Former MP John Aldag Seeks Return in Langley Township Byelection

John Aldag, a former Member of Parliament, has announced his candidacy for the upcoming Langley Township byelection scheduled for October 25, 2024. Aldag, who served as a Liberal MP for Langley City-Cloverdale from 2015 to 2019 and again from 2021 to 2024, expressed his desire to contribute further to the community. “I still have more to give to the community,” Aldag stated on September 12.

Having left federal politics to focus on local issues, Aldag believes that municipal government is better positioned to address community concerns. He has identified the development of a performing arts centre as a key priority if elected. During his tenure as an MP, Aldag was involved in initiatives aimed at securing federal funding for such a project, which has yet to materialize. He mentioned, “Some of the pieces are still in place,” indicating ongoing interest in the project.

The byelection will fill a council seat for a term of just one year, leading up to the general civic elections in 2026. Aldag noted that, if successful, he would assess his position after a year before deciding on a bid for a longer term on the council. He also acknowledged the challenge of collaborating with a council that has an established majority, drawing on his experience from both majority and minority governments during his time in Ottawa.

Aldag resigned from his federal seat in 2024 after an unsuccessful run as a New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate in the Langley-Abbotsford riding. Earlier this year, he attempted to return as a federal Liberal candidate in the Langley Township-Fraser Heights riding but was defeated by Conservative candidate Tako Van Popta. Notably, this candidacy followed a significant health challenge, as Aldag had recently undergone major heart surgery.

In the upcoming byelection, Aldag will compete against former Langley Township councillor Blair Whitmarsh, who finished second in the 2022 mayoral race, and Jami Watson, who is also vying for the council seat, according to the Elections BC website.

As the election approaches, Aldag’s campaign will focus on local issues that resonate with residents, while he draws on his extensive background in public service, including his previous role as manager of the Fort Langley National Historic Site. His return to local politics highlights a commitment to community engagement and an interest in fostering cultural development within Langley Township.