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Revision as of 01:08, 23 November 2022 editScottishFinnishRadish (talk | contribs)Checkusers, Oversighters, Administrators61,108 edits Reverting edit(s) by 176.124.192.63 (talk) to rev. 1123305106 by ScottishFinnishRadish: Vandalism (from contribs) (RW 16.1)Tags: RW Undo nowiki added Disambiguation links added← Previous edit Latest revision as of 00:59, 11 January 2025 edit undo174.93.89.27 (talk) Health: Source is from 2011. We can't concluded the source that Ford is not eating red meat in 2025. 
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{{Short description|26th premier of Ontario}}{{Other people}}{{pp-vandalism|small=yes}} {{Short description|Premier of Ontario since 2018}}
{{Other people}}
{{confused|Rob Ford}}
{{Use Canadian English|date=April 2021}} {{Use Canadian English|date=April 2021}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2018}} {{Use mdy dates|date=May 2024}}
{{Infobox officeholder {{Infobox officeholder
| honorific-prefix = ] | honorific-prefix = ]
| name = Doug Ford | name = Doug Ford
| honorific-suffix = {{post-nominals|country=CAN|MPP|size=100%}} | honorific-suffix = {{post-nominals|country=CAN|MPP|size=100%}}
| image = Douglas_Robert_Ford_2018.jpg | image = Doug Ford at Building Faster Fund announcement 2024-03-22 02 (cropped).jpg
| alt = Ford in 2018 wearing a navy blue suit and a poppy. | alt = Headshot of Ford in 2024
| caption = Ford in 2018 | caption = Ford in 2024
| office = Premier of Ontario | office = Premier of Ontario
| order = 26th | order = 26th
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* ] * ]
* ]}} * ]}}
| lieutenant_governor = ] | lieutenant_governor = {{plainlist|
* ]
* ]
}}
| deputy = {{plainlist| | deputy = {{plainlist|
* ] * ]
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| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1964|11|20}} | birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1964|11|20}}
| birth_place = ], ], Canada | birth_place = ], ], Canada
| residence = ], ], Toronto | residence = ], Etobicoke, Toronto
| nationality = Canadian
| party = ] | party = ]
| occupation = {{hlist|Businessman|politician}} | occupation = {{hlist|Businessman|politician}}
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| mother = Ruth Diane Campbell | mother = Ruth Diane Campbell
| father = ] | father = ]
| relations = {{plainlist| | relatives = {{plainlist|
* ] (brother) * ] (brother)
* ] (nephew)}} * ] (nephew)}}
| website = {{URL|www.fordmpp.ca}} | website = {{URL|https://fordmpp.ca/}}
}} }}
{{Doug Ford sidebar}} {{Doug Ford sidebar}}


'''Douglas Robert Ford Jr.''' {{post-nominals|country=CAN|MPP}} (born November 20, 1964) is a Canadian politician and businessman who has served as the 26th and current ] since June 2018 and leader of the ] since March 2018. He represents the ] ] of ] in the ]. '''Douglas Robert Ford Jr. ''' {{post-nominals|country=CAN|MPP}} (born November 20, 1964) is a Canadian politician and businessman who has served as the 26th and current ] since June 2018 and leader of the ] since March 2018. He represents the ] ] of ] in the ].

With his brother Randy, Ford co-owns ], a printing business operating in Canada and the United States that was founded by their father, ], who served as a ] (MPP) from 1995 to 1999. Ford was a ]lor for ] from 2010 to 2014 at the same time that his brother, ], was ]. Ford ran for the ], where he placed second behind ].


In 2018, Ford entered provincial politics and won the ]. He led the PCs to ] victories in the ] and ] general elections. As premier, Ford has made investments in public transportation, decreased the size of Toronto city council, led the province through the ], passed ''Bill 60'' to expand the use of private healthcare services, and has faced criticism for his government's handling of the ].
With his brother Randy, Ford co-owns ], a printing business operating in Canada and the United States that was founded by their father, ], who served as a ] (MPP) from 1995 to 1999. Ford was a ]lor for ] from 2010 to 2014 at the same time that his brother, ], was ]. Ford ran for the ], where he placed second behind ]. In 2018, Ford won the ] and led the PCs to ] victories in the ] and ] general elections.


