Ontario Premier Doug Ford has announced that an early provincial election will be called on Wednesday, February 29, setting the stage for Ontarians to cast their votes. Ford revealed his plan during a press conference in Brampton, citing U.S. President Donald Trump’s impending 25 percent tariffs on Canadian goods as the driving force behind the decision.
“I will be meeting with the lieutenant governor on Tuesday to officially call the election,” Ford stated, emphasizing the need for a renewed mandate to combat Trump’s tariff measures. These tariffs, expected to be implemented as early as February 1, have raised concerns about their impact on Ontario’s families, businesses, and communities.
Although the province’s next fixed election date was set for June 2026, Ford defended the timing of this early election. “We need a strong mandate from Ontarians to fight these tariffs and provide certainty for our economy,” he said, adding that his government is prepared to invest “tens of billions of dollars” to safeguard livelihoods, similar to measures taken during the pandemic.
Rumors of an early election had been circulating for months, and senior government sources recently confirmed the election date would be February 27. Ford also pointed to a perceived lack of federal leadership as a contributing factor to his decision. “At the federal level, we don’t know who will be the next prime minister. Right now, we need strong leadership in this province, and we will deliver it,” Ford remarked.
Criticism from opposition leaders has been swift. Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner accused Ford of prioritizing political gain over stability, while NDP Leader Marit Stiles questioned the timing, calling it an “opportunity for Trump to further destabilize Ontario.” Despite the backlash, Ford assured voters of his commitment, pledging to work “20 hours a day” during the campaign and maintain daily engagement with his ministers.
Ford also plans to visit Washington next month with other premiers to advocate for Ontario’s interests with U.S. lawmakers. As Ontario braces for a snap election, debates over leadership and stability will undoubtedly shape the province’s political landscape in the coming weeks.