By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Marie-Claude Bibeau, the MP for Compton-Stanstead and Minister of National Revenue, announced on Oct. 21 that she will not seek re-election in the upcoming federal election. Instead, she plans to run for Mayor of Sherbrooke as an independent candidate in 2025. The announcement was made during a press conference held at Square Queen in Lennoxville, where Bibeau addressed reporters and the public alongside her family and colleagues.
Bibeau explained that her decision was motivated by a “growing feeling” and encouragement from the community. She noted that residents often approached her at local spots, such as grocery stores and while walking at Lac des Nations, urging her to take on a municipal role. “It’s a call that has grown stronger over the months,” she said, adding that she feels ready to bring her experience to serve Sherbrooke directly.
She clarified during the press conference that while she intends to run for mayor, this is not yet the launch of her campaign. “I remain a full-time MP for Compton-Stanstead until the next federal election,” she stated, indicating that any campaigning will wait until her federal responsibilities conclude.
In her remarks, Bibeau addressed why she chose not to follow other Liberal colleagues like Pablo Rodriguez, who recently launched leadership bids or provincial campaigns. “It wouldn’t be fair to my constituents to divide my focus,” she told reporters. Bibeau emphasized that her decision to run as an independent reflects her commitment to providing “ambitious, pragmatic, and collaborative leadership” without partisan affiliations. She mentioned her husband, Bernard Sevigny, a former mayor of Sherbrooke (2009-2017), as a valuable source of advice but stressed that her decisions remain her own. “I am ready to lead with the experience I’ve gained and my knowledge of the city and its diverse communities.”
Bibeau also addressed her current ministerial role. In response to reporters, she clarified that continuing as the Minister of National Revenue until the election would depend on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s decision. “There might be a shuffle,” she said, acknowledging the possibility of a cabinet adjustment. However, she committed to completing her term as MP, regardless of her ministerial status, adding that her campaign for mayor would officially begin after the federal election.
