Freeland calls for 4 Liberal leadership debates, challenges rivals to run no matter who wins

Liberal leadership hopeful Chrystia Freeland is pushing for a series of debates to be held before the Liberal Party’s leadership vote on March 9. In an open letter to her competitors, Freeland emphasized the importance of debating ideas and outlining a clear path forward for the party and the country. She specifically mentioned the need to demonstrate that the party is prepared to take on Pierre Poilievre in the upcoming election.

Freeland proposed holding two debates in each official language, but the Liberal Party has not yet confirmed the details of the debates. The party’s leadership vote committee will be responsible for establishing the rules for the debates. According to the current leadership rules, there will be at least one debate in English and one in French.

In addition to calling for debates, Freeland challenged her fellow candidates to commit to running as a Liberal MP regardless of the outcome of the leadership race. She emphasized the importance of unity within the party to defeat their political opponents.

Meanwhile, former central banker Mark Carney has emerged as a prominent contender in the leadership race, garnering support from numerous Liberal MPs, including key cabinet ministers. Carney has positioned himself as an outsider in the world of politics and has pledged to remain dedicated to his constituents, regardless of the election results.

Several candidates, including Freeland and Carney, have submitted their nomination paperwork and initial payment to enter the race. Former House leader Karina Gould, Nova Scotia MP Jaime Battiste, Ottawa MP Chandra Arya, and former MPs Frank Baylis and Ruby Dhalla have also taken steps to enter the leadership race.

The leadership race is proceeding on a tight timeline following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s resignation announcement, with an anticipated spring election on the horizon. As the candidates gear up for the upcoming debates and campaign trail, the Liberal Party is facing a crucial period of decision-making that will shape the future of the party and the country.