Michael Coteau
- Born
- Huddersfield, England
- Education
- Degree in history and political science, Carleton University
- Career
- Taught English in South Korea; Toronto District School Board Trustee; executive director and chief executive officer of a national adult literacy firm; community organizer with the United Way; small business owner
- Political Experience
- MP for Don Valley East (2021-2025); MPP for Don Valley East (2011-2021); Minister of Citizenship and Immigration; Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport; Minister Responsible for the 2015 Pan and Parapan American Games; Minister of Children and Youth Services; Minister of Community and Social Services
- Notable
- Came to Canada in 1976; grew up in social housing; ran in the 2020 Ontario Liberal Party leadership election, finishing second
Based on publicly available information — may contain inaccuracies
Business & Financial Interests
Before entering federal politics, Michael Coteau was a Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) in Ontario from 2011 to 2021. During his time as an MPP, he held several cabinet positions, including Minister of Children and Youth Services and Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. Prior to his career in provincial politics, Coteau served as a school board trustee for the Toronto District School Board. He also worked as the CEO of a national literacy charity. His financial disclosures as an MP list employment income from the Province of Ontario from his time as an MPP.
Key Relationships & Connections
As a former cabinet minister in the Ontario government, Coteau was a senior member of the administration under former Premier Kathleen Wynne. In 2020, he ran for the leadership of the Ontario Liberal Party, a contest that was ultimately won by Steven Del Duca. In federal politics, he is a member of the Liberal caucus under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Public Controversies
While serving as an Ontario cabinet minister, Coteau's living expenses reportedly faced media scrutiny. In 2016, reports questioned his claiming of a housing allowance that was available to MPPs whose primary residence was more than 50 kilometres from the legislature at Queen's Park. Coteau, who represented a Toronto riding, reportedly claimed the allowance to help cover costs for a condominium in the city. He stated at the time that he had followed all the rules as they were written.
Where Michael falls on key policy spectrums
Your Money
People & Society
How We're Governed
Land & Community
Michael Coteau won with 25,281 votes (60.4%)
Total votes cast: 41,868
How does Michael Coteau's voting record line up with your values?
Mr. Speaker, the member did mention just fighting hate, and he mentioned anti-hate legislation. A proposed change came through the Senate to include the noose as a hate symbol, which the Conservatives have voted against. Can you tell the House why it is important for us to put in place hate legislation and, more specifically, to fight against these hate symbols here in Canada?
Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the opportunity to speak on behalf of the people of Scarborough—Woburn and on behalf of families and patients across this country, people who have suffered from sickle cell. It is a great honour to channel their voice here in this great chamber. We have heard a lot about paperwork. We have heard a lot about transparency. We have heard a lot about the mechanics of how
Mr. Speaker, I ask that it pass on division.