Two-way mayoral race signals potential shift in Fredericton politics

Jenica Atwin, left, and Steve Hicks are both running to be Fredericton’s next mayor. (Credit: Facebook)

With incumbent mayor Kate Rogers opting not to seek re-election, the upcoming municipal election in Fredericton has become a competitive two-person race between former federal MP Jenica Atwin and longtime city councillor Steve Hicks.

Their contrasting backgrounds and priorities have energized residents, setting the stage for a race that many see as a turning point for the city.

Atwin represented Fredericton in the House of Commons of Canada from 2019 to 2025. She first entered federal politics with the Green Party of Canada before joining the Liberal Party of Canada in 2021.

Now turning to municipal politics, Atwin says she’s eager to connect more closely with Fredericton residents and hear their concerns firsthand.

“Municipal governance is really the level of government closest to the people,” Atwin said in an interview with Global News. “My work has always been about people and I love this city so much, my whole heart and soul [are] here.”

Atwin said on campaign webpage her experience as an MP gives her a strong understanding of how different levels of government can work together to support Fredericton’s growth.

“Working as a member of Parliament over the last almost six years, I was in lockstep with what the city was doing,” she said, adding that she helped advocate for funding and programs to help the city “grow and thrive.”

Her campaign has focused on issues such as homelessness, public safety and building stronger partnerships with community organizations: concerns she hears about from residents every day.

Her opponent, Hicks, brings nearly two decades of municipal experience to the race. He has served on Fredericton City Council for 18 years and previously spent three years as deputy mayor.

Hicks said on his campaign that his long tenure means he’s heard from thousands of residents about what matters most to them and how city hall can respond.

“I’ve been there a long time, so obviously I know the ins and outs on how the city works,” Hicks stated, pointing to his familiarity with budgeting, staff and community relationships.

He said the city faces serious challenges and believes his experience makes him well-suited to address them.

“If things were going absolutely great, I probably wouldn’t offer,” Hicks said. “But I like to take on challenges and I think I’m the right person.”

Hicks has stated that issues such as addiction, mental health, homelessness and affordability will be key priorities in his campaign.

The mayoral race follows Rogers’ decision not to run again after serving as mayor since 2021. 

In announcing her decision, Rogers said she was “incredibly proud of what’s been accomplished” during her time in office and felt she had “accomplished what [she] set out to do.”

With Fredericton continuing to grow and face pressures related to housing, infrastructure and social services, the election could mark a shift in how the city approaches these challenges.

Residents will head to the polls on May 11 to choose the city’s next mayor.