Today : Apr 29, 2025
Politics
29 April 2025

Conservatives Sweep Simcoe County In 2025 Election

Despite a Liberal government, all five ridings in Simcoe County will be represented by Conservative MPs.

As Canadians cast their ballots in the 2025 federal election, the results are in for the Barrie, Simcoe County, and Muskoka regions, showcasing a strong Conservative presence across all five ridings. While the Liberal Party is set to form the next federal government, it was the Conservatives who secured victories in each local riding, emphasizing a distinct regional preference.

John Brassard, the incumbent MP for Barrie South–Innisfil, has successfully retained his seat, campaigning on a platform focused on economic recovery, energy independence, public safety, and affordability. Brassard, a familiar face in the riding, centered his campaign around a "Canada-first" agenda, addressing concerns over housing affordability, rising crime rates, and the economic future under the Liberal government. He expressed support for Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's initiatives aimed at expanding addiction treatment, implementing tougher crime measures, and safeguarding social programs such as the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).

Doug Shipley, re-elected in Barrie–Springwater–Oro-Medonte, highlighted the urgent need for change amid growing concerns over affordability, housing, and crime. A hands-on representative known for his strong local service, Shipley advocated for Conservative plans focusing on major tax cuts, debt reduction, and economic reform. Drawing on his experience from Barrie City Council, he emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility and restoring hope for young Canadians striving for homeownership.

In Simcoe North, Adam Chambers has successfully retained his seat, bringing his legal, financial, and entrepreneurial experience back to Parliament. Chambers, a vocal advocate for financial transparency and regulatory reform, has introduced legislation aimed at cracking down on tax evasion and misleading identity practices. His commitment extends beyond local issues, as he actively participates in global human rights advocacy through his co-leadership of the Parliamentary Friends of a Democratic Burma.

Terry Dowdall, re-elected in Simcoe–Grey, continues his work as a strong voice for veterans, seniors, and small business owners. Dowdall has championed mental health and rare disease treatment access, pushing for improved healthcare support while maintaining a firm stance on fiscal responsibility. His deep background in municipal leadership and connections to Canadian Forces Base Borden enable him to bring grassroots priorities to the national stage.

Scot Davidson secured re-election in New Tecumseth–Gwillimbury, continuing his advocacy for small businesses, rural communities, and environmental stewardship. A former entrepreneur, Davidson has been a vocal proponent of reducing regulatory burdens and supporting Canada’s agricultural sector. His successful passage of Bill C-280 in 2024, which established financial protections for fresh produce growers, underscores his commitment to local economies. Davidson remains dedicated to preserving the health of the Lake Simcoe watershed and enhancing the quality of life for his constituents.

Scott Aitchison was re-elected in Parry Sound–Muskoka, reaffirming his role as a strong advocate for rural communities. Aitchison, with a background in municipal politics and a tenure as Huntsville's mayor, brings extensive experience to Parliament. He has been vocal about the need for affordable housing and has criticized federal inaction in rural areas. His commitment to inclusive and compassionate leadership resonates with his constituents, who appreciate his grassroots approach.

As the election unfolded, early results indicated a tight race in Simcoe North between Adam Chambers and Liberal candidate Ryan Rocca. With 225 of 227 polls reporting, Chambers was projected to be re-elected, having garnered 31,351 of 64,471 votes (48.63%), while Rocca trailed with 28,650 votes (44.44%). NDP candidate Melissa Lloyd secured 2,439 votes (3.78%). This election marks Chambers' second term as MP for Simcoe North, a position he has held since 2021.

Chambers' campaign was bolstered by the absence of a credible NDP candidate, which historically has performed well in the riding. The final tally from the polls reflected a significant turnout, with 23,291 voters casting their ballots at advance polls.

Despite the Conservatives’ strong showing in local ridings, the Liberals are set to govern at the federal level, having secured 158 races with a leading vote count of 8,351,310, translating to 43.53% of the popular vote. The Conservatives, while winning all five Simcoe County ridings, managed to claim 142 races with 7,940,412 votes, accounting for 41.39% of the popular vote.

The Bloc Québécois and the New Democrats also made their mark in the election, with 22 and five races called in their favor, respectively. The Bloc garnered 1,223,229 votes (6.38%), while the NDP received 1,204,092 votes (6.28%). The Greens claimed one race with 238,771 votes (1.24%).

As the dust settles on the 2025 federal election, it is clear that while the national landscape favors the Liberals, the local electorate in Simcoe County has firmly aligned with Conservative values, reflecting distinct priorities and concerns that will shape the region's representation in Parliament.