Freeland Urges Liberal Leadership Contenders to Commit to Running as Members of Parliament
Former finance minister Chrystia Freeland is calling for four Liberal leadership debates and urging all candidates to commit to running in the next election under the party banner, regardless of the outcome.
In an open letter to the other candidates, Freeland proposed holding four debates – two in each official language – as soon as possible. She emphasized the importance of allowing Canadians to see the candidates debate ideas and the future of the party and country without delay.
Freeland also called on each candidate to pledge to run as a Liberal candidate in the next election and serve in the next Parliament, demonstrating a commitment to the party and Canadians.
Meanwhile, one of Freeland’s main rivals, former central banker Mark Carney, was expected to make headlines before an endorsement event was unexpectedly cancelled due to a scheduling conflict.
Despite the cancellation, Northern Ontario Liberal MPs were prepared to endorse Carney for leader, with Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu backing him. The event is likely to be rescheduled in northern Ontario.
Hajdu, representing Thunder Bay-Superior North, commended Carney’s knowledge on regional issues and endorsed him, along with other MPs and Carney himself.
Liberal caucus discussions and election planning continued on Parliament Hill as the party seeks a replacement for Justin Trudeau by March 9. Candidates have until Monday to sign up new members for voting.
The registration deadline has passed, with no new challengers allowed. Candidates must pay a steep entry fee by Feb. 17 to remain in the race.
Candidates engaged in campaign activities in Ottawa with receptions as they strive to strengthen their campaigns. The current field includes Carney, Freeland, and other MPs and former MPs, pending review by the party to determine ballot eligibility.
