On October 25, 2026, the Prince Edward Island Liberal Party will hold a leadership election to elect a permanent successor to Hal Perry, who became interim leader following the resignation of Robert Mitchell. It resulted in the acclamation of Dan Kutcher.
Background The contest was prompted by the resignation of Robert Mitchell, who stepped down after losing the 2025 Georgetown-Pownal provincial by-election and the 2026 Cornwall-Meadowbank provincial by-election.
The leadership was won by former Summerside mayor Dan Kutcher, who was acclaimed. He officially became leader-designate on September 5, and will formally become leader at the party's convention on October 25, 2026.
Timeline July 16, 2026 – Robert Mitchell resigns as leader of the Liberal Party. Hal Perry is selected as interim leader. August 6, 2026 – Party announces the rules and procedures for the election. September 4, 2026 – Last day for candidates to declare. First candidate entrance fee installment due. September 18, 2026 – Second candidate entrance fee installment due. October 13, 2026 – Last day to join the party in order to be eligible to vote. October 25, 2026 – Leadership convention.
Candidates Declared Dan Kutcher, mayor of Summerside (2022–2026)
Declined Heath MacDonald, MP for Malpeque (2021–present), MLA for Cornwall-Meadowbank (2015–2021) Carolyn Simpson, MLA for Charlottetown-Hillsborough Park (2025–present)
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