We have received inquiries about the $25 delegate fee. The leadership contest is required to operate on a full cost recovery basis. After reviewing the costs of the contest and its available sources of revenue, we have determined that a delegate fee of $25 is necessary. Eligible members may claim a 75% tax credit, which reduces the after-credit cost to $6.25 where the full credit is available. This post explains why there is a delegate fee and how the amount was determined.
Each leadership convention, including the 2026 leadership convention, is organized on a full cost recovery basis. Costs include the secure electronic voting system, candidate debates, data and other IT services, web and social media efforts, and the other expenses required to organize a province-wide leadership contest in 2026.
Leadership contests are funded through candidate entrance fees, an administrative fee on candidate fundraising, and delegate fees. Together, these revenues must cover the costs of the contest.
The delegate fee was originally set at two levels: $20 and $25. Because eligibility for the lower fee could not be verified during registration, we have determined that a single fee would provide a simpler and more consistent registration process. The $25 fee also reflects our obligation to operate the contest on a full cost recovery basis.
Eligible members may claim a 75% Nova Scotia political contribution tax credit, subject to the applicable limits. Where the full credit is available, the after-credit cost of the $25 delegate fee is $6.25. The Party does not have a separate membership fee, so this is also the total after-credit cost for a member to vote.
We recognize that times are challenging for many Nova Scotians and that every dollar matters. At the same time, this fee is necessary to conduct a financially responsible contest with reasonable confidence that the full cost recovery requirement will be met. Our goal is a trusted, transparent and accessible leadership election in which every member can have confidence. The delegate fee supports the democratic process that will help shape the future of our party.
Choosing the next Leader of the Nova Scotia Liberal Party—and our next candidate for Premier—is one of the most important decisions our members will make. This is an important opportunity for Liberal members to shape the future of our party and our province by selecting the person they believe is best suited to lead Nova Scotia. We thank our members for their understanding, their participation, and their commitment to this leadership process.