Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante says she won’t run in 2025 election

Plante and her party are recognized for expanding public spaces for cyclists and pedestrians, but it led to accusations that she is anti-car

MONTREAL — Mayor Valérie Plante, the first woman elected to Montreal’s top job and whose vision for urban mobility helped make Montreal renowned for its many car-free streets, said Wednesday she won’t seek re-election in the November 2025 municipal elections.

Plante told reporters at city hall she doesn’t have a third four-year term in her.

“It is a heartbreaking decision. It was not easy to make because I do love my job,” Plante said. “Recently, I came to realize that I couldn’t commit to another four years and guarantee Montrealers the same level of energy I’ve always given.”