Federal Members of Parliament (MPs) are elected representatives in the House of Commons, each representing a geographic constituency (riding). MPs connect their communities to the federal government, raising local concerns in Parliament, advocating for funding, assisting constituents with federal services, and voting on legislation. Most ridings include portions of municipalities or entire municipalities, so MPs represent municipal interests alongside individual constituents. Effective MPs understand their communities' infrastructure needs, economic challenges, and service gaps. Municipalities engage their MPs to advocate for federal funding, influence legislation affecting local government, and address issues with federal services. While MPs represent parties and vote along party lines on most matters, they also serve as constituency advocates regardless of party. Municipal officials build relationships with their MPs, keeping them informed about local priorities and seeking their support on issues requiring federal attention.