Kitchener councillor Debbie Chapman will run for NDP in upcoming byelection

Kitchener city councillor Debbie Chapman will run for Ontario's NDP in an upcoming byelection in Kitchener Centre.

The Kitchener Centre seat will become vacant in July when current NDP MPP Laura Mae Lindo will step down. Chapman is the councillor for Ward 9, serving her second term.

Chapman is the second Kitchener councillor to run for the upcoming byelection. Ward 10 Coun. Aislinn Clancy has been chosen to run for the Ontario Greens.

Chapman was chosen to represent the NDP Tuesday night, saying she was honoured to be chosen as the Ontario NDP candidate.

"I've seen firsthand the challenges faced in our community, brought on by years of under investment by the Ford government," Chapman said in a release.

"I'm running because I know that a better Ontario is possible. I'm excited for the chance to join the strong Official Opposition team and bring our community's voice to Queen's Park."

"I know that together, we can win more for our community, and people across the province," she added.

Premier Doug Ford has six months to call a byelection in the riding once Lindo vacates the seat.

The Ontario Liberals nominated Kelly Steiss in the upcoming byelection on Monday. The Progressive Conservatives have not yet named a candidate.