Liberal MP Shaun Chen announced Monday that he will resign from his seat in the House of Commons [3].
Chen's departure leaves the riding of Scarborough North without representation until a successor is chosen. His resignation highlights the physical toll of the commute between Ontario ridings and the federal capital in Ottawa.
The resignation is effective Aug. 15, 2024 [1]. Chen said the decision follows a serious motor-vehicle accident that occurred while he was commuting to Ottawa [1].
"In late fall 2025, I suffered a serious motor vehicle accident, while commuting to Ottawa, which has caused significant health issues that now prevent me from travelling there as frequently," Chen said [1].
While one report indicates the accident occurred in late fall 2025 [1], other reports state the accident happened in late 2024 [2]. Chen said the resulting health issues have made it impossible to maintain the travel requirements of his office [1].
Chen has represented the Scarborough North riding since 2015 [1]. He has served as a member of the Liberal party for more than 10 years [1].
In a statement provided to news outlets, Chen said he plans to resign at the end of this week [2]. The announcement was made public on Monday [3].
“"In late fall 2025, I suffered a serious motor vehicle accident... which has caused significant health issues."”
The resignation of a long-serving MP like Shaun Chen creates a political vacancy in a key Ontario riding. Because the departure is based on health limitations regarding travel to the capital, it underscores the ongoing logistical challenges faced by representatives in ridings distant from Ottawa.
