In a potential shift within the Liberal ranks, Braeden Caley, the deputy chief of staff to Prime Minister Mark Carney, is contemplating a candidacy for the North Vancouver-Capilano riding, which is soon to be vacated by former Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson. This development, confirmed by two sources familiar with the situation, could lead to significant changes in both the Prime Minister’s Office and the local political landscape.
A New Opportunity in North Vancouver-Capilano
Jonathan Wilkinson, a seasoned politician who first entered the House of Commons in 2015, is stepping away from federal politics to assume the role of Canada’s ambassador to the European Union this summer. His departure opens the door for new candidates, and Caley has emerged as a prominent name. While the sources chose to remain anonymous due to the sensitive nature of internal government discussions, they indicated that there is considerable encouragement from British Columbia Liberals for Caley to pursue this opportunity.
Support from the Prime Minister himself may bolster Caley’s prospects, as reports suggest Carney is in favour of his potential run. Should Caley choose to seek the nomination, it would not only mark a significant career transition for him but also create a senior vacancy within the Prime Minister’s Office.
Braeden Caley: A Familiar Face in B.C. Politics
Caley has established a notable presence in British Columbia’s political scene. Before his tenure in the Prime Minister’s Office, he served as press secretary and director of policy and communications for former Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson, who remains a pivotal figure in the Liberal party after winning the Vancouver Fraserview-South Burnaby seat in the 2025 federal election. Caley’s experience in the federal sphere includes six years as the senior director of communications for the Liberal Party and a crucial role as national campaign co-director during the last election.
Hailing from Richmond, B.C., and having spent significant time in Vancouver, Caley was appointed deputy chief of staff to the Prime Minister in March 2025. His background positions him well to connect with constituents in the North Vancouver-Capilano riding, an area known for its diverse community and pressing local issues.
Jonathan Wilkinson’s Legacy and Upcoming Transition
Wilkinson’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in his political career, which included stints as Minister of Fisheries and Minister of Environment before leading the Natural Resources portfolio under Prime Minister Trudeau. His appointment as ambassador to the EU, which came after he was not included in Carney’s cabinet, highlights his extensive experience at the intersection of public policy and international relations. The Prime Minister’s Office has commended Wilkinson for his three decades of expertise in these fields.
The North Vancouver-Capilano riding, which underwent boundary changes in 2022 and was previously known as North Vancouver, has been a focal point in the province’s political landscape. In the 2025 election, Wilkinson secured an impressive 60 per cent of the vote, a substantial lead over Conservative contender Stephen Curran, who garnered 34 per cent. The riding, once held by Conservative Andrew Saxton from 2008 to 2015, is now poised for a competitive nomination race.
The Political Landscape Ahead
As the political climate evolves in anticipation of the next federal election, Caley’s potential candidacy could reshape the dynamics within the Liberal Party in British Columbia. His familiarity with local issues and established connections may provide him with a distinct advantage should he decide to enter the race.
The importance of the North Vancouver-Capilano seat cannot be understated, considering its recent electoral history and the shifting priorities of constituents. Caley’s decision, whether to pursue the nomination or not, will undoubtedly influence the strategic direction of the Liberal Party in the region.
Why it Matters
The potential candidacy of Braeden Caley for the North Vancouver-Capilano riding is significant not only for the local political landscape but also for the future of the Liberal Party in British Columbia. As the party seeks to maintain its foothold in a region with a complex political history, Caley’s experience and ties to the community could be pivotal in galvanising support ahead of the next federal election. The outcome of this nomination race may very well shape the party’s trajectory and influence its standing in the broader national context.
