Ali Ehsassi
- Born
- April 24, 1970 — Geneva, Switzerland
- Education
- BA, University of Toronto; MSc, London School of Economics; LLB, York University Osgoode Hall Law School; Masters of International Trade and Arbitration Law, Georgetown University Law School
- Political Experience
- Liberal Member of Parliament for Willowdale since 2015; Minister of Government Transformation, Public Services and Procurement (March 14, 2025 – May 13, 2025); Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs and One Canadian Economy (2025)
- Notable
- One of the first two Canadians of Iranian heritage elected to federal Parliament; Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Prevention of Genocide and other Crimes against Humanity; Co-Chair of the 416 Caucus; Opposes the Iranian government.
Based on publicly available information — may contain inaccuracies
Business & Financial Interests
Before entering federal politics, Ali Ehsassi had a career as a lawyer and a public servant. He reportedly worked as a lawyer in both the private and public sectors. His public service career included positions with the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (now Global Affairs Canada) and the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development and Trade. This background provided him with experience in international law, trade, and diplomacy.
Key Relationships & Connections
Ali Ehsassi has been publicly associated with former Justice Minister and human rights advocate Irwin Cotler. They have reportedly worked together on various human rights files, particularly concerning Iran. As a Member of Parliament, he also works closely with other members of the Liberal caucus and has served as Chair of parliamentary committees, including the Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights, which involves relationships with legal experts and civil society organizations.
Public Controversies
Ali Ehsassi has faced public criticism from some members of the Iranian-Canadian community regarding his and the Liberal government's stance on the Islamic Republic of Iran. In 2023, he was criticized for voting against a Conservative motion to immediately list the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization. Ehsassi defended his vote, stating that the government was already using other powerful tools and sanctions against the IRGC and that the issue was complex. The debate highlighted divisions within the community on the most effective approach to dealing with the Iranian regime.
Where Ali falls on key policy spectrums
Your Money
People & Society
How We're Governed
Land & Community
Ali Ehsassi won with 25,488 votes (53.4%)
Total votes cast: 47,689
How does Ali Ehsassi's voting record line up with your values?
Madam Speaker, I am not quite sure what he means when he talks about obfuscating. I listed a number of measures that have been introduced by government. If the member chooses to ignore them, then I cannot possibly be charged with obfuscating. It is interesting that the member claims to care about food, but he does not seem to find it within himself to support any of those programs that I listed
Madam Speaker, I can only go by the question the member provided us with earlier. If the question is whether we are the type of country that is welcoming investment from various sources to make sure there is economic growth, the answer is absolutely. He knows full well that there are a number of Canadian institutions that are very interested in investing in infrastructure projects, and that, of
Madam Speaker, affordability is at the forefront of the government's attention. That includes, of course, food affordability, so I am very happy to provide a response. As I suggested to the previous member, the global landscape is rapidly changing, leaving economies, businesses and workers under a cloud of uncertainty. In response, our new government has focused on what we can control, such as
Madam Speaker, allow me to start off by emphasizing that the global landscape is rapidly changing, leaving businesses, workers and families under a cloud of uncertainty. As a result of all these geopolitical shifts, the costs of groceries and everyday essentials in Canada have been high for way too long. We believe our economy is stronger when it serves everyone. That is why we took action to