==Early life, family, and education== ==Early life, family, and education==
Born in ], Ontario, Ford was the second of four children of ] and Ruth Diane Ford ({{nee}} Campbell).<ref>{{cite web|last=Goldsbie |first=Jonathan |url=http://www.thegridto.com/city/places/a-beautiful-day-in-rob-fords-neighbourhood/ |title=The Rob Ford walking tour |work=] |date=May 8, 2012 |access-date=February 3, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131109051551/http://www.thegridto.com/city/places/a-beautiful-day-in-rob-fords-neighbourhood/|archive-date=November 9, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/nationalpost/obituary.aspx?n=douglas-bruce-ford&pid=19372100 |title=Ford, Douglas Bruce |type=obituary |work=National Post |date=September 26, 2006 |access-date=March 20, 2018 |archive-date=March 21, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180321130437/http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/nationalpost/obituary.aspx?n=douglas-bruce-ford&pid=19372100 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="auto">Doolittle, 2014{{page needed|date=September 2018}}</ref> His paternal grandparents were English immigrants.<ref>{{cite news |author=Don Peat |url=http://www.torontosun.com/2012/07/31/rob-fords-ancestor-landed-in-canada-for-being-unruly |title=Rob Ford's ancestor landed in Canada for being 'unruly' |newspaper=Toronto Sun |date=July 31, 2012 |access-date=June 8, 2018 |archive-date=April 9, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160409001255/http://www.torontosun.com/2012/07/31/rob-fords-ancestor-landed-in-canada-for-being-unruly |url-status=live }}</ref> He graduated grade twelve from ].{{sfn|Doolittle|2014|pp=35–36}} He then attended ] for two months before dropping out with no degree.<ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181213082713/https://www.thestar.com/opinion/star-columnists/2018/09/12/doug-ford-exposed-the-agonizing-fragility-of-democratic-traditions.html |date=December 13, 2018}}, by Rick Salutin, '']'', September 14, 2018, p. A15</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Salutin |first1=Rick |title=Doug Ford exposed the agonizing fragility of democratic traditions |url=https://www.thestar.com/opinion/star-columnists/2018/09/12/doug-ford-exposed-the-agonizing-fragility-of-democratic-traditions.html |website=The Toronto Star |access-date=27 October 2018 |date=13 September 2018 |archive-date=December 13, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181213082713/https://www.thestar.com/opinion/star-columnists/2018/09/12/doug-ford-exposed-the-agonizing-fragility-of-democratic-traditions.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Borins |first1=Sandford |title=Questioning Doug Ford's resume |url=http://www.sandfordborins.com/2018/04/08/questioning-doug-fords-resume/ |website=Sandford Borins |access-date=27 October 2018 |date=April 8, 2018 |archive-date=November 16, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181116050047/http://www.sandfordborins.com/2018/04/08/questioning-doug-fords-resume/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Born in ], ], Ford was the second of four children of ] and Ruth Diane Ford ({{nee}} Campbell).<ref>{{cite web|last=Goldsbie |first=Jonathan |url=http://www.thegridto.com/city/places/a-beautiful-day-in-rob-fords-neighbourhood/ |title=The Rob Ford walking tour |work=] |date=May 8, 2012 |access-date=February 3, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131109051551/http://www.thegridto.com/city/places/a-beautiful-day-in-rob-fords-neighbourhood/|archive-date=November 9, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/legacyremembers/douglas-ford-obituary?id=47044175 |title=Ford, Douglas Bruce |type=obituary |work=National Post |date=September 26, 2006 |access-date=March 20, 2018 |archive-date=March 21, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180321130437/http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/nationalpost/obituary.aspx?n=douglas-bruce-ford&pid=19372100 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="auto">Doolittle, 2014{{page needed|date=September 2018}}</ref> His paternal grandparents were English immigrants.<ref>{{cite news |author=Don Peat |url=https://torontosun.com/2012/07/31/rob-fords-ancestor-landed-in-canada-for-being-unruly |title=Rob Ford's ancestor landed in Canada for being 'unruly' |newspaper=Toronto Sun |date=July 31, 2012 |access-date=June 8, 2018 |archive-date=April 9, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160409001255/http://www.torontosun.com/2012/07/31/rob-fords-ancestor-landed-in-canada-for-being-unruly |url-status=live }}</ref> He graduated grade twelve from ].{{sfn|Doolittle|2014|pp=35–36}} He then attended ] for two months before dropping out with no diploma.<ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181213082713/https://www.thestar.com/opinion/star-columnists/2018/09/12/doug-ford-exposed-the-agonizing-fragility-of-democratic-traditions.html |date=December 13, 2018}}, by Rick Salutin, '']'', September 14, 2018, p. A15</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Salutin |first1=Rick |title=Doug Ford exposed the agonizing fragility of democratic traditions |url=https://www.thestar.com/opinion/star-columnists/2018/09/12/doug-ford-exposed-the-agonizing-fragility-of-democratic-traditions.html |website=The Toronto Star |access-date=October 27, 2018 |date=September 13, 2018 |archive-date=December 13, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181213082713/https://www.thestar.com/opinion/star-columnists/2018/09/12/doug-ford-exposed-the-agonizing-fragility-of-democratic-traditions.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Borins |first1=Sandford |title=Questioning Doug Ford's resume |url=https://www.sandfordborins.com/2018/04/08/questioning-doug-fords-resume/ |website=Sandford Borins |access-date=October 27, 2018 |date=April 8, 2018 |archive-date=November 16, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181116050047/http://www.sandfordborins.com/2018/04/08/questioning-doug-fords-resume/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


