Ontario

Saturday May 2, 2026

Doug Ford's recent controversies may signal a political shift as Ontario voters tire of his leadership after eight years.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday May 2, 2026

Is Doug Ford’s Political Resilience Finally Waning?

As Ontario Liberals eagerly anticipate the announcement of their new leader amidst a shift in leadership selection methods, concerns over the lingering shadow of voter apathy and the challenges identified in a post-mortem report on their 2022 election defeat to Premier Doug Ford's Progressive Conservatives cast uncertainty over the party's future trajectory.

November 28, 2023

Doug Ford has managed to maintain a robust grip on power in Ontario, largely due to strategic positioning at the political centre and benefiting from weak opposition leadership. The Liberals, still tainted by memories of Dalton McGuinty and Kathleen Wynne’s unpopular tenures, have struggled to regain footing. This, coupled with voter apathy leading to low turnouts, has played into the Progressive Conservatives’ hands.

News: Doug Ford’s ‘gravy plane’ and secrecy fight test his political durability

However, recent controversies, notably the “gravy plane” and FOI changes, might be shifting the landscape. These incidents have not only drawn negative attention but may also awaken voters to broader issues under Ford’s governance, such as healthcare, education, and social services. The symbolism of a $29 million private jet during economic struggles starkly contrasts with Ford’s populist image, and the FOI changes deepen the distrust, suggesting secrecy and self-interest.

Recent polling indicates a significant shift. For the first time since Ford became leader, the Liberals have edged ahead in popularity, even without a leader. This suggests a growing itch for change among voters, reflecting a common Canadian tendency to seek alternatives after about eight years of one government’s rule.

Opinion: The worst and best and worst of Doug Ford

June 9, 2022

Historically, Canadian voters tire of governments after extended periods, and Ford’s controversies may have accelerated this sentiment. The media’s sustained scrutiny highlights not just isolated missteps but a pattern of governance that may no longer align with public expectations.

Ford’s ability to pivot and respond to criticism has been noted as a strength, but repeated blunders and the perception of entitlement could diminish voter tolerance. As Ontario eyes the next election, the question remains: will voters demand change, or will Ford’s past resilience carry him through once more? The unfolding months will reveal whether this is a temporary dip or the beginning of a significant shift in Ontario’s political landscape.

Saturday April 18, 2026

Doug Ford's $28.9 million jet purchase sparks outrage over misaligned priorities amidst Ontario's pressing social challenges.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday April 18, 2026

Air Ford One: Soaring Above Ontario’s Needs

March 8, 2019

In a time when Ontario faces pressing issues in healthcare, education, and affordability, Premier Doug Ford’s decision to purchase a $28.9 million Bombardier Challenger 650 jet is a glaring misstep. This move signals a disconnect from the realities faced by everyday Ontarians and raises serious questions about government priorities.

The purchase of a private jet, dubbed “Air Ford One,” comes when Ontario’s hospitals are understaffed, education funding is strained, and over a million people rely on food banks. The $28.9 million price tag could have been directed towards frontline services that directly impact the lives of citizens. Instead, it has been allocated to a luxury aircraft for the premier’s travel, justified under the guise of security and flexibility.

News: Ontario buys used $28.9M private jet for Doug Ford: sources

April 30, 2019

Public outcry, as reflected in various comments, underscores the frustration with this decision. Many are questioning the logic behind such a costly investment when chartering or leasing options could have provided similar benefits without the hefty financial commitment. The lack of transparency in the procurement process only adds to the skepticism.

This decision is reminiscent of past controversies, such as former Premier Bill Davis’s ill-fated jet purchase in the 1980s, which was quickly reversed due to public and political pressure. Additionally, Ford has previously faced criticism for spending $50,000 on a customized van, raising concerns about his spending priorities.

To put this expenditure into perspective, the cost of the jet is comparable to the proposed new residence for Canada’s Prime Minister, as the historic 24 Sussex has been condemned. Despite the urgent need, numerous governments have delayed this decision due to spending optics—highlighting how significant such a financial commitment truly is.

News: Heritage Ottawa calls on feds to make a decision on future home of prime minister

Bonnie Crombie's resignation as Ontario Liberal leader highlights the party's struggle for identity and renewal amid centrist competition and internal dissent.

September 16, 2025

Ontarians deserve a government that prioritizes their immediate needs. With healthcare systems struggling, educational resources stretched thin, and affordability at an all-time low, investing in a private jet is a misallocation of taxpayer dollars. This decision not only fails to address urgent issues but also erodes public trust in leadership.

As the province navigates these challenges, it is imperative for the government to demonstrate fiscal responsibility and transparency. Ontarians expect investments that enhance their quality of life, not decisions that cater to political convenience or luxury. It’s time for Premier Ford to reconsider this purchase and realign with the needs of the people he serves.

Wednesday April 15, 2026

Ontario's education reforms focus on centralizing control and cutting costs, raising concerns about impacts on local schools and student equity.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday April 15, 2026

Ontario’s Education Overhaul: Who’s Really Winning?

Young Doug Ford: The Series

The Ontario government’s latest moves in education have a lot of people scratching their heads. Under Doug Ford, there’s been a big push to change how schools are run. But if you take a closer look, it seems like these changes are more about control and cutting costs than actually helping students.

