Ontario Liberal Party Set to Reveal New Leader on Nov. 21

Ontario Liberal Party Set to Reveal New Leader on Nov. 21

The Ontario Liberal Party has announced that its new leader will be revealed on November 21. This decision comes as part of the party’s leadership election process. Liberal members will be able to vote online from November 9 to 20 using a ranked ballot system.

Details of the Leadership Election

Interim party leader John Fraser expressed optimism about this opportunity. He believes it can fortify the party’s foundation. “This leadership process allows local Liberals to enhance our associations and invite new members to join our movement,” Fraser stated.

  • Voting Period: November 9 to 20
  • Announcement of the Leader: November 21
  • Voting Method: Online ranked ballot

Background on the Leadership Change

The Ontario Liberals have been without a permanent leader since Bonnie Crombie’s resignation last month. Crombie, who was elected leader in 2023, led the party into the winter elections last year. Although the party increased its seat count, it finished third, behind the Progressive Conservatives and the Ontario NDP.

Crombie also did not win a seat in the last election. Following her resignation, several candidates have shown interest in the leadership role.

Potential Candidates

  • Nate Erskine-Smith
  • Lee Fairclough
  • Adil Shamji
  • Rob Cerjanec

Nate Erskine-Smith plans to run for the leadership position. He was the runner-up in the 2023 leadership race. In addition, he intends to compete in the upcoming provincial byelection for Scarborough Southwest.

Current members of the Ontario Liberal Party, including Fairclough, Shamji, and Cerjanec, are also contemplating their bids for the leadership role. All candidates must submit their nomination papers by July 31.

This leadership election represents a critical moment for the Ontario Liberal Party as it seeks to rebuild and regain its influence in provincial politics.