The Ontario Liberal leadership election got underway in Thunder Bay with a debate. This is the only stop on the debate trail in Northern Ontario, so there was a heightened focus on the region during the discussion. Various topics were discussed, from mining to housing, but there was a particular focus on health care.

The one thing all candidates agree on is that Premier Doug Ford needs to be replaced.

The candidates have a couple of weeks off before they get back on the road to debate again on October 1 in Stratford. After that there will be stops in Toronto, Ottawa, and Brampton.

Party members will cast their ballots on November 25 and 26th with the new leader of the Ontario Liberal Party being announced on December 2.

For those who missed the debate, you can watch the recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/deVF3f_UjUo?si=fOteZONTLO-pP7Gn

Candidate and position:

Bonnie Crombie: Mayor of Mississauga, former Member of Parliament

Nathaniel Erskine-Smith: Member of Parliament for Beaches-East York

Ted Hsu: Member of Provincial Parliament

Yasir Naqvi: Member of Parliament for Ottawa Centre former Attorney General

Adil Shamji: Member of Provincial Parliament