Byelection Costs Should Fall on Parties, Not Taxpayers

Former Ontario MPP Caroline Mulroney has left her position to become vice-chair at Royal Bank of Canada, sparking debate about who should bear the cost of a subsequent byelection.

The last general election in Ontario took place in February 2025, electing 124 members to serve the life of the 44th Parliament.

When a member resigns due to a better job prospect, it raises questions about their commitment to serving the public. Mulroney's move has triggered an expensive byelection, prompting the author to ask if taxpayers should foot the bill.

The author argues that parties or candidates who quit early should be responsible for the costs of a byelection, rather than leaving taxpayers to bear the burden.