==Early business career== ==Early business career==

In the 1990s, Ford became involved in the running of ], a business co-founded by his father in 1962.<ref>{{cite web |last=Daubs |first=Katie |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2014/02/03/5_things_you_didnt_know_about_rob_fords_family_revelations_from_the_book_crazy_town.html |title=5 things you didn't know about Rob Ford's family: Revelations from the book Crazy Town |work=Toronto Star |date=February 3, 2014 |access-date=May 27, 2014 |archive-date=February 28, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210228210514/https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2014/02/03/5_things_you_didnt_know_about_rob_fords_family_revelations_from_the_book_crazy_town.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="DecoInsideStory">{{cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/doug-ford-at-deco/article21067584/|title=Doug Ford at Deco: The inside story|first=Robyn|last=Doolittle|date=October 10, 2014|access-date=April 5, 2018|newspaper=]|ref=none|archive-date=April 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421231342/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/doug-ford-at-deco/article21067584/|url-status=live}}</ref> The company makes pressure-sensitive labels for plastic-wrapped grocery products.{{sfn|McDonald|2012|p=43}} Doug Jr. became president of the company in 2002, and was responsible for the company's expansion into ].<ref name="DecoInsideStory"/> Nearing his death, his father divided up the company, leaving 40 percent to Doug Jr., 40 percent to Randy and 20 percent to Rob. In 2008, Doug Jr. launched the purchase of Wise Tag and Label in ] and fired Wise Tag's manager. Former Deco employees suggest that the Chicago branch was well-managed under Doug Jr., and that he was well-liked but that the company declined under Randy's leadership after Doug Jr. entered politics in 2010.<ref>{{cite news |title=Ford family business 'a nightmare' since Doug handed managerial control to Randy, ex-employees say |first=Richard |last=Warnica |newspaper=National Post |date=June 4, 2014 |access-date=January 31, 2018 |url=https://nationalpost.com/posted-toronto/ford-family-business-a-nightmare-since-doug-handed-managerial-control-to-randy-ex-employees-say }}</ref><ref name="DecoInsideStory"/> {{As of|2011}}, Ford and his mother were directors of the company, managed by his brother Randy.{{sfn|McDonald|2012|p=43}}<ref name="lorinc-gm">{{cite news |newspaper=The Globe and Mail |last=Lorinc |first=John |title=Ford's unique approach to campaign financing: Borrow from family firm |date=April 6, 2011 |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/fords-unique-approach-to-campaign-financing-borrow-from-family-firm/article578922/ |access-date=December 10, 2012 |archive-date=June 23, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130623092926/http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/fords-unique-approach-to-campaign-financing-borrow-from-family-firm/article578922/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In the 1990s, Ford became involved in the running of ], a business co-founded by his father in 1962.<ref>{{cite web |last=Daubs |first=Katie |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2014/02/03/5_things_you_didnt_know_about_rob_fords_family_revelations_from_the_book_crazy_town.html |title=5 things you didn't know about Rob Ford's family: Revelations from the book Crazy Town |work=Toronto Star |date=February 3, 2014 |access-date=May 27, 2014 |archive-date=February 28, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210228210514/https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2014/02/03/5_things_you_didnt_know_about_rob_fords_family_revelations_from_the_book_crazy_town.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="DecoInsideStory">{{cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/doug-ford-at-deco/article21067584/|title=Doug Ford at Deco: The inside story|first=Robyn|last=Doolittle|date=October 10, 2014|access-date=April 5, 2018|newspaper=]|ref=none|archive-date=April 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421231342/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/doug-ford-at-deco/article21067584/|url-status=live}}</ref> The company makes pressure-sensitive labels for plastic-wrapped grocery products.{{sfn|McDonald|2012|p=43}} Doug Jr. became president of the company in 2002, and was responsible for the company's expansion into ].<ref name="DecoInsideStory"/> Nearing his death, his father divided up the company, leaving 40 percent to Doug Jr., 40 percent to Randy and 20 percent to Rob. In 2008, Doug Jr. launched the purchase of Wise Tag and Label in ] and fired Wise Tag's manager. Former Deco employees suggest that the Chicago branch was well-managed under Doug Jr., and that he was well-liked but that the company declined under Randy's leadership after Doug Jr. entered politics in 2010.<ref>{{cite news |title=Ford family business 'a nightmare' since Doug handed managerial control to Randy, ex-employees say |first=Richard |last=Warnica |newspaper=National Post |date=June 4, 2014 |access-date=January 31, 2018 |url=https://nationalpost.com/posted-toronto/ford-family-business-a-nightmare-since-doug-handed-managerial-control-to-randy-ex-employees-say }}</ref><ref name="DecoInsideStory"/> {{As of|2011}}, Ford and his mother were directors of the company, managed by his brother Randy.{{sfn|McDonald|2012|p=43}}<ref name="lorinc-gm">{{cite news |newspaper=The Globe and Mail |last=Lorinc |first=John |title=Ford's unique approach to campaign financing: Borrow from family firm |date=April 6, 2011 |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/fords-unique-approach-to-campaign-financing-borrow-from-family-firm/article578922/ |access-date=December 10, 2012 |archive-date=June 23, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130623092926/http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/fords-unique-approach-to-campaign-financing-borrow-from-family-firm/article578922/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


