As the echoes of election night fade, which saw Doug Ford and his Progressive Conservatives (PCs) secure a renewed majority mandate, Ontario’s focus swiftly shifts to Queen’s Park as the Premier prepares to shape his government’s priorities and put his platform to Protect Ontario into action.
Premier Ford’s renewed mandate and priorities
Despite not reaching the ambitious target of 90+ seats, Premier Ford asserts that his government has emerged stronger. His confidence stems from the PC’s electoral gains, including a larger share of the popular vote and securing 80 seats in the Ontario Legislature—an increase of one seat from their previous count. Early data from Elections Ontario suggests voter turnout was approximately 45 percent, one percent higher than in 2022.
This sets the stage for an agenda that promises continuity of past commitments while addressing new challenges, particularly the evolving trade tensions with the U.S.
Premier Ford's government committed in its platform to spend $40 billion to grow and protect Ontario. The government is poised to tackle several critical issues:
- Trade relations and tariffs: With President Trump having implemented tariffs on March 4, 2025, Premier Ford has retaliated with robust countermeasures—including the removal of American beer and alcohol from LCBO shelves, banning U.S.-based companies from participating in Ontario procurement opportunities and ripping up the province’s Starlink contract. The Premier has also hinted at energy cutoffs for American homes currently powered by Ontario electricity.
- Supporting jobs: The Ford government will dedicate $2.5 billion to skilled trades to ensure job security and a safety net for Ontario workers.
- Infrastructure development: Ambitious projects like an uncosted Highway 401 tunnel aim to alleviate gridlock and enhance mobility across Ontario.
- Critical minerals strategy: Premier Ford has committed to taking a "COVID mode" approach to expediting critical minerals projects.
Timeline: the next 30, 60, and 90 days
The next few months are crucial as these priorities begin taking shape:
- Next 30 days: Premier Doug Ford is set to announce his cabinet appointments by mid-March, indicating he would maintain its historic size. Concurrently, a Speech from the Throne will be delivered, outlining key priorities that are heavily influenced by the PC election platform. This speech will serve as an official declaration of Ford's legislative agenda and policy focus areas for the coming years. Additionally, with the retirement of Speaker and MPP Ted Arnott, there will also be a vote in the legislature to elect a new Speaker.
- Next 60 days: We will see a brief period of transition as staff settle into their roles amidst a potential post-election cabinet shuffle of ministers since that’s likely to be followed by movement of political staff. During this time, we may see the Ford government revive previously stalled legislation that aligns with the government's priorities. Notably, Ford has committed to resurfacing the encampment-related bill as part of broader public safety efforts, reflecting Premier Ford's commitment to addressing pressing social issues outlined in his platform.
- Next 90 days: The budget will outline the government's financial priorities and strategies for economic growth. Following its introduction, ministries will begin implementing budgetary allocations and programs to align with these outlined priorities.
Opposition priorities
Both opposition parties have their strategies set with the Official Opposition, Ontario’s New Democratic Party (NDP), pledging to collaborate with government in the fight against U.S. tariffs.
Despite her loss in the riding of Mississauga East Cooksville, Liberal Party of Ontario’s leader Bonnie Crombie remains steadfast in her commitment to stay on. Additionally, the executive council of the Liberal Party of Ontario has indicated their unanimous support for Crombie to stay on as leader of the party. A mandatory leadership review by the party will take place.
What does this mean for your organization?
2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for Ontario in the face of geopolitical uncertainties and an impending need to address concerns over healthcare, affordability and housing, among other pressing issues. Ontarians have entrusted Premier Ford to once again step up to the challenge and like we saw during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, he’ll be relying on Canadian businesses and organizations to take on these challenges alongside his government. Now is an opportune time for business and organizations to position themselves to play their part in protecting and growing Ontario’s economy.
Navigating the complexities of a post-election government can be challenging. By being proactive, building relationships, and making strategic recommendations, you can ensure that your organization is a key player in shaping the future of Ontario. For more information on developing an effective government relations strategy in Ontario, contact NATIONAL Toronto’s team of Public Affairs experts.
