Ontario Premier Doug Ford has announced a snap election for February 27th, citing the threat of 25 percent tariffs from U.S. President Donald Trump as a key factor. Ford, who already holds a majority in the provincial legislature, seeks an even larger mandate to negotiate with Trump and protect Ontario's economy. The move has been met with criticism from opposition parties who argue that it is unnecessary and politically motivated.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford is planning to call a snap election on Wednesday, aiming to secure an even larger majority for his Progressive Conservative government. He cites the looming threat of 25 percent tariffs from U.S. President Donald Trump as the primary reason for this early election, scheduled for February 27th, over a year before the fixed election date of June 2026.
Ford, who already commands a substantial majority with 79 out of 124 seats, insists that 'the largest mandate in Ontario's history' is necessary to effectively counter Trump's tariffs. He argues that a strong mandate will lend him more respect and bargaining power in negotiations with the U.S. president, unlike the perceived vulnerability of a smaller majority. Ford made this announcement at a campaign-style press conference in Brampton, Ontario, flanked by his Progressive Conservative caucus members and Mayor Patrick Brown, a former political rival turned staunch supporter. The event also served to announce plans for a tunnel project in Brampton as part of a Light Rail Transit (LRT) initiative.The timing of the election, especially in light of the potential Trump tariffs, raises questions about Ford's motives. Opposition parties, including the Ontario Liberals led by former Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie and the NDP led by Marit Stiles, have criticized the move, arguing that it is unnecessary and driven by political expediency rather than genuine concern for the province. They contend that they would support stimulus spending and that Ford already has a mandate to protect Ontario's interests. Ford, however, insists that he is the best person to handle the situation with Trump, dismissing his rivals' abilities to negotiate effectively. He has publicly stated his desire for a meeting with Trump, but one has yet to materialize.The snap election comes amidst an RCMP investigation into the Ford government's decision to open parts of the protected Greenbelt for housing development, a controversial policy that has since been reversed. The investigation is focused on the potential for financial gain by certain developers, estimated to be over $8 billion according to the auditor general. Ford maintains his innocence and asserts that no criminal activity took place.
Ontario Election Doug Ford Donald Trump Tariffs Snap Election Progressive Conservatives Opposition Parties
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford Highlights Energy Partnership Amid Trump's ThreatsOntario Premier Doug Ford is emphasizing Ontario's energy sector's strength to create jobs and revenue on both sides of the border in response to incoming U.S. president Donald Trump's threat to acquire Canada.
Read more »
Ontario Premier Ford Prepares for Trump Tariffs, Proposes Energy PlanOntario Premier Doug Ford is planning retaliatory measures if U.S. president-elect Donald Trump imposes tariffs on Canadian goods. Ford suggests a split in U.S. opinion on the issue, with Trump advocating for tariffs while other officials oppose them. He also proposes an energy plan to supply both nations and plans to meet with U.S. officials in February.
Read more »
Ontario Premier Ford Unveils 'Fortress Am-Can' Energy Plan Amid US Trade TensionsOntario Premier Doug Ford announced an ambitious plan to strengthen the energy supply between Canada and the United States, dubbed 'Fortress Am-Can', during a press conference. The initiative aims to leverage Ontario's diverse energy resources, including nuclear, hydroelectric, and renewable sources, to create jobs and economic growth on both sides of the border. This comes amidst heightened trade tensions with the incoming US President Donald Trump's threats of tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods.
Read more »
Ontario Premier Doug Ford Uninjured After Highway 401 CollisionOntario Premier Doug Ford was unharmed after an OPP vehicle he was travelling in was involved in a collision on Highway 401. The collision occurred as Ford was leaving a press conference at the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station. Ford said the vehicle he was in was 'sideswiped' and the other driver ended up on the other side of the highway.
Read more »
Ontario Premier Doug Ford Uninjured in Highway 401 CollisionOntario Premier Doug Ford was involved in a car accident on Highway 401 in Pickering, but emerged unharmed.
Read more »
Ontario Premier Doug Ford safe after vehicle collision: officeOntario Premier Doug Ford speaks to the media during the fall meetings of Canada's premiers hosted by Ontario in Toronto on Dec. 16, 2024.
Read more »