TORONTO – Marit Stiles, the leader of the Ontario New Democratic Party (NDP), officially launched her election campaign on Saturday, garnering significant support from hundreds of party members, candidates, and fellow caucus members. Speaking emphatically to her audience, Stiles said, “We have the power to turn the page on seven years of Doug Ford, fight back against Donald Trump’s threats with real leadership, and win a government that's on your side.”
Stiles, who took over the leadership of the Ontario NDP in February 2023, emphasized her commitment to working families during her address. “We will fight to secure Ontario working families through a strong income protection program. We will support a strong, smart, tough tariff response,” she asserted, placing economic protection at the forefront of her campaign.
The Ontario NDP leader also made it clear how important the upcoming weeks would be for the party. “Your vote carries real power. You can vote to secure working families against the threat of tariffs. You can vote to make life more affordable,” she stated, rallying her supporters to mobilize for the June elections. Stiles criticized Ford's tenure as not deserving of another term, declaring, “Doug Ford does not deserve a third term. It’s time to choose a different Ontario.”
Born on September 20, 1969, Stiles has been advocating for workers’ rights for decades. Before entering politics, she was actively involved at various levels of government, beginning her career working as the executive assistant to New Democrat Gilles Bisson and later serving as communications director for the federal NDP. Her political activism surged when she was elected as the Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Davenport during the 2018 election, which catapulted the NDP to become the Official Opposition.
During her tenure, Stiles has worked as the party’s education critic and gained recognition for her advocacy on behalf of educational issues. Speaking about her leadership role, she remarked, “I am here to bring hope and promise to the people of Ontario, to remind them of the strength they have to fight back against economic uncertainty.”
Stiles' campaign emphasizes building alliances and engaging with federal leadership, as she pledged, “I will urge the Government of Canada to find allies in the democratic world, inside and outside of Canada, standing together.” This commitment aligns with her passionate stance against external economic pressures, particularly from the Trump administration, which she cites as threats to the stability and future of Ontario.
By presenting herself as the advocate for Ontario’s working families, Stiles is tapping directly into issues faced by many residents: high living costs, healthcare shortages, and the need for affordable housing. She stated emphatically, “You can vote to hire more doctors, build more homes, fix our schools.”
Stiles' background frames her campaign as one built on resilience and experience. Raised on a small farm outside St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, she understands the value of hard work and community connections. Married to Jordan Berger, with two adult daughters, she balances family life with her political ambitions. Her personal story, combined with her political acumen, positions her as not just a candidate but as someone who can resonate with everyday Ontarians.
Despite leading the party since earlier last year, Stiles faces significant challenges. Doug Ford, who has led Ontario for two consecutive terms, will be campaigning fiercely to retain his position. Stiles recognized the uphill battle she faces, but her rhetoric suggests determination. “(Ford) says he needs a mandate to fight for jobs in Ontario? I have a message for him: you are the premier of this province. It is your mandate every single day to fight for the jobs of working people,” she stated, reflecting her challenge to Ford's governance.
With the election still months away, the stakes are high. Stiles' supporters were energized during the rally, with many expressing optimism for the upcoming campaign. The Ontario NDP needs to rally its base and attract undecided voters to gain political ground against Ford's Progressive Conservative Party.
With the rally concluded, Stiles reaffirmed her commitment to her campaign goals: “It’s time for a premier who is on your side.” The atmosphere indicated her message has set the tone for what could prove to be one of Ontario's most anticipated political contests.