News: Ontario school board trustees to lose many powers, TDSB trustees to be slashed, minister announces

Since 2018, it’s been obvious that education hasn’t been a top priority for this government. We’ve seen ongoing underfunding, and now, with these new reforms, it feels like they’re tightening the purse strings even more. The government talks about fixing governance issues, but the focus is really on centralizing power. They’re bringing in CEOs to manage school boards and cutting down the role of local trustees. It’s like turning schools into businesses, with decisions made far away from the communities they affect.

Doug Ford's ambitious Highway 401 tunnel proposal diverts attention and resources from Ontario's more urgent societal needs, sparking widespread criticism.

August 12, 2025

Articles in The Globe and Mail and The Toronto Star have covered these changes, highlighting how they could hurt the most vulnerable students. For example, the Toronto District School Board is losing extra staffing for high-needs schools. These are the kids who need the most help, and now they’re getting less support.

People are speaking up. Many think these reforms are driven by politics and ideology rather than what’s best for students. It feels like the government is more interested in saving money than investing in education. This top-down approach risks making the gap between students even bigger. Ontario used to be known for its fair and strong education system, but these changes could change that for the worse.

News: Ontario tables bill to change oversight of province’s education system 

November 2, 2022

Imagine if you had a local community garden, and suddenly, someone from far away started deciding what you could plant and how much water you could use. The personal touch and understanding of local needs would be lost. That’s what’s happening to our schools.

Ontario needs leadership that values education, listens to local voices, and makes decisions based on what students actually need. Until that happens, it’s hard not to be skeptical of what’s really going on with these reforms.

 

Thursday April 2, 2026

Doug Ford's trip to Texas to oppose tariffs appears more as political posturing than a practical trade mission, raising questions about its impact on Ontario.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday April 2, 2026

Also published in The Toronto Star.

Ford’s Texas Tango: A Trade Trip or Just a Show?

March 19, 2019

Doug Ford heading to Texas to talk trade feels a bit like trying to sell snow to Canadians. Texas, a stronghold of the “America First” crowd, isn’t exactly rolling out the red carpet for foreign investment pitches. Governor Greg Abbott has backed tariffs, making it hard to see how Ford’s message will resonate.

It seems more like a photo-op than a serious business trip. With the Ontario legislature barely in session, this timing looks suspiciously like avoiding local accountability. Ford’s critics argue he’s dodging real issues at home like healthcare and education.

News: Doug Ford takes anti-tariff message to Texas as opposition cries foul

Ford's leadership has made little progress in reducing interprovincial trade barriers, a crucial yet challenging task necessary to bolster domestic productivity amidst looming tariffs, highlighting a pattern of inaction on complex issues.

March 4, 2025

Instead of focusing on Ontario’s pressing problems, Ford’s out there trying to play a solo game on the international stage. It’s like trying to win a team sport all by yourself. His efforts might even muddle the waters for federal trade talks with the U.S.

The trip comes after a long break for the legislature, making taxpayers wonder if it’s worth their money. While Ford talks about “Fortress Am Can,” it’s hard to see what tangible benefits this trip will bring back to Ontario.

Opinion: Doug Ford has utterly wasted an extraordinary mandate

In the end, this Texas trip feels more like political theatre than a genuine effort to boost Ontario’s economy. With pressing issues at home, one has to wonder if Ford is really putting Ontarians first.

Friday March 28, 2026

Doug Ford's latest budget prioritizes political optics over essential services, leaving Ontario's real needs unmet.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday March 28, 2026

Populism Over Progress: Ford’s Budget Missteps

Doug Ford's FOI changes threaten transparency, risking Ontario's accountability to its citizens.

March 18, 2026

Doug Ford’s latest budget reveals a troubling disconnect between his government’s priorities and the pressing needs of Ontarians. While he attributes sluggish economic growth to Trump’s tariffs, this narrative only partially explains Ontario’s fiscal challenges. The real issue lies in Ford’s own policy decisions—populist tax cuts, extravagant projects, and a lack of focus on vital social services.

The 2026 budget projects a $13.8 billion deficit, delaying plans to balance the books until 2028-29. This fiscal imbalance is exacerbated by Ford’s penchant for tax giveaways and spending cuts in critical areas. His administration boasts about Ontario’s competitive economy, yet the numbers tell a different story: minimal economic growth and rising unemployment.

News: Ontario projects $13.8-billion budget deficit, delays balancing books

Libraries are facing safety challenges as funding cuts to harm reduction services push vulnerable individuals into public spaces.

March 14, 2026

Ford’s approach has been criticized for prioritizing flashy infrastructure projects like the Highway 401 tunnel and an island jetport over essential services. These vanity projects fail to address core issues such as healthcare, education, and housing affordability. Underfunding in these areas has tangible consequences—overburdened hospitals, struggling schools, and a lack of support for those facing homelessness and addiction.

Reader comments echo these concerns, questioning Ford’s vision and fiscal priorities. Many Ontarians feel sidelined by a government that is more concerned with political maneuvering than with genuine economic stewardship. The reduction in healthcare and education spending is particularly alarming, as these sectors are crucial for long-term prosperity.

Opinion: Protected from voters’ wrath, Doug Ford’s latest budget defies fiscal reality

Doug Ford's strong stance against Trump's tariffs distracts from controversial local projects like a costly 401 tunnel and bike lane removals.

August 8, 2025

Doug Ford’s latest budget highlights a government out of touch with its constituents. By focusing on short-term populist measures and ignoring foundational social issues, Ford risks leaving Ontario ill-prepared for future challenges. It is time for leadership that genuinely addresses the needs of all Ontarians, putting people before politics