The Ontario Legislature has now been dissolved.
Premier Doug Ford met Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Edith Dumont, Tuesday afternoon who accepted the Premier’s advice to dissolve Parliament at 4 p.m. Eastern.
This triggers a provincial election set for February 27th.
Premier Doug Ford says he stands by his record to improve Ontario’s economy and help create jobs.
“We brought certainty to companies around the world that if you come to Ontario when you invest, we’re going to cut the red tape and the regulations and create that environment and conditions for companies to come here and thrive and prosper and grow,” says Ford. “And when companies thrive, prosper and grow, so do the people.”
Ford insists this election is about giving his government a stronger mandate to protect Ontario from new U.S. trade tariffs.
He says his party has a strategy that includes helping businesses that will be impacted and will reveal its details through the campaign.
“But in saying that, we need that strong, strong mandate for the people of Ontario. They understand who will lead this province over the next four years, who has a voice for the people and protects companies and protect livelihoods. And there’s only one choice. That’s the PC government,” says Ford.
Ford’s opponents are also ready to roll out their platforms to voters.
NDP leader Marit Stiles says the election gives voters the power to choose a better future for the province.
“While the people of Ontario are anxious about the grave threat of tariffs, Doug Ford is pursuing his own political gain,” says Stiles in a release.
“People need a Premier who will fight like hell for every single job that’s at risk, not run to the polls over a year early.”
Liberal leader Bonnie Crombie is campaigning on the slogan More for You.
She also slams Ford for the early election call.
“He’s wasting $175 million on an early election instead of using it to fix our broken healthcare system and make your life more affordable,” states Crombie.
“As Premier, I’ll deliver More For You by guaranteeing you’ll have a family doctor, cutting taxes on your paycheque and home heating, and building homes you can afford.”
Both parties are still naming candidates but intend to have one in every riding of the province.
