Ontario Leaders Clash Over Housing, Affordability, and Northern Issues in First Election Debate

Doug Ford defends his record as opposition leaders criticize housing failures, affordability crisis, and snap election timing.

The first Ontario election debate, held in North Bay, focused on northern issues such as housing, healthcare, and infrastructure, with leaders frequently clashing on stage.
Progressive Conservative Leader Doug Ford faced criticism from opposition leaders for failing to meet housing targets, as housing starts declined 16% in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Doug Ford defended his decision to call a snap election and emphasized economic concerns, including potential tariff threats from U.S. President Donald Trump, while opponents questioned the timing during a crisis.
NDP Leader Marit Stiles and Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie highlighted the affordability crisis, accusing Ford of neglecting northern communities and worsening homelessness and addiction issues.
The debate featured sharp exchanges, including Ford accusing rivals of supporting higher taxes, while opposition leaders questioned the credibility of his promises and pointed to controversies like the Greenbelt development scandal.