Ontario voters headed to the polls on February 27, 2025, facing unique challenges as the province held its first winter election since 1981. The election was marked by political tensions, heated debates, and heavy snowfall creating obstacles for many citizens hoping to exercise their right to vote.
Polling stations opened at 9:00 AM across Ontario, and there were over 7,000 locations available to the electorate, with voters encouraged to come out for the important day. "Every vote matters and counts," said Adriana Galloro, who remarked on her father's determination to vote under difficult circumstances from the ICU, underscoring the significance of participation even amid personal health challenges.
Among the prominent candidates were Progressive Conservative (PC) leader Doug Ford and Liberal leader Bonnie Crombie, both of whom had heavy expectations for the election results. Doug Ford, who sought his third consecutive majority, had justified calling the snap election, citing threats from U.S. President Donald Trump over tariffs. “I’m asking voters for a bigger mandate,” Ford stated as he made the rounds, hoping to solidify his party's position amid heightened political discourse.
Meanwhile, NDP leader Marit Stiles campaigned vigorously to present her solutions for key issues, emphasizing affordability, one of the main concerns of citizens. She stated, "We need to invest more in healthcare and education to uplift our communities." Stiles faced opposition from within her party following controversial comments made by incumbent NDP MPP Wayne Gates, leading to community backlash. Gates' remarks about Gaza were labeled as inflammatory by leaders from both the local Muslim and Jewish communities, prompting public calls for him to apologize.
“For a very long time, Mr. Gates has been making these types of statements,” said Ziad Hajifazul, the local Muslim leader who joined other community leaders to endorse Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg, the PC candidate running against Gates. “Our community is about peace and unity, not about inciting conflict,” he asserted, reflecting widespread disapproval of divisive remarks during the campaign.
The Liberal Party, under Bonnie Crombie, has remained competitive, with recent polls showing her gaining on Stiles' NDP. Latest survey data indicated Ford's PCs leading at 46% support, with Crombie's Liberals at 29% and Stiles' NDP trailing at 16%. Speculation around whether the Liberals can outperform the NDP to clinch second place has persisted, as insights from past elections suggest Crombie has made strides but there are significant hurdles to overcome.
“We’ve got to do more than just complain about politics,” Crombie remarked, encouraging Ontario residents to make their voices heard. Her active campaigning has revolved around reinforcing healthcare improvements and showcasing her commitment to building stronger community ties.
The frosty weather on election day has not deterred voters, but rather has highlighted accessibility issues for those with disabilities and the elderly. Advocates raised concerns about the timing of the election coinciding with severe winter conditions, arguing it deprived some individuals of their right to vote. David Lepofsky, chair of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance, emphasized the need for greater focus on accessibility initiatives.
Noteworthy mentions included first-time voters and efforts to engage young people, with Micaela Morey and Misha Sharivker, both youths, expressing their desire for change. “We had bad voter turnout for young people last time,” Morey stated, urging their peers not to feel discouraged and to participate actively. “It’s important for the younger generation to come out and vote,” added Sharivker.
Despite weather warnings issued by Environment Canada for snow and rain across Toronto, community centers were equipped to assist voters. One such location, Central Neighbourhood House, reassured residents about their accessibility during these conditions. "We have retained adequate protocols for accessibility, ensuring all community members can participate," stated Serena Nudel, its director.
Encouraging sentiments echoed from within the community as polling stations prepared for what was expected to be a focused turnout. “Democracy is becoming harder to preserve - the least we can do is vote,” remarked Aniket Rao, gesturing to the importance of exercising one’s rights. The province remains vigilant about the impacts of this weather on voter turnout, with reports indicating decreased early voting rates compared to previous elections.
With all polling stations open until 9:00 PM, anticipation for the results mounted with each passing hour. After the polls closed, Ontario residents were invited to track live riding results, as each party awaited the final tally of support, marking the end of the winter campaign trails.
Leadership dynamics shifted rapidly during this unusual election campaign, shaped by personal remarks, weather complications, and community engagements. Whether Doug Ford’s PCs secure the desired majority and whether Crombie's Liberals manage to leap beyond the NDP remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the passion for change was palpable among many voters.