Ontario’s Progressive Conservatives (PCs) have secured a historic third consecutive majority government, according to projections by CBC News, marking a significant milestone in the province’s political landscape. Premier Doug Ford has become the first party leader in Ontario since 1959 to achieve this feat.
The snappy election, called unexpectedly in January 2025, unfolded against the backdrop of looming U.S. tariffs, a central theme of Ford’s campaign. While final results from ridings across the province are still being tallied, the PCs’ victory is clear. Ford framed the election as a necessary step to secure a stronger mandate to address the economic challenges posed by U.S. trade policies, leveraging his national profile as a key figure in Canada’s response to the economic policies of U.S. President Donald Trump.
This winter election was the first of its kind in Ontario since 1981. Ford’s campaign strategy focused heavily on economic stability, often emphasizing his ability to steer the province through uncertain times. He frequently donned a “Canada is Not for Sale” hat and centered his messaging on protecting Ontario’s economy and jobs.
In a highly unusual move for a provincial campaign, Ford made a trip to Washington, D.C., during the four-week election period to advocate against tariffs.
The PCs also sought to broaden their appeal to traditionally working-class voters and tradespeople, using the economic uncertainty as a rallying point.
Opposition leaders criticized Ford for calling an early election, arguing that the tariff threat was a pretext for an unnecessary vote, given the PCs’ existing majority and more than a year remaining in their mandate.
Throughout the campaign, opposition parties tried to shift the focus to issues like the economy, healthcare, housing, and education, though with limited success. Ontario continues to face significant challenges in these areas, including a shortage of family doctors, record-high emergency room wait times.
Addressing his party loyalists at their Etobicoke centre Ford reiterated his strong stance to fight against Donald Trump’s Tariffs together with local governments and political parties.
“As we stand up to the Donald Trump tariffs, I will continue to do just that. I will work with every local government and every political party because fighting back against Donald Trump and standing up for Canada will require a united Team Ontario and a united Team Canada effort,” says the re-elected Ontario Premiere Ford.
In his victory speech Premier Ford stated that Canada is not ready to start a war with United States but if the need be then Canada is ready to win any fight thrown against them.
“Canada will not start a fight with the US, but we are ready to win one,” Dough said.
Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau congratulated Dough Ford after the PC’s victory.
“Congratulations, Doug Ford, on your re-election tonight. Ontario and Canada are at their best when we work together — to defend Canadian interests, protect our workers, and make life more affordable.
I’m wishing you and your team the best as you head back to work for the people of Ontario.”
Mayor of the City of Toronto took to social media to express his congratulatory message to the re-elected Premier.
“Congratulations to Doug Ford on his re-election as Premier of Ontario. Let’s continue working together to build a more caring, affordable and safer Toronto.
We will build more homes faster, feed more kids, get Toronto moving by investing in transit and tackling congestion, and protect businesses and workers from a senseless U.S. trade war.”
NDP leader Marit Stiles was declared as the Official Opposition, as projected by CTV News. In her speech Stiles says her party will hold the Ford government to account after maintaining their status as Official Opposition.
“The results are everything that we hoped for but the people of Ontario made their choice, they re-elected the government hoping that it will help protect them from Donald Trump and his tariffs, and they entrusted me and my team to do it different but also very important job. We have tasked again to serve the people of Ontario to serve as their official opposition. Our job will be to hold this government to account,” Marit said.
About the Author
