Ontario's political scene is heating up as the leaders of the major parties make their final pushes just days before the provincial election set for February 27, 2025. With every party eager to maximize their voter turnout, campaign activity has increased significantly across key areas.
Progressive Conservative (PC) Leader Doug Ford kicked off the day in Oldcastle, where he boldly declared his ambition to remain Ontario's premier. "I just want to win — I don’t look at the numbers, I just want to win a majority, a large majority," Ford stated confidently. His campaign schedule included several stops, targeting key battlegrounds such as Hamilton, St. Catharines, and Mississauga, where he aims to galvanize voter support.
While Ford focused on his campaign strategy, Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie was busy making her own final pitches to voters, sticking closer to the Greater Toronto area. "We have the wind in our sails, I am feeling so optimistic about tomorrow," she proclaimed during her campaign stops, particularly urging support for her bid for the Mississauga East-Cooksville riding.
Meanwhile, NDP Leader Marit Stiles also had packed final-day itineraries. Starting her campaign day in Toronto and moving through Niagara Falls and Hamilton, she emphasized her party's strength. “We already have a lot of seats in every region, in every corner of the province,” Stiles asserted as she brushed off suggestions about potential backlash from Liberal attempts to attract NDP voters.
Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner concluded his campaign efforts back home, highlighting his recent successes and asking voters for continued support. He concentrated his efforts on Kitchener Centre, where his party had won seats only recently.
Polling data suggests Ford's Conservatives hold significant momentum heading to the polls, with recent numbers from Pallas Data showing they received 46.3% of support from decided and leaning voters. This places them well above the Liberals, who are at 29.1%, and the NDP at 17.3%. These figures, derived from research conducted via telephone interviews, represent Ontario's diverse electorate.
Notably, there seems to be considerable discontent with Ontario's direction. A substantial 55.9% of poll respondents expressed dissatisfaction, which could shape the election dynamics as voters reflect on their choices. Despite Ford's strong positioning, some voters signify concern over the government's management, lending potential for shifts as they head to the polls.
Looking closely at issues like healthcare reform, Crombie highlighted her commitment to ensuring every Ontarian has access to healthcare—a point she has strategically placed at the center of her campaign. "If you want change and you want a family doctor, we have to change the government," Crombie insisted at her campaign event.
Ford, conversely, has positioned himself uniquely among party leaders, wanting to fight against outside pressures, especially from U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff threats. He stated, “No one agrees with President Trump declaring an economic war against his closest ally, his closest friend,” showcasing his intent to be seen as the resolute defender of Ontario's economic interests.
Stiles countered Crombie's outreach to NDP supporters, claiming the Liberals felt entitled to votes and asserting the NDP's exclusive potential to bring about the changes Ontarians desire. "The Liberals are telling you they are entitled to your vote," she articulated, pushing for the recognition of the NDP's platform as the pathway forward.
The stage is now set for what promises to be a tense election day across Ontario. Historically, elections with higher participation rates can signal significant changes. Polling places will open at 9 am and close at 9 pm Eastern time on the day of the election, giving voters ample opportunity to express their preferences without the elements of last-minute campaigning overwhelming them.
One way or another, the aftermath of the voting could lead Doug Ford to secure his third consecutive term, or signal pivotal shifts from both the Liberals and NDP. Ontario's political future depends on the choices its citizens make on February 27. The anticipation is palpable, as voters weigh their options carefully, shaping the future of the province for years to come.