The day Donald Trump secured victory in the United States presidential election marked a high point for Doug Ford. Ford, the conservative leader of Canada’s most populated province—which also hosts its largest economy—briefly spoke to supporters and the media, inadvertently caught on a live microphone. It revealed his happiness at Trump’s win but changed when Trump imposed tariffs on Canada. “The guy pulled out the knife and just yanked it into us,” said Ford emotionally. “We’re supposed to be his closest allies, his closest friend. It’s terrible.”
Ford’s opportunistic nature was evident when he swiftly announced a snap election, framing the need for the “biggest mandate in Ontario history” to combat economic threats. Critics accused Ford of exacerbating chaos rather than addressing it. Despite his struggles with the province’s failing healthcare system, underfunded schools, and allegations of political corruption favoring land developers, Ford has positioned himself as a national figure, even traveling to Washington D.C. to lobby on Ontario’s behalf.
Ford’s unexpected rise to becoming a dominant political figure in Ontario and across Canada puts him in a unique position. No Ontario leader has won three consecutive majorities with each victory garnering more votes than the last. Such a victory would underscore Ford’s political acumen, a blend of empathy and ruthlessness.
Ford’s political career had long been overshadowed by his late brother Rob, whose tenure as Toronto’s mayor was marred by scandal and personal struggles. After Rob’s death in 2016, Doug Ford seized the opportunity and successfully won the position of Ontario’s premier with a sizeable legislative majority in 2018, appealing to disaffected suburban voters and business supporters with his direct and empathetic political style.
Ford’s reputation is partly built on his hands-on approach to governance, addressing the immediate concerns of constituents, from assisting citizens during snowstorms to offering his personal phone number for direct contact. While some acknowledge his genuine care for the people, others view his policies as petty and vindictive, especially towards Toronto. Disputes over bike lanes, public lands, and teacher strikes have exemplified these tensions.
Scrutiny has also detected underlying issues in Ford’s past. Moreover, the family’s business activities and Ford’s early involvement in dealing illicit substances have raised eyebrows. Despite these controversies, Ford’s tenure as premier has seen mixed reactions, with his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic initially praised. However, scandals, such as those involving lucrative land deals, have tainted his image, forcing Ford to apologize publicly.
In seeking re-election, Ford employs a non-traditional approach, avoiding deep political polarization and ideological entrenchment. His pragmatism and commitment to the “little guy” have garnered him support from across the political spectrum, including union endorsements.
As the possibility of a trade war looms, Ford’s leadership, characterized by both nationalistic rhetoric and pragmatic diplomacy, fills a leadership vacuum following Justin Trudeau’s resignation. Ford’s strategies include publicity stunts, such as wearing “CANADA IS NOT FOR SALE” hats, to solidify his “Captain Canada” image and resist potential retaliatory tariffs against the United States. Supporters see this as a demonstration of his leadership, while critics view it as a ploy to retain power amidst a skeptical electorate.
In conclusion, Doug Ford’s potential victory in Oregon’s next election indicates a complex political journey from a shadow of scandal to a prominent political figure. As Ontarians prepare to choose their next leader, Ford’s rise and the mixed reactions to his governance remain a focal point of the province’s political landscape.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/feb/26/doug-ford-canada-ontario-election-trump
