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Russ Wyatt, the city councillor representing Transcona, has confirmed he will seek re-election in Winnipeg’s upcoming municipal election, despite facing two sexual assault charges.
Wyatt told Global News he plans to continue his campaign and filed his registration paperwork on Monday afternoon. However, the submission had not yet appeared on the city’s official website at the time of reporting.
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Charges and Council Status
Wyatt has faced two separate sexual assault charges since March. He has denied both allegations and has not been convicted in court. Earlier this year, the city removed him from his council committee positions. Despite that, he has kept his seat as Transcona’s councillor. Winnipeg’s City Charter does not bar a councillor from serving after a charge. Only a conviction triggers removal from office.
In a statement to Global News, Wyatt defended his decision to run again. “Time and time again, I have stood up to the powers that be and they would love to get rid of me,” he said. “But I see the mess this city is in today.” He added that Transcona and working people need “a truly independent voice at City Hall that will not cave into power.”
A Crowded Race in Transcona
Wyatt will face several opponents in the Transcona ward. Confirmed candidates include former Transcona councillor Shawn Nason, as well as Chris Giesbrecht, Lora Meseman and Nathine Dagdick. The deadline for candidates to register was Tuesday.
Winnipeg’s municipal election is scheduled for October 28. The Transcona race is shaping up to be one of the more closely watched contests, given Wyatt’s legal situation and the presence of a former councillor among the challengers.
Wyatt has not stepped back from public life since the charges emerged. Instead, he has maintained that he remains committed to representing his constituents. The outcome of his legal proceedings remains separate from the electoral process under current city rules.
