Canada’s Doug Ford wins Ontario election focused on Trump’s tariffs
Al Jazeera6 days ago
Canada: Ford Wins Third Term Amid US Tariff Tensions
Above:Â Doug Ford, Ontario's premier, speaks at a rally during Ontario's provincial election in Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada, on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025. Â Image copyright:Â Galit Rodan/Contributor/Bloomberg via Getty Images
The Facts
Doug Ford and his Progressive Conservative Party secured a third consecutive majority government in Ontario's snap election, with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation projecting victory within 10 minutes of polls closing.
The election was called more than a year early, with Ford seeking a stronger mandate to combat US President Donald Trump's threatened 25% tariffs on Canadian exports, which could potentially cost Ontario 500K jobs.
Ford's Progressive Conservatives captured 81 seats in the 124-member legislature, improving on their previous 79 seats, while the NDP secured 26 seats as the official opposition and the Liberals gained 14 seats.
The Spin
Right narrative
The strong mandate demonstrates clear public trust in Ford's leadership during a critical time of economic uncertainty, proving that his tough stance against US tariffs and commitment to protecting Ontario's economy resonates with voters. Ford's pragmatic approach to governance and ability to work across party lines has earned him unprecedented electoral success.
Left narrative
The snap election was an opportunistic move that capitalized on the US tariff crisis while overshadowing crucial domestic issues like healthcare, education, and issues in the development sector. Underneath the pressure of tariffs and threats to Canadian sovereignty, these pressing social issues are paramount — Ford must bring these to the forefront in good faith.