The New Brunswick Liberal Association held a leadership election in 1985 to replace former leader Doug Young, the elected leader would face four-term premier Richard Hatfield in an election expected in 1986. Frank McKenna defeated legislative veteran Ray Frenette, who had served as the party's interim leader until early 1985.^[1]

• Ray Frenette, MLA since 1974 and interim leader from 1982 to 1985.
• Frank McKenna, MLA since 1982.