Erin O'Toole wins Conservative leadership race

Erin O'Toole begins a new political life today as the leader of the federal Conservative party.

O'Toole was declared the winner of the leadership race early this morning after technical problems delayed the vote count by hours.

His victory over rival Peter MacKay will be a blow to some progressives, who had hoped by choosing the former longtime cabinet minister the party could finally move past some of the social conservative issues that weighed it down in the last election.

The hours-long delay was a less-than-auspicious beginning for the new leader, who now is racing to get a team in place before Parliament returns next month.

O'Toole will have to make swift choices on who will be in his inner circle, including campaign director, new party staffers, and aides on Parliament Hill.

Finding a place for Leslyn Lewis will also be key, as her climb from political newcomer to an impressive finish cements the power of social conservatives in the party.