Doug Ford Wins Third Term as Ontario Premier, Vows to Fight US Tariffs

Image credits: Carlos Osorio/Reuters

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has won a third term in office, securing a majority government in the provincial legislature. Ford's Progressive Conservative party won over 80 seats out of 124, with the left-wing New Democratic Party coming in second and the Liberals in third place. The election was called by Ford to gain a stronger mandate to fight against US President Donald Trump's threatened tariffs on Canadian goods. Ford has been a vocal critic of Trump's trade policies, and has suggested that Canada could retaliate by cutting its energy supply to the US and pulling American products from provincial liquor stores.

Ford's campaign focused on the theme of "Protect Canada", reflecting his view that the country needs to stand firm against US tariff threats. He has appeared regularly on US television news networks, making the case for Canada's position in the trade dispute. The premier has also proposed the idea of a "Fortress Am-Can" energy alliance between the two countries, which he believes could help avoid tariffs altogether. Ford's victory speech was marked by a defiant tone, with the premier vowing to work with all levels of government and all political parties to defend Canada against Trump's tariffs. He also warned that the tariffs would have devastating consequences for Canada's economy, with around 75% of Canadian exports going to the US.

The election was marked by low voter turnout, with just over 44% of Ontarians casting ballots. This is essentially tied with the lowest ever turnout of 44% in 2022. Despite this, Ford's victory is seen as a significant mandate for his government to take a strong stance against US trade policies. The premier has been criticized by opposition parties for calling the snap election, which they argue was unnecessary and costly. However, Ford's gamble appears to have paid off, with his party winning a clear majority in the legislature. As Ford prepares to face off against Trump's tariffs, he will need to navigate the complex web of trade relationships between the two countries, while also addressing the concerns of Ontario's economy and industry leaders.

The implications of Ford's victory are likely to be far-reaching, with potential consequences for the Canadian economy and the country's relationship with the US. The premier's vow to defend Canada against Trump's tariffs has been welcomed by many Canadians, who see the tariffs as a threat to the country's sovereignty and economic well-being. However, others have criticized Ford's approach, arguing that it is too confrontational and may ultimately harm Canada's interests. As the trade dispute between the two countries continues to escalate, Ford's government will need to carefully consider its next steps, taking into account the potential risks and benefits of different courses of action.

In the coming weeks and months, Ford's government will need to develop a comprehensive strategy for responding to Trump's tariffs, including potential retaliatory measures and diplomatic efforts to resolve the dispute. The premier will also need to work closely with other Canadian leaders, including the federal government and other provincial premiers, to present a united front against the US. With the fate of Canada's economy and trade relationships hanging in the balance, Ford's leadership and diplomatic skills will be put to the test as he navigates the complex and challenging world of international trade negotiations.