Blue Wave Continues: Ford Clinches Third Term as Ontario Premier
Premier Doug Ford and his Progressive Conservative Party have secured a third consecutive majority in Ontario’s snap election, reinforcing their leadership amid economic uncertainty.
With 80 seats projected as of early Friday morning—an improvement from the 79 held before the election—Ford’s victory cements his dominance in provincial politics. The NDP retained 27 seats, continuing as the Official Opposition, while the Liberals increased their count to 14, though Leader Bonnie Crombie lost her own seat in Mississauga East-Cooksville.
Ford Declares Victory, Vows to Defend Ontario
Addressing jubilant supporters at his victory rally in Etobicoke, Ford emphasized his commitment to safeguarding Ontario’s economic interests.
“Together, we have secured a historic third majority to protect Ontario,” Ford declared. “We can disagree on policy, but make no mistake—every leader in this race loves this province and our great country.”
The premier reiterated his pledge to work across political lines, highlighting the looming tariff threats from former U.S. President Donald Trump as a unifying concern.
“I will work with every level of government to stand up for Canada. Fighting Trump’s tariffs will require a full Team Ontario effort.”
He reaffirmed his stance against U.S. economic pressure, declaring, “Canada will never be the 51st state.”
A Campaign Dominated by U.S. Tariff Concerns
Ford called the snap winter election, Ontario’s first February vote in 140 years, to seek a stronger mandate in response to the threat of Trump-imposed tariffs that could cripple Ontario’s manufacturing and trade economy.
His campaign, centered around the slogan “Protect Ontario”, gained traction as Ford took two trips to Washington, D.C., lobbying U.S. officials. While opposition parties accused him of blurring the line between premier and candidate, Ford defended his actions as a necessary stand against economic instability.
Liberal and NDP Leaders React
Despite a disappointing result for the Liberals, Bonnie Crombie remained optimistic, celebrating the party’s return to official status at Queen’s Park.
“People counted us out. They said the Ontario Liberal Party was dead. Tonight, we proved them wrong,” she told supporters.
Meanwhile, NDP Leader Marit Stiles acknowledged the difficulty of overcoming Ford’s lead but vowed to hold his government accountable.
“Ontarians chose Ford to shield them from Trump’s tariffs, but our job is to ensure fairness, protect public services, and hold him to his promises.”
With a strong mandate, Ford’s $40 billion spending plan is set to move forward, including:
- $1.8 billion to connect all Ontarians to primary healthcare within four years.
- $2 billion for municipal infrastructure to support housing growth.
- Billions for transit expansion, including a tunnel under Highway 401 and new GO Train lines.
- The removal of Highway 407 tolls for commuters.
As Ontario faces economic uncertainty, Ford’s third term promises both continuity and challenges, with opposition leaders determined to keep his government in check.