Gould calls out ‘very, very high’ Liberal leadership fee ahead of fundraising deadline

Liberal leadership contender Karina Gould has expressed concerns about her campaign’s ability to meet the financial requirements to stay in the race. She emphasized the need to reach what she described as an “extremely aggressive fundraising deadline” in order to compete for the position of Liberal leader and potentially Canada’s next prime minister. Candidates are required to pay a total of $350,000 in instalments, with a significant portion of $125,000 due by 5 p.m. on Friday.

Gould, a former House leader, expressed confidence in her campaign’s ability to meet the impending deadline but highlighted the challenges posed by the high entry fee set by the party. She noted that the steep financial requirement has deterred potential candidates from entering the race and has even led to some dropping out. During a news conference, she criticized the party establishment for creating barriers to entry for aspiring candidates.

The leadership hopeful highlighted that a majority of her donations come from everyday Canadians, with 85% being $200 or less, indicating broad support from the public. Gould emphasized the importance of having a diverse range of voices in the leadership race to facilitate a meaningful debate on the future direction of the party and the country.

In contrast, Montreal businessman Frank Baylis expressed confidence in meeting the fundraising deadline and presented a three-point government reform plan aimed at instituting term limits for senators and MPs, redistributing power to MPs, and fostering a more inclusive political landscape. Baylis emphasized the need for fresh perspectives in Ottawa and advocated for a system that encourages turnover and new voices.

Both Gould and Baylis showcased their policy proposals ahead of the deadline, with Gould outlining her housing policy, which includes initiatives to accelerate housing projects and provide financial support to first-time homebuyers. Additionally, she committed to meeting Canada’s NATO defence spending target by 2027. Other contenders such as former finance minister Chrystia Freeland and former central banker Mark Carney have also pledged to prioritize defense spending if elected leader.

As the race for Liberal leadership continues, candidates are actively pitching their policy platforms and engaging with voters. The Liberal Party will select its next leader, and potentially Canada’s next prime minister, on March 9.