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==Municipal politics== ==Municipal politics==
On October 25, 2010, Ford was elected as councillor to Toronto City Council in Ward 2. He succeeded his brother, Rob, who ran successfully for mayor of Toronto. Upon election, Doug Ford announced that he would donate his $100,000 annual salary to community organizations.<ref>{{cite news |newspaper=Toronto Sun |title=Doug Ford to donate salary to charities |url=http://www.torontosun.com/news/torontovotes2010/2010/10/26/15840566.html |last=Peat |first=Don |date=October 26, 2010 |access-date=June 4, 2013 |archive-date=March 3, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303223821/http://www.torontosun.com/news/torontovotes2010/2010/10/26/15840566.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On October 25, 2010, Ford was elected as councillor to Toronto City Council in Ward 2. He succeeded his brother, Rob, who ran successfully for mayor of Toronto. Upon election, Doug Ford announced that he would donate his $100,000 annual salary to community organizations.<ref>{{cite news |newspaper=Toronto Sun |title=Doug Ford to donate salary to charities |url=https://torontosun.com/news/torontovotes2010/2010/10/26/15840566.html |last=Peat |first=Don |date=October 26, 2010 |access-date=June 4, 2013 |archive-date=March 3, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303223821/http://www.torontosun.com/news/torontovotes2010/2010/10/26/15840566.html |url-status=live }}</ref>


]
As a city councillor, Ford voted to privatize garbage pickup west of Yonge Street,{{clarify|date=August 2021}} declare the ] an essential service, reduce the office budget of city councillors and eliminate the vehicle registration tax.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=The Toronto Star|title=Ford Brothers have near unanimous voting record on council|date=September 12, 2014|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/toronto2014election/2014/09/12/ford_brothers_have_a_nearunanimous_voting_record_on_council.html|access-date=March 30, 2018|archive-date=March 9, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210309053308/https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/toronto2014election/2014/09/12/ford_brothers_have_a_nearunanimous_voting_record_on_council.html|url-status=live}}</ref> As a city councillor, Ford voted to privatize garbage pickup west of Yonge Street,{{clarify|date=August 2021}} declare the ] an essential service, reduce the office budget of city councillors and eliminate the vehicle registration tax.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=The Toronto Star|title=Ford Brothers have near unanimous voting record on council|date=September 12, 2014|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/toronto2014election/2014/09/12/ford_brothers_have_a_nearunanimous_voting_record_on_council.html|access-date=March 30, 2018|archive-date=March 9, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210309053308/https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/toronto2014election/2014/09/12/ford_brothers_have_a_nearunanimous_voting_record_on_council.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


