Bonnie Crombie addressed Liberal delegates on Saturday, emphasizing the need for unity and support as she approached a leadership vote at the party's convention in Toronto. Her leadership has faced scrutiny following the results of the provincial election held in February. Although the Liberal Party regained its status for the first time in seven years, capturing 30 percent of the popular vote, Crombie did not win her own seat in Mississauga, where she had served as mayor for a decade.

Internal assessments of the party's campaign indicated that the focus on health care and the shortage of family doctors failed to resonate with voters, who were more concerned with issues related to affordability. Crombie acknowledged the defeat in her speech while asserting that instead of stepping down, she would implement necessary changes moving forward.

In her address, Crombie shifted the narrative to emphasize the themes of affordability and economic fairness. She urged delegates to question whether Ontarians are truly getting a fair shot under the leadership of Premier Doug Ford, stating, “After seven years of Doug Ford, ask yourself: Are Ontarians getting that fair shot? That’s why this weekend matters, that’s why this moment matters, because together we are rebuilding, we are refocusing, and we are getting ready.”

Crombie outlined her vision with the mantra of “Rebuild, refocus and ready,” asserting that these principles are not just slogans but represent a viable roadmap for the party's future. Her commitment is to reposition the Liberal Party as a serious alternative to Ford's governance.

The Liberal Party's constitution stipulates that Crombie needs to secure 50 percent plus one of the votes to maintain her leadership position. However, there are calls from Liberal MP Nate Erskine-Smith and a grassroots coalition known as The New Leaf Liberals for her resignation if she garners less than 66 percent support in the leadership vote. This places significant pressure on Crombie as she seeks to solidify her position among party delegates.

Crombie refrained from detailing her response should she fail to achieve the two-thirds support threshold, only expressing her “very confident” outlook regarding the results. She remains optimistic about her prospects for continuing as the party’s leader.

The results of the leadership vote are anticipated to be announced on Sunday afternoon, which will undoubtedly have significant implications for Crombie and the future direction of the Ontario Liberal Party.