The Ontario Liberals recently conducted a comprehensive review of their performance in the provincial election, revealing that their emphasis on health care and the family doctor shortage did not resonate with voters who were more concerned about affordability. Despite increasing their seat total and regaining official party status in the legislature, the Liberals fell short of winning the election or forming the Official Opposition. Leader Bonnie Crombie also did not secure her seat.
Based on feedback from over 1,200 individuals including candidates, campaign managers, and party members, the party acknowledged the need for improvement in various areas. Criticism was directed towards the campaign platform, which although initially focused on health care, failed to align with voters’ primary concerns about affordability and economic uncertainty.
While Crombie’s platform centered on the family doctor shortage, Premier Doug Ford’s campaign primarily targeted the fight against U.S. President Donald Trump and tariffs, resulting in the Progressive Conservatives securing a third consecutive majority government with 80 seats. Participants in the Liberal review expressed the view that the party lacked a distinct message to differentiate itself from the NDP or Progressive Conservatives and failed to effectively define Ford.
Despite successes in fundraising and debt repayment, the Liberals aim to increase campaign spending for the next election. The review also highlights the importance of maintaining robust fundraising and volunteer coordination efforts between elections to enhance the party’s preparedness for future campaigns.