After more than 20 years in Newmarket politics, MP and former mayor Tony Van Bynen is capping off his political career and will not seek re-election.
The Newmarket-Aurora MP said today that this term as MP stands to be his last. While he will continue on in the role until there is an election call, Van Bynen said he wants to shift his focus to family.
“It has been an honour to serve the constituents of Newmarket-Aurora,” Van Bynen said in a March 11 news release, adding that he will “look forward to more quality time with loved ones.”
Van Bynen has remained a fixture in Newmarket’s political scene since 2000. He served as a councillor before being mayor for 12 years, from 2006 to 2018. He then ran for federal election in 2019, winning at that time and again in 2021.
Concern for climate change motivated him to run for federal office, Van Bynen said.
“I’m proud our government has made this a priority,” he said. “Facing climate change is essential for our future; we must achieve a balanced, and more compassionate relationship with nature.”
Van Bynen also expressed pride in other federal government initiatives, including the Canada Child Benefit and the new Canada Dental Plan. He also said he is grateful for the support the government has provided to community organizations.
Federal Liberal Newmarket-Aurora riding chair Matt Gunning said Van Bynen will be missed.
"Newmarket-Aurora has been well served by a fantastic individual, a person of great integrity and somebody who has a tremendous community mind," Gunning said.
It is not yet clear who might be the next federal Newmarket-Aurora Liberal candidate, with a nomination process to come. Gunning said there is not yet any timeline for the process and no big rush for it.
"We'll put together a plan that ensures we have the opportunity to hear from lots of different voices in our community," Gunning said. "We're confident there will be a lot of interest."
It is hard to replicate someone like Van Bynen and his local recognition as a former mayor, Gunning said.
"However, we believe that the Liberal brand and the values and the policy positions that will be put forward ahead of the next election by the federal party will be able to assist in raising the profile of any candidate that we ultimately decide to nominate," he added.
The NDP and Green parties have not yet announced local candidates, but the federal Conservative party has named Sandra Cobena as its Newmarket-Aurora candidate.
Van Bynen expressed appreciation to his voters and volunteers.
Although his time in his office is ending, Van Bynen said he will still be involved in public life.
“Public service is more than a career, it's a calling,” he said. “My commitment to our community doesn’t end with retirement. This is my home, and I am deeply grateful for the help and encouragement I’ve received along the way.”
