Headed to the polls: Ford confirms election call

First look at the local races, vote to come on Feb. 27

Ford calls for early provincial election amid tariff threat

Premier Doug Ford announced that Ontario will hold an early provincial election on February 27. 

The decision comes as U.S. President Donald Trump threatens to impose 25% tariffs on Canadian goods, potentially starting February 1. 

Ford explained that the election is necessary to secure a mandate to combat the tariffs and protect Ontario’s economy.

He added that the province is ready to spend tens of billions of dollars to safeguard Ontario’s economy, comparing it to the pandemic response.

Ford also cited a “lack of leadership” at the federal level, calling for strong leadership both in Ontario and across Canada. 

The next election had been scheduled for more than a year from now, but Ford said he needs a new madate to act now against the threat to our economy. 

Opposition parties argue that an early vote isn’t necessary, pointing out that they would back stimulus spending and that Ford, with his majority, already has a mandate to protect Ontario’s interests. 

Locally, Liberal Ted Hsu is the incumbent in the riding of Kingston and the Islands. None of the PC, NDP or Green Parties have declared candidates. 

In Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston, Conservative John Jordan, the siting MPP, is expected to seek re-election. He will be facing Rob Rainer, Mayor of Tay Valley Township, who is representing the Liberals. Neither the NDP or Greens have declared a candidate as of yet. 

KingstonDaily.ca will bring you extensive election coverage of the 2025 Ontario election from call to poll.