2025-02-14: Natasha Doyle-Merrick on X
I recognize the race in Eglinton–Lawrence is a clear two-party contest between Liberals and Conservatives. To prevent a Conservative win and more years of neglect, I’m stepping aside to avoid a vote split. Please read my statement below.
#ONPoli #EgLaw #TOpoli
Natasha Doyle-Merrick
NDP Candidate for Eglinton-Lawrence
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
After much reflection, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw my candidacy in this provincial election.
The Lawrence Heights Community is my home. It is a place full of talented, intelligent and ambitious people who deserve to be heard and not used in political elections every four years for votes. They deserve political leaders who care and listen to their needs in the same way they listen to other constituents in the Eglinton-Lawrence riding.
So many people in Eglinton-Lawrence are eager for change. They want a candidate to be elected that is dedicated to driving change for ALL communities. My decision to run in this election was because I wanted to amplify the voices of community members who are currently being ignored by the incumbent.
This election is crucial because the past seven years Doug Ford and the Ontario Conservatives have been absent and ineffective, showing zero interest in delivering the support ALL residents in Eglinton-Lawrence need to thrive.
I got into politics for the people, and it would be a disservice for me to keep my name on the ballot knowing that the race in Eglinton-Lawrence is pivotal. Many residents cannot afford another four years of an Ontario Conservative government. This is why I have decided it was best to no longer be in this election, as it is clear that it is a two-party contest between the Ontario Liberals and Ontario Conservatives.
To everyone who has supported my campaign - thank you and I hope you all understand this decision was not easy, but one that had to be made to ensure Eglinton-Lawrence is well-represented. This movement has never been about one person, it's about all of us, coming together to right for a better future. Let's keep pushing for real change.
Sincerely,
Natasha Doyle-Merrick.
Wow. This is incredibly responsible. That's a way to workaround the FPTP electoral system. Campaign and organize during the downtime. Withdraw where you have insignificant chance to win. Spend the effort to win the seats you can. Try again during the next cycle.
My riding is also one where the NDP doesn't cross the 10% line. Theaat time around the PC candidate won by a much smaller margin. I really liked the NDP candidate but if she withdrew, the PCs would have likely lost this riding.