Toronto City Councillor Josh Matlow says he is keeping the door open to a potential bid for the leadership of the Ontario Liberal Party, as the party prepares to launch its leadership race early next month.
Speaking to reporters at city hall, Matlow said he has been approached by people across Ontario encouraging him to step forward, describing them as individuals “who are looking for leadership” and eager to challenge Premier Doug Ford.
While emphasizing that he has not made a decision and remains focused on his role as councillor for Toronto–St. Paul’s, Matlow said he is listening closely to those calling for change. He pointed to dissatisfaction with the Ford government’s record on health care and education, saying many Ontarians want a credible alternative.
First elected to Toronto city council in 2010, Matlow has since won three re-elections and secured 85 per cent of the vote in his 2022 council race. He placed fifth in the 2023 mayoral byelection, which was won by Olivia Chow.
Matlow has long been a vocal critic of Ford, dating back to the premier’s time on city council. In recent months, he has used his platform to oppose the provincial government’s decision to close the Ontario Science Centre and has called for greater transparency around the delayed Eglinton Crosstown LRT project.
The Ontario Liberals, currently led by interim leader John Fraser, are expected to announce full details of their leadership contest by Feb. 9. The party has struggled to regain footing since losing power in 2018 and remains in third place behind the Progressive Conservatives and the New Democrats at Queen’s Park.
Several current and former politicians are expected to consider leadership bids, as the next leader will have time to rebuild the party ahead of the next provincial election, expected in 2029 or 2030.