Former Liberal MP and MPP Han Dong has announced his candidacy for Toronto City Council in the upcoming municipal election set for this fall. In a social media post made on June 17, 2026, Dong revealed that he has officially filed the necessary paperwork to run for the position representing Scarborough North.

I just filed my paperworks to run for Toronto City Councillor in Scarborough North. As a former MPP and MP, I know what it takes to get things done. I look forward to lots of interesting conversations at door steps. Exciting stuff! #scarboroughnorth #torontovotes pic.twitter.com/YPQDw8mugS

— Han Dong (@handongontario) June 17, 2026

Dong's entry into the race adds to a competitive political landscape in Scarborough North, which currently sees Councillor Jamaal Myers seeking re-election. Kevin Li, a former assistant to the late Scarborough North councillor Cynthia Lai, is also in the running as the only other candidate officially registered to contest the seat.

In his announcement, Dong emphasized his extensive experience in provincial and federal politics, asserting that he intends to leverage this background to attract investment and create jobs within Scarborough North. He also highlighted the need for fiscal discipline at city hall, stating that Toronto is currently burdened by high living costs, inefficient administration, traffic congestion, and an overall lack of long-term vision necessary for the city to remain competitive.

“Toronto has been saddled with high living costs, inefficient administration, congestion, and a lack of long-term vision to stay competitive in the face of uncertainties arising in recent years,” he remarked. He further added, “I’ve fought for Ontario families at Queen’s Park and for Canadians in Ottawa. Now I want to bring that same fight to Toronto City Hall – for a Scarborough North that works for everyone.”

Han Dong is no stranger to politics. He served as a member of the Ontario Liberal party in the Ontario Legislative Assembly, representing the Trinity-Spadina constituency from 2014 to 2018. Following that, he transitioned into federal politics, winning consecutive elections in Don Valley North as a Liberal candidate in 2019 and 2021.

However, Dong's political career faced a significant challenge in 2023 when he resigned from the federal Liberal caucus amid controversy related to claims regarding his alleged communications with the Chinese Consulate. This incident gained attention following a report from Global News, which eventually led to a public inquiry into foreign interference. The final report on the Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference ultimately cleared him of any wrongdoing in 2025, and he later settled a defamation lawsuit against Global News.

As the election approaches, Dong aims to engage with the community and present his vision for the future of Scarborough North, urging residents to consider his experience and commitment to improving the area.