Speculations that District of Muskoka Chair Jeff Lehman may be running for the leadership of the Ontario Liberal Party have been put to rest.
Lehman said his priorities are elsewhere in response to an email query by Doppler.
“I’m not going to run for OLP (Ontario Liberal Party) leader. I made a commitment to Muskoka that I don’t intend to break. And always my family is my first concern in life and I need to put them first as we’re trying to navigate the next steps on Nova’s health journey,” stated Lehman in a September 22 email to Doppler, referring to his young daughter, Nova.
Lehman also took to social media and thanked everyone who had suggested that he run.
“Well. Over the past week I’ve been honoured by the number of calls and messages I’ve received encouraging me to run for leader of the Ontario Liberal Party. I have a deep love for this Province and belief that there is so much good work to do across Ontario,” he stated on his Facebook page.
“However, my family is my first concern and I need to put them first as we navigate the next steps on Nova’s health journey. I also made a commitment to Muskoka that I don’t intend to break. As such, I won’t be seeking the OLP leadership,” he stated, adding, “It’s my hope OLP will choose a format for the leadership race that allows many candidates and the widest possible participation. Many good people are looking at the race and I encourage them all to seek the opportunity to serve.
“As a municipal leader now for almost 20 years, I still believe public service is one of the highest callings, despite the many challenges that come with it. Ultimately, public office at any level is a wonderful opportunity to try to leave the place just a little better for our kids, that’s the most meaningful work possible.”
Lehman served as the Mayor of Barrie from 2010 to 2022. He ran in the 2022 Ontario general election as the Liberal candidate for Barrie-Springwater-Oro-Medonte, but lost to Progressive Conservative incumbent Doug Downey in a close race.
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When Jeff Lehman was the mayor of Barrie, he overdeveloped it. That’s why we moved north. Can’t stand to go to Innisfil or Barrie now.
It is unforttunate he is not running for Liberal leadership. He has done nothing here and look at the mess Barrie is in.
Nothing could be worse than having a sick child. No one in Muskoka would blame you Mr. Lehman if you resigned as district chair to look after your family. Don’t worry about your commitment to Muskoka. I wish Nova, you and your family all the best.
Just as well. The Liberals have enough problems. Is he doing that well as district chair.?