away after losing their bid for Mayor of Ottawa in 2022, Catherine McKenny is returning to politics, this time on the provincial stage.

The Ontario NDP announced the former Ottawa city councillor – who served for two terms – as its newest candidate for Ottawa-Centre in the next provincial election. McKenney will replace the former candidate Joel Harden, as he seeks a seat with the federal NDP.

“The work we did together at the City was meaningful. Together, we fought for real progress for our city—whether it was advocating for better transit, including improvements to Para Transpo, championing affordable housing, advancing a robust climate plan, or creating safer streets, parks, and public spaces. Every initiative was driven by a vision for a stronger, more inclusive community,” McKenney said on social media when announcing their bid for nomination last month. “I am running to be your next Member of Provincial Parliament because I believe we can continue this important work.”

McKenney is the co-founder of CitySHAPES, a national non-profit organization focused on building cities where everyone can thrive. They are a passionate advocate for transportation, climate policy, affordable housing and business improvement.

“Catherine is ready to fight for a better future for Ottawa Centre—building homes you can afford, transit you can rely on, and health care that’s there when you need it,” the NDP posted on its official X account.

McKenney’s impact on Ottawa has not gone unnoticed. In the 2022 mayoral election they came second, winning 38 percent of the vote.

The next provincial election must come before June 2026 but Premier Doug Ford has yet to announce a formal date.