High voter turnout, long lines, and a loud message from the people: Vancouver’s city council just got a shakeup
Vancouver voters made their voices heard this weekend, electing two new city councillors in a byelection that saw surprisingly strong voter turnout — and some frustration at the polls.
Unofficially elected are Sean Orr, representing the Coalition of Progressive Electors (COPE), and Lucy Maloney of OneCity. Their wins mark a shift in momentum on council, as both campaigned on bold platforms focused on housing and livability.
Who Are the New Councillors?
- Sean Orr: A long-time housing advocate, Orr built his campaign on protecting renters, increasing affordability, and standing up for working-class Vancouverites.
- Lucy Maloney: An environmental lawyer, Maloney’s campaign focused on safer streets, better infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians, and sustainable urban development.
Both candidates positioned themselves as progressive voices determined to tackle the city’s deepening challenges around housing, homelessness, and affordability.
“These results show Vancouverites are demanding real action — not more delays — on the issues that matter,” said Maloney after her victory.
Voter Turnout Surged — and So Did Wait Times
Over 67,900 eligible voters cast ballots across 25 polling stations, with an additional 5,400 mail-in votes submitted — a turnout that marked a 40% increase compared to the 2017 byelection.
But the enthusiasm came with logistical headaches. Voters reported long lineups, some waiting an hour or more to vote. Many blamed the bottlenecks on the city’s controversial decision to cut the number of polling stations in half compared to 2017.
Complaints Already Rolling In
TEAM for a Livable Vancouver, which ran two candidates in the byelection, announced plans to formally complain about the lack of staffing and resources.
“It’s outrageous to ask voters to wait an hour or more,” said TEAM spokesperson Sal Robinson. “Poor planning clearly discouraged people from exercising their democratic right.”
The city’s Chief Elections Officer is expected to officially certify the results on Wednesday. However, regardless of formalities, the message from voters is clear: they want stronger leadership and faster progress on pressing urban issues.
What Prompted the Byelection?
The byelection was held to fill two vacant seats:
- One left by Adriane Carr of the Green Party, who resigned
- Another by Christine Boyle of OneCity, who was elected to the provincial legislature
The newly elected councillors are expected to take their seats at the next council meeting on Tuesday.
Final Take: Voters Show Up — and Speak Out
Increased turnout, frustration at the polls, and a decisive shift in council representation — this weekend’s vote was more than just a routine byelection. It was a sign that Vancouver residents are deeply engaged, and ready to hold their elected officials accountable.
With housing and affordability dominating the conversation, all eyes will now be on the new councillors to deliver on the promises that won them their seats.
