Indigenous MP from Nova Scotia submits application for Liberal leadership race

By The Canadian Press on January 23, 2025.

HALIFAX – Nova Scotia MP Jaime Battiste has joined the Liberal leadership race, confirming today that he has submitted the required documents and a $50,000 deposit to the federal party.

Battiste is the only First Nations candidate in the race to replace Justin Trudeau, and the first Indigenous candidate ever to be in the running to become prime minister of Canada.

Speaking in Halifax today, the Mi’kmaq politician from Cape Breton was surrounded by Mi’kmaq and Wolastoqey chiefs and councillors from across Atlantic Canada.

Battiste says he knows he’s an underdog, but he says he relishes the challenge.

He says he has received encouragement from Indigenous leaders across Canada.

Battiste says that as prime minister he would work hard to protect key Liberal programs, including national dental care and pharmacare.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 23, 2025.

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