Two Candidates Confirmed for P.E.I. Progressive Conservative Leadership Race

Rob Lantz and Mark Ledwell are the two candidates for the P.E.I. Progressive Conservative leadership, with voting set for February 7.

Two Candidates Confirmed for P.E.I. Progressive Conservative Leadership Race
Two Candidates Confirmed for P.E.I. Progressive Conservative Leadership Race

The P.E.I. Progressive Conservative party has confirmed two candidates for its leadership race. Rob Lantz and Mark Ledwell are the only applicants who submitted their names before the deadline.

Rob Lantz previously served as interim premier after Dennis King resigned in February 2025. He stepped down from this role in December to run for the permanent leadership position. Lantz has a background in information technology and has been involved in business startups. He also served two terms on the Charlottetown city council and became an MLA for District 13 in 2023.

Mark Ledwell declared his candidacy in May. He has over 35 years of experience in business and law, focusing on agri-food, infrastructure, energy, and financing transactions. Ledwell played a key role in major infrastructure projects, including the Confederation Bridge and the New Brunswick Trans-Canada Highway. He has also served as managing partner of law firms in Toronto and London.

The P.E.I. Progressive Conservative party announced that new members must sign up by January 16 to vote in the leadership contest. The leadership convention will take place on February 7.

Date Event Details
February 2025 Dennis King Resignation Rob Lantz became interim premier.
December 2025 Lantz Steps Down Lantz resigned to run for permanent leadership.
May 2026 Ledwell Declares Candidacy Mark Ledwell announces his intention to run.
January 16, 2026 Membership Deadline New members must sign up to vote.
February 7, 2026 Leadership Convention Voting for the new party leader.
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