Ford more years: Ontario re-elects Premier Ford and his PC party for a third consecutive term

Premier Doug Ford has successfully secured his third consecutive majority government. This brings Premier Ford a third consecutive majority government in Ontario, a feat not seen since Premier Leslie Frost and the Progressive Conservative Party in 1959.

Ford's campaign strategy centered around protecting Ontario from looming tariff threats—a message that clearly resonated with voters across the province. The results speak for themselves: Ford secured 80 seats in the legislature, demonstrating that his early election gamble paid off.

The official opposition

The New Democratic Party (NDP) has successfully retained their role as Official Opposition, marking a significant achievement for leader Marit Stiles. It ensures that they maintain party status and positions them well to continue holding the government accountable. While there were some major wins and losses in key ridings for the NDP, retaining this position allows the party to focus on strengthening their platform and addressing voter concerns more effectively.

The Ontario Liberal Party (OLP) has remained in third place – a devastating loss for the party but making significant gains in comparison to the 2022 provincial election. The OLP picked up seats from the NDP and the PCs increasing their total seat count and regaining official party status.

However, in a dramatic turn of events, OLP Leader Bonnie Crombie lost in the riding of Mississauga East Cooksville by less than 2,000 votes. Crombie has announced that she will stay on as leader of the OLP. Despite regaining party status, these developments highlight a significant loss for the Liberals. As they navigate this transition period, rebuilding support and redefining their political identity will be crucial for regaining momentum in Ontario's political landscape.  

The numbers

The new legislative breakdown reveals significant shifts within Ontario’s political landscape. While some vote recounts and confirmations are ongoing, media outlets are reporting the PCs won 80 seats, up from 79. The NDP and the OLP have changes in their seat counts—the NDP is sitting at 27, down from 28 and the OLP is sitting at 14, up from 9. Meanwhile, The Green Party is projected to hold its two seats and 1 Independent Member will return to the Legislature.

Approximately 45 per cent of eligible Ontarians cast their ballots—a figure likely reflecting both by winter weather conditions, a short election cycle and an understanding among many that Ford was perceived as a clear front-runner.

The importance of voter turnout has been made clear for a handful of MPPs who won their ridings by alarmingly close margins. The riding of Mushkegowuk-James Bay was won by NDP incumbent Guy Bourgouin by just 4 votes, Mississauga-Erin Mills PC MPP Sheref Sabawy won by only 20 and Burlington PC MPP Natalie Pierre won by only 40 votes. Recounts in these ridings are ongoing.

What does this mean for Ontario?

Premier Doug Ford's recent election victory and the campaign slogan to "protect Ontario" signal a focus on safeguarding Ontario against external threats, such as Trump's tariffs. To fulfill this commitment, Ford has laid out six key priorities in his platform:

1. Fighting back against tariffs: The government aims to protect local industries from international trade challenges, ensuring that Ontario remains resilient in the face of economic pressures.
2. Building Ontario’s economy: By fostering an environment conducive to business growth and investment, Ford plans to strengthen the province's economic foundation.
3. Protecting workers: Ensuring job security and a safety net for Ontario’s workers in the face of a trade war with the United States.
4. Keeping Ontario competitive: Initiatives will be implemented to enhance the province’s competitiveness on both national and global stages.
5. Cleaning up our streets: Addressing public safety concerns is crucial for creating communities where residents feel secure and supported.
6. Delivering better care and services: Improving access to healthcare services remains a priority, aiming for more efficient delivery systems that meet Ontarians' needs effectively.

This agenda reflects a strategic shift away from previous focuses on infrastructure, red tape, affordability and housing towards investing in good jobs and bolstering Ontario’s economy. By attracting businesses and addressing pressing issues like public safety and healthcare access, Premier Ford seeks not only to protect but also propel Ontario into a prosperous future where its citizens can thrive economically while enjoying improved quality of life across various sectors.

Businesses in Ontario can anticipate a supportive environment under Premier Ford's leadership, with policies aimed at fostering economic growth, entrepreneurship and attracting investment. The government's focus on fighting tariffs and keeping Ontario competitive suggests that businesses will benefit from initiatives designed to enhance trade opportunities and reduce regulatory burdens.

What comes next?

As Ontario moves forward following the recent election, several key developments are on the horizon:

• Swearing-In of MPPs: Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs) are set to be sworn into office shortly, marking the official start of their new terms.
• Cabinet Appointments: Premier Doug Ford will soon announce his cabinet selections, outlining the team that will lead various ministries. Additionally, Parliamentary Assistants will be named to support these efforts.
• New Legislative Session: The Legislature is scheduled to resume in early March. This session will provide an opportunity for newly elected officials to begin their legislative duties and address pressing issues facing Ontario.
• Election of a New Speaker: With Ted Arnott’s retirement, one of the first orders of business for the new legislature will be electing a new Speaker who will preside over legislative proceedings and ensure order during debates.
• Speech from the Throne: Premier Ford is expected to lay out his government’s priorities for the coming term via his third Speech from the Throne, which will offer insight into policy directions and initiatives that Ontarians can anticipate.

These steps mark important milestones as Ontario's government transitions into its next phase under Premier Ford's leadership. NATIONAL Toronto’s team of Public Affairs professionals are here to help. Stay tuned for more information in the coming days and weeks.