Embattled Edmonton Centre Member of Parliament Randy Boissonnault says he is running in the upcoming federal election under the potential leadership of former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland — were she to become Liberal leader in the coming weeks.
It was speculated on Wednesday that Liberal leadership hopeful Mark Carney would run in the riding. Carney, said to be Trudeau's candidate, is announcing his Liberal leadership bid in Edmonton on Thursday.
Boissonnault's announcement has created some confusion.
"For more than a decade, I have delivered for Edmontonians and for Albertans, including having the honour of twice serving as the member of parliament for Edmonton Center," said Boissonnault in a statement.
"Over this period, I have worked closely with Chrystia Freeland from her time as a newly elected MP in 2013 to her recent role, when she served as deputy prime minister and minister of finance. With her support, I have delivered important programs and funding that are building up Edmonton Center."
Boissonnault co-founded Global Health Imports (GHI), which won a federal contract. Allegations surfaced that he may have been involved with the company after being appointed to cabinet — a potential conflict-of-interest breach.
Also, Boissonnault was criticized for varying claims about his Indigenous identity, initially describing himself as "non-status adopted Cree" and later clarifying his family's Métis connections.
This controversy led to accusations of "pretendianism" and demands for his resignation.
Boissonnault resigned from Justin Trudeau's cabinet in November 2024.