From the frying pan to the fire- O’Toole readies for his next challenge

OTTAWA — Erin O’Toole is the new leader of the federal Conservatives, and must now quickly assemble his team ahead of Parliament’s return next month.

O’Toole emerged the victor early this morning after three rounds of counting, with 57 per cent of the vote. It was a resounding win over his rival Peter MacKay, who won 43 per cent. MacKay had been seen as the establishment candidate, and went into the race as the presumptive front-runner. O’Toole was supported by, among others, Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo MP Cathy McLeod.

During his campaign, O’Toole focused on keeping the party close to what he called its “true blue” fundamentals. In his acceptance speech, O’Toole promised to work to unite the party, champion Conservative values and hold Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to account.