===Boards and agencies=== ===Boards and agencies===
While on city council, Ford served on the board of Build Toronto,<ref name="gm-ballantyne-removal">{{cite news |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/toronto/derek-ballantyne-leaves-build-toronto/article1939066/ |title=Derek Ballantyne leaves as chief operating officer; formerly served as CEO of Toronto Community Housing Corporation |newspaper=The Globe and Mail |location=Toronto, ON |first=Anna |last=Mehler Paperny |date=March 11, 2011 |access-date=August 26, 2017 |archive-date=March 19, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110319044818/http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/toronto/derek-ballantyne-leaves-build-toronto/article1939066/ |url-status=live }}</ref> an arm's-length city body responsible for developing and selling city land. He was also a director of the ], and served on the Budget Committee, the Civic Appointments Committee and the Government Management Committee at Council.<ref>{{cite web |publisher=City of Toronto |title=City of Toronto: City Councillors - Councillor Doug Ford |url=http://www.toronto.ca/councillors/ford1.htm |access-date=June 5, 2013 |archive-date=September 13, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130913213548/http://www.toronto.ca/councillors/ford1.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> While on city council, Ford served on the board of Build Toronto,<ref name="gm-ballantyne-removal">{{cite news |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/toronto/derek-ballantyne-leaves-build-toronto/article1939066/ |title=Derek Ballantyne leaves as chief operating officer; formerly served as CEO of Toronto Community Housing Corporation |newspaper=The Globe and Mail |location=Toronto, ON |first=Anna |last=Mehler Paperny |date=March 11, 2011 |access-date=August 26, 2017 |archive-date=March 19, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110319044818/http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/toronto/derek-ballantyne-leaves-build-toronto/article1939066/ |url-status=live }}</ref> an arm's-length city body responsible for developing and selling city land. He was also a director of the ], and served on the Budget Committee, the Civic Appointments Committee and the Government Management Committee at Council.<ref>{{cite web |publisher=City of Toronto |title=City of Toronto: City Councillors - Councillor Doug Ford |url=https://www.toronto.ca/councillors/ford1.htm |access-date=June 5, 2013 |archive-date=September 13, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130913213548/http://www.toronto.ca/councillors/ford1.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>
]]]

Ford was a member of the board of Toronto Transit Infrastructure Limited, a corporation set up to finance a ] subway extension, which Council later cancelled. In 2011, Ford promoted an alternative plan for the ] district of Toronto, including a ], a boat-in hotel, the world's largest ] and a ].<ref>{{cite news |newspaper=Toronto Star |title=Doug Ford's dream waterfront? Ferris wheel, monorail and a boat-in hotel |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2011/08/30/doug_fords_dream_waterfront_ferris_wheel_monorail_and_a_boatin_hotel.html |date=August 30, 2011 |access-date=June 5, 2013 |first1=David |last1=Rider |first2=Daniel |last2=Dale |archive-date=March 6, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130306022548/http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2011/08/30/doug_fords_dream_waterfront_ferris_wheel_monorail_and_a_boatin_hotel.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The plan was ridiculed in the media and council voted it down—including by members of the mayoral executive committee.{{sfn|Towhey|Schneller|2015|p=}} Ford was a member of the board of Toronto Transit Infrastructure Limited, a corporation set up to finance a ] subway extension, which Council later cancelled. In 2011, Ford promoted an alternative plan for the ] district of Toronto, including a ], a boat-in hotel, the world's largest ] and a ].<ref>{{cite news |newspaper=Toronto Star |title=Doug Ford's dream waterfront? Ferris wheel, monorail and a boat-in hotel |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2011/08/30/doug_fords_dream_waterfront_ferris_wheel_monorail_and_a_boatin_hotel.html |date=August 30, 2011 |access-date=June 5, 2013 |first1=David |last1=Rider |first2=Daniel |last2=Dale |archive-date=March 6, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130306022548/http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2011/08/30/doug_fords_dream_waterfront_ferris_wheel_monorail_and_a_boatin_hotel.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The plan was ridiculed in the media and council voted it down—including by members of the mayoral executive committee.{{sfn|Towhey|Schneller|2015|p=}}


