Robert Mitchell Steps Down: Leadership Transition and a Clear Path Forward 

Following Monday's by-election in Cornwall-Meadowbank, Robert Mitchell has informed the party that he is stepping down as Leader of the Prince Edward Island Liberal Party.

Mitchell made the decision after reflecting on what the party needs heading into the legislative sitting this fall: a leader who holds a seat in the House. This morning, the PEI Liberal caucus met and appointed Hal Perry to serve as interim leader. The Party Executive has also begun the process of planning the next leadership convention.

"Serving the people of this province has been the greatest privilege of my life, but a leader needs to be on the floor of the legislature to look the premier in the eye," said Mitchell. "This decision was not made this week, nor was it made for me. I am incredibly proud that this party is in a stronger position today than it was before I became leader, and I know I didn't do it alone. None of it happens without my family, especially my wife Bonnie, and every volunteer and supporter who helped me along the way. There is no title more important to me than husband, father, and grandfather. I'm stepping aside because it's the right thing to do for the party I love, and I'll be cheering our caucus on every single day."

The Liberal family is grateful for Mitchell's service.

"We owe Robert Mitchell a debt of gratitude we can't really repay," said Katie Morello, President of the PEI Liberal Party. “Robert put this province and this party ahead of himself, whether he was serving as an MLA, stepping up as interim leader during a tough transition, or taking on the full mantle of leadership. He did the hard, quiet work of rebuilding our foundations when we needed it most, and it showed. In both by-elections he contested, he grew our vote share by double digits over 2023, and that kind of gain doesn't happen by accident. He leaves this role with our respect, and his work rebuilding this party will guide us going forward."

Morello also made clear the party has a plan and is moving on it.

"We have a plan, and it's already in motion," Morello continued. "Our caucus is united, and our executive has started the work of planning our next leadership convention, which will be held before the end of 2026. We'll share more on timelines and rules in the coming weeks. We're going to run an open process and choose a leader who can take us into the next election."

Newly appointed Interim Leader Hal Perry addressed where the party goes from here:

"Our focus is exactly where it's always been: working for the people of Prince Edward Island," said Hal Perry. "We're ready to take our seats and get to work, asking the questions that matter on healthcare, housing, and the cost of living and holding this government to account. Islanders are watching their power bills climb, and this government owes them more than talking points. That's where our energy is going."

Contact:
Zac Murphy
Vice-President, PEI Liberal Party 
[email protected]