Ontario Election Focus Shifts After U.S. Tariff Threat Temporarily Delayed

Leaders debate provincial priorities as Doug Ford defends snap election and faces criticism over Trump ties.

The Ontario election, set for February 27, was called by Premier Doug Ford, citing a need for a fresh mandate to address U.S. tariff threats under President Donald Trump.
Trump's planned 25% tariffs on Canadian goods have been postponed for at least 30 days, shifting campaign discussions to health care, education, and other provincial issues.
NDP Leader Marit Stiles criticized Ford for prioritizing tariffs in the campaign and proposed increased education funding, school repairs, and a universal school food program.
Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie accused Ford of exploiting the tariff threat for political gain and emphasized the need to address public health care and economic stability.
Ford faced backlash after a hot mic incident revealed his past support for Trump, though he later expressed frustration with the U.S. president's trade policies.