Prime Minister Mark Carney’s deputy chief of staff, Braeden Caley, is reportedly contemplating a run for the North Vancouver-Capilano riding, recently vacated by former Liberal minister Jonathan Wilkinson, according to two sources familiar with the situation. If Caley pursues this path, it would not only signal a new chapter for the local Liberal Party but also create a significant vacancy within the Prime Minister’s Office.
The Departure of Jonathan Wilkinson
Jonathan Wilkinson has been a prominent figure in Canadian politics since he was first elected as a Member of Parliament in 2015. His recent announcement to step away from federal politics to assume the role of Canada’s ambassador to the European Union marks a notable shift, particularly as he prepares to begin his new duties this summer. Wilkinson, who previously held the positions of Minister of Fisheries and Minister of Environment, has been a key player in the Trudeau administration, particularly during his tenure as Minister of Natural Resources from 2021 to 2025.
His decision to leave federal service comes after he was not included in Prime Minister Carney’s latest cabinet appointments. However, the Prime Minister’s Office lauded Wilkinson’s extensive experience in public policy and international economic engagement, highlighting his three decades of expertise in these areas.
Braeden Caley: A Rising Star?
Braeden Caley, who has been a stalwart in British Columbia’s political landscape, is now facing the prospect of stepping into the electoral arena. Prior to his current role as deputy chief of staff to the Prime Minister, Caley served as a press secretary and director of policy and communications for Vancouver’s longest-serving mayor, Gregor Robertson. His experience extends to senior positions within the federal Liberal Party, where he spent six years as senior director of communications and was pivotal as national campaign co-director during the 2025 federal election.
With strong encouragement from local Liberal members for him to consider a nomination, Caley’s potential candidacy has garnered the attention of Prime Minister Carney, who is reportedly supportive of his ambitions. His decision to run would not only have implications for the North Vancouver-Capilano riding but also for the broader landscape of the Prime Minister’s Office, as it would open a senior position that would need to be filled.
The Political Landscape of North Vancouver-Capilano
The North Vancouver-Capilano riding has seen a significant transformation over the years. Renamed in 2022 following boundary changes, it was previously known simply as North Vancouver. The political history of the riding has been marked by a competitive landscape, with Conservative Andrew Saxton holding it from 2008 until Wilkinson’s election in 2015. In the 2025 election, Wilkinson claimed a decisive victory, securing 60 per cent of the vote against Conservative candidate Stephen Curran, who garnered 34 per cent.
As the local Liberals consider their strategy moving forward, Caley’s potential candidacy could either solidify the party’s hold on the riding or set the stage for a fierce contest against Conservative challengers.
Implications for the Liberal Party
Caley’s entry into the race could reinvigorate the Liberal presence in North Vancouver-Capilano, especially given his deep roots in the community and experience in both municipal and federal politics. It would allow the party to leverage his established relationships and understanding of the local political dynamics, which may prove crucial in a riding that has shown past support for the Conservatives.
Should Caley commit to running, it would not only shift the political dynamics in North Vancouver-Capilano but also spark discussions within the Liberal Party about the direction and leadership style they wish to pursue as they prepare for future elections.
Why it Matters
The potential candidacy of Braeden Caley is emblematic of the shifting tides within Canadian politics. As established figures like Jonathan Wilkinson transition to new roles, fresh faces like Caley may redefine the Liberal Party’s approach in key ridings. This movement not only reflects the evolving political landscape in British Columbia but also underscores the importance of strategic leadership in maintaining electoral competitiveness. As the party rallies to solidify its influence, the decisions made now will resonate through future electoral cycles, shaping the governance of Canada in the years to come.
