The Ontario Liberal Party has made a significant leadership change, parting ways with Bonnie Crombie. This decision comes as the party prepares for the next election cycle. Crombie, who will be 69 by the time of the next election, does not hold a seat in the legislature and has struggled to establish a clear identity for herself and the party.

Crombie's leadership faced criticism for indecision and a lack of political instincts. After receiving only 57 percent support at a recent convention, she initially indicated she would remain in her position. However, following discussions about the implications of that decision, she ultimately chose to resign. This resignation follows a disappointing election result in February, where the Liberals garnered 30 percent of the popular vote but secured only 14 seats. Notably, Crombie lost her own riding in Mississauga, where she had previously served as mayor for a decade.

The challenge of leading the party from outside the legislature proved to be insurmountable. It was also telling that no members of her caucus offered to vacate their seats to support her leadership. Voter confusion about Crombie's political stance was evident, as she initially claimed she would govern from a center-right position but later retracted that statement, calling it a misstatement.

Crombie aimed to focus the election on health care but failed to present a clear and memorable policy on the issue. In contrast, Progressive Conservative leader Doug Ford effectively capitalized on the political landscape, discussing American tariffs and presenting a viable plan to expand primary care coverage, which undermined Crombie's health care agenda.

The Ontario Liberals now face the challenge of selecting a new leader. The party must ensure that the new leader is a sitting member of the legislature to avoid the pitfalls Crombie encountered. Some potential candidates from the federal level may face the same issue of lacking a seat.

Despite the challenges, there is a path forward for the Ontario Liberals. Recent polling indicates that a significant portion of voters believe the Ford government is underperforming on key issues such as cost of living, health care, and housing affordability. As Ford approaches a potential fourth term, questions about his future in politics may present an opportunity for the Liberals.

The party must strategically position itself to attract voters from the Progressive Conservatives rather than shifting leftward to compete with the New Democratic Party. Crombie's brief advocacy for a center-right approach may still hold relevance, especially as Ford's government has faced criticism for its spending and deficits.

Liberal finance critic Stephanie Bowman has already begun to challenge the Ford government on its financial management, indicating a shift in strategy. As the political landscape evolves, the Ontario Liberals have taken a crucial first step by acknowledging the need for change in leadership. This move reflects a desire for success, contrasting with the NDP's current trajectory.