Liberal Leadership Candidates Debate Economy, US Relations in Montreal

During a recent debate in the Beaches–East York provincial riding, candidates Mary-Margaret McMahon (Liberal), Kate Dupuis (NDP), and Jack Pennings (Green Party) discussed pressing issues like housing, healthcare, education, and the environment, while Conservative candidate Anna Michaelidis was absent. McMahon emphasized the Liberal plan to enhance housing affordability, proposing measures such as cutting development charges and introducing a Better Communities Fund, although details on housing construction were vague. Dupuis criticized the absence of the Conservative candidate, framing the election as a chance to prioritize the people's needs over the wealthy. The debate highlighted a growing concern in Ontario regarding housing starts, which have declined significantly compared to the previous year. The candidates collectively acknowledged the urgent need for sustainable housing solutions in light of these statistics.