Paul Chiang, a Liberal candidate in the Toronto area, has withdrawn from the election race amid controversy regarding his recent comments suggesting people report a Conservative rival to the Chinese consulate. His remarks, which have drawn legal scrutiny by the RCMP, prompted significant opposition and calls from over 40 organizations for his dismissal. Though he initially received support from Liberal Leader Mark Carney after apologizing for his comments, escalating public pressure ultimately led to his decision to step aside in a bid to eliminate distractions during a critical election period, especially against the backdrop of geopolitical tensions involving China.
"As the prime minister and Team Canada work to stand up to President [Donald] Trump and protect our economy, I do not want there to be distractions in this critical moment," Chiang wrote.
"That's why I'm standing aside as our 2025 candidate in our community of Markham-Unionville," Chiang stated in his announcement.
Pressure mounted from opposition parties and more than 40 organizations demanding Carney immediately drop Chiang and for police to investigate.
Chiang, a former police officer, called his own comments 'deplorable' after news broke.
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