The race to become the next leader of the Ontario Liberal Party is heating up. “I know how to win,” said candidate Dylan Marando. “I know how to govern, I know how to get the big stuff done.” Also in the running is Eric Lombardi. “I am the only candidate that has put forth a robust agenda for change,” said Lombardi. “Ontario can still win.” Lee Fairclough, Ontario’s MPP for Etobicoke-Lakeshore, is also competing for the party’s top job. “It is getting urgent to make sure we see change in this province,” said Fairclough. The fourth candidate is Navdeep Bains. “People are looking for new ideas,” said Bains. “They’re looking for a new vision and that’s what I’m focused on.” The candidates are touring the province, meeting party members, and supporters, and made a stop in London Thursday night. “It’s so good to be connecting with people from the southwest, I’ve been doing a lot of travel, I’ve been to 70 ridings already,” said Fairclough. “Being here tonight I’m hearing about issues that matter, there are some regional differences.” The event was held at Museum London and gave attendees the opportunity to ask questions and speak directly with candidates. “What I’m hearing from a lot of folks is the real challenge that they’re facing with the cost of living,” said Bains. “It’s a real struggle.” “The economy is the most important issue facing the province right now,” said Lombardi. “As are the affordability challenges so many families are facing.” The next leader is expected to lead the party into the next provincial election against Premier Doug Ford’s progressive conservatives and the other opposition parties. “I think the milk has soured on Doug Ford,” said Marando. “It’s going to be chunky by the time the next election rolls around.” “I also played rugby for the Canadian women’s rugby team so some people would say that’s proof enough,” said Fairclough. “She’s tough enough to take them on.” Party members will vote in November to choose a permanent leader, and the results will be announced on Nov. 21.
