Premier Doug Ford is set to call a snap provincial election next Wednesday, sending Ontario voters to the polls on February 27, more than a year ahead of the scheduled June 2026 election date. A senior government source confirmed the decision to CTV News, citing the need for a stronger public mandate as the province braces for potential economic fallout from U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian goods.
Speaking this week, Ford emphasized the urgency of securing public support to tackle the looming trade crisis, which he claims could cost Ontario 500,000 jobs. “We need a mandate to protect people’s jobs, businesses, and communities,” Ford said, hinting that the government may need to spend billions in stimulus funds to offset the impact of the tariffs.
In the invitation, Ford cited the trade war threat as the primary reason for the snap election, urging members to unite and secure a strong voter mandate.
Opposition leaders swiftly criticized Ford’s decision, accusing him of political opportunism during a period of economic uncertainty.
NDP Leader Marit Stiles labeled the snap election as a distraction from the pressing need for stability, suggesting that Ford was banking on voter disengagement in the winter election. “Calling an election now doesn’t create stability—it adds chaos when we need unity,” she said.
Despite her criticism, Stiles affirmed her party’s readiness for the campaign, expressing optimism despite polls placing the NDP third among voters.
Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie also condemned the move, calling it “reckless and self-serving.” She pointed out that other provinces facing similar tariff threats have not resorted to elections. “Ford already has a majority and the ability to pass any legislation he wants. This election is unnecessary and irresponsible,” Crombie said.
Crombie, who hinted at running in a Mississauga riding, reiterated that the focus should remain on protecting jobs and businesses rather than plunging Ontario into an election.
Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner echoed these sentiments, calling the timing “infuriating” and accusing Ford of prioritizing political interests over Ontarians. Schreiner stressed the need for bipartisan efforts to combat the potential economic fallout from the tariffs, offering his party’s cooperation to address the crisis.
Recent polls suggest Ford’s Progressive Conservatives are entering the election with a significant advantage. A Leger poll conducted from January 17 to 19 shows the PCs leading with 46% support among decided and leaning voters, compared to 22% for the Liberals and 19% for the NDP.
Another poll by Liaison Strategies, conducted earlier in the week, indicated a smaller nine-point lead for the PCs. Both surveys underscore the cost of living as the most pressing issue for voters.
The PCs recently issued $200 rebate cheques to taxpayers to ease financial burdens, a move opposition parties have derided as a pre-election gimmick.
As Ontarians prepare to head to the polls on February 27, the election will test Ford’s leadership amidst economic uncertainty and growing political polarization. While the Progressive Conservatives hold a clear lead, opposition parties are rallying to challenge the premier’s decision and present their visions for the province’s future