Health Minister Mark Holland not running in upcoming election

Health Minister Mark Holland said Thursday he won’t run again in the coming federal election, announcing his change in plans just one day before Mark Carney is officially sworn in as prime minister. 

Holland, who represents the riding of Ajax just outside Toronto, said in a social media post Thursday that “it’s time to go home.”

“Thank you to all the volunteers, advocates and friends for letting me fight alongside of you,” Holland said. “I will always be at your side; I will just now do it out of office as I will not be running in the next election.”

Holland was first elected in 2004, served until 2011 when he was defeated. He was re-elected in 2015 and has represented the riding since then.

Holland has served in several roles, including leader of the government in the House of Commons and chief government whip. He has been the minister of health since July 2023.

He has been a staunch defender of a woman’s right to choose and had led negotiations with provinces on both the dental-care program and the federal pharmacare file. The federal government has signed agreements with three provinces to provide coverage for birth control and diabetes medications.

Carney, who won the Liberal leadership in a landslide victory Sunday, will be sworn in as Canada’s 24th prime minister, alongside his cabinet, at a ceremony at Rideau Hall Friday. He is also set to announce his new cabinet, which is widely expected to have fewer seats than the 37 under currently serving under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Carney has promised a “seamless” and “quick” transition.

Holland, who backed former deputy prime minister Chrystia Freeland in the leadership race, wrote on social media on March 9 that he looked forward to working with Carney “on making Canada a place that is free and fair for everyone.”

Five days later, he said he would be leaving politics.

In his post Thursday, Holland said he has been “so deeply lucky” to serve his community.

“I have been so lucky to work with the absolute best, most wonderful people,” Holland said. “What an adventure it has been.”