Tsawwassen First Nation re-elects Chief Laura Cassidy to lead second term

Tsawwassen First Nation members have reaffirmed their confidence in their current leadership, re-electing incumbent Chief Laura Cassidy for a second term. In a vote held on Saturday, 17 October 2026, Cassidy secured 116 ballots, defeating challenger Bryce Williams, who received 88 votes. Cassidy brings over two decades of experience as a nation legislator to the role as the community navigates significant environmental and social challenges. The election results represent a period of stability for the British Columbia-based nation. While municipal elections across the province saw many incumbent mayors lose their seats, Tsawwassen First Nation voters chose to return the majority of their top leadership. Joining Cassidy on the executive council are returning members Taylor Baker, Valerie Cross, and Louise Ahlm. Dawn Williams is also expected to join the council, filling the seat vacated by Bryce Williams during his bid for the chieftainship. Chief Cassidy has identified community well-being as her primary focus, particularly as members continue to process the loss of two elders killed in a vehicle crash on Truth and Reconciliation Day. Cassidy stated her first priority is supporting community members through their recovery while awaiting further investigation results from Delta Police. Alongside this emotional recovery, the Chief remains committed to advancing education, health care, housing, and community safety. The leadership team will also manage the nation’s response to major proposed federal projects, including the Pacific Link pipeline and an expansion of the Delta port. Executive councillor Taylor Baker noted that her priorities for the new term include treaty rights and sustainable economic development that aligns with the nation's cultural values. Approximately 200 ballots were cast in the election, representing about half of the nation's eligible voters.