Ontario Snap Election Kicks Off with Tariffs, Health Care, and Housing in Focus

Premier Doug Ford seeks a renewed mandate to address U.S. tariff threats, while opposition leaders challenge his record on health care and housing.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has called a snap election, 16 months ahead of schedule, citing the need for a mandate to address potential U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods.
Ford pledges to protect Ontario’s economy against tariffs threatened by President Donald Trump but has yet to provide specific plans for his proposed economic response.
Health care is a major campaign issue, with opposition parties criticizing the government for failing to address the province’s family doctor shortage, which affects 2.5 million residents.
Housing affordability and congestion remain key concerns, with Ford defending his government’s housing policies despite falling short of annual construction targets.
Opposition leaders accuse Ford of political opportunism and mismanagement, highlighting controversies like the Greenbelt development reversal and costly alcohol sales expansion.