Ontario Election 2025: Voters Head to Polls Amid Low Turnout Expectations

Image credits: Eva Salinas/CBC

The Ontario election is underway, with voters heading to the polls on February 27 to cast their ballots. Ahead of the election, Global News has profiled all 124 ridings in the province, allowing voters to find their riding, learn more about local candidates, and see how their riding has voted in past elections. The lookup tool provides an easy way for voters to get informed before casting their ballots. With the election expected to have a low turnout, it is essential for voters to make their voices heard on key issues such as healthcare, college cuts, rent control, domestic violence, and protecting farmland.

Voters in the Hamilton and Niagara areas, along with the rest of Ontario, are heading to the polls, with several local races appearing close. The PC, Liberal, and NDP leaders have all been in the area, suggesting they think it's competitive. Polling stations will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and voters can find their polling station and required ID on the Elections Ontario website. With about 44 per cent of eligible voters coming out for the 2022 election, a historic low, it is crucial for voters to participate in this election. Advance poll results show about six per cent of voters voted early this year, down from almost 10 per cent in 2022.

Experts warn that low voter turnout may indicate a declining interest in the political process. The rare winter election, following blizzards that paralyzed much of the province, and the dominance of U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff threats in media coverage, may have contributed to the expected low turnout. However, some researchers believe that online voting has the potential to boost turnout, especially among voters in remote areas and those with mobility issues. The use of online voting in some municipalities in Ontario and other parts of Canada may encourage certain voters to participate who may not have been able to otherwise. The housing crisis and tariffs are also significant concerns for voters in this election.

Political scientists are divided on whether low voter turnout indicates an ailing democracy or merely a lack of public interest in a particular election. Some argue that lower numbers of voters signal that many are satisfied with the status quo, while others believe that it is a problem because fewer voices are being heard. Representative democracy cannot be representative unless all voices are heard. With the election expected to have a significant impact on the province, it is essential for voters to participate and make their voices heard. The outcome of the election will depend on the turnout and the issues that matter most to voters, such as the economy, education, and healthcare.

In conclusion, the Ontario election is a critical event that will shape the future of the province. With low turnout expected, it is essential for voters to participate and make their voices heard on key issues. The use of online voting and other measures to increase turnout may help to boost participation, especially among voters in remote areas and those with mobility issues. As the polls close, CBC News will provide the results from all 124 ridings, and voters can stay informed about the outcome of the election. The election is an opportunity for voters to hold their leaders accountable and shape the future of the province, and it is crucial that they participate and make their voices heard.