===Other events while councillor=== ===Other events while councillor===
Ford caused controversy after revealing that his brother Rob would be served a ] if Rob's friend and driver Alexander Lisi went to court over charges of extortion.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2014/03/04/rob_ford_friend_sandro_lisi_has_long_history_of_violence_threats_and_dirty_tricks.html|title=Rob Ford friend Sandro Lisi has long history of violence, threats and dirty tricks|website=] |date=March 4, 2014|access-date=November 4, 2014|archive-date=November 4, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141104174758/http://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2014/03/04/rob_ford_friend_sandro_lisi_has_long_history_of_violence_threats_and_dirty_tricks.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford commented that the subpoena was in "payback" for Toronto Police Chief ] not getting a contract renewal with the ], saying "This is why we need a change at the top", in regards to Blair's contract.<ref>{{cite news|publisher=CBC News|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/police-chief-bill-blair-rejects-doug-ford-s-apology-1.2735380|title=Police Chief Bill Blair rejects Doug Ford's apology|access-date=November 4, 2014|archive-date=November 19, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141119101332/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/police-chief-bill-blair-rejects-doug-ford-s-apology-1.2735380|url-status=live}}</ref> Blair filed a defamation lawsuit, demanding a written apology in exchange for dropping the suit. Ford apologized and retracted the comments.<ref>{{cite news |publisher=CBC News |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/police-chief-bill-blair-accepts-apology-from-doug-ford-for-tirade-1.2736448 |title=Police Chief Bill Blair accepts apology from Doug Ford for 'tirade' |access-date=November 4, 2014 |archive-date=November 19, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141119104736/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/police-chief-bill-blair-accepts-apology-from-doug-ford-for-tirade-1.2736448 |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford caused controversy after revealing that his brother Rob would be served a ] if Rob's friend and driver Alexander Lisi went to court over charges of extortion.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2014/03/04/rob_ford_friend_sandro_lisi_has_long_history_of_violence_threats_and_dirty_tricks.html|title=Rob Ford friend Sandro Lisi has long history of violence, threats and dirty tricks|website=] |date=March 4, 2014|access-date=November 4, 2014|archive-date=November 4, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141104174758/http://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2014/03/04/rob_ford_friend_sandro_lisi_has_long_history_of_violence_threats_and_dirty_tricks.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford commented that the subpoena was in "payback" for Toronto Police Chief ] not getting a contract renewal with the ], saying "This is why we need a change at the top", in regards to Blair's contract.<ref>{{cite news|publisher=CBC News|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/police-chief-bill-blair-rejects-doug-ford-s-apology-1.2735380|title=Police Chief Bill Blair rejects Doug Ford's apology|access-date=November 4, 2014|archive-date=November 19, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141119101332/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/police-chief-bill-blair-rejects-doug-ford-s-apology-1.2735380|url-status=live}}</ref> Blair filed a defamation lawsuit, demanding a written apology in exchange for dropping the suit. Ford apologized and retracted the comments.<ref>{{cite news |publisher=CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/police-chief-bill-blair-accepts-apology-from-doug-ford-for-tirade-1.2736448 |title=Police Chief Bill Blair accepts apology from Doug Ford for 'tirade' |access-date=November 4, 2014 |archive-date=November 19, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141119104736/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/police-chief-bill-blair-accepts-apology-from-doug-ford-for-tirade-1.2736448 |url-status=live }}</ref>


An investigative report by '']'' published in May 2013 alleged that Ford had sold ] at ] for several years in the 1980s,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2013/05/toronto-deputy-mayor-doug-ford-robs-brother-former-hash-dealer/314893/ |newspaper=] |title=Is Toronto City Councillor Doug Ford, Rob's Brother, a Former Hash Dealer? |first=Connor |last=Simpson |date=May 25, 2013 |access-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-date=February 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210227195910/https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2013/05/toronto-deputy-mayor-doug-ford-robs-brother-former-hash-dealer/314893/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=drug>{{cite news |last=McArthur |first=Greg |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/globe-investigation-the-ford-familys-history-with-drug-dealing/article12153014/?page=all |title=Globe investigation: The Ford family's history with drug dealing |newspaper=The Globe and Mail |date=May 25, 2013 |access-date=May 27, 2014 |archive-date=March 13, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210313002458/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/globe-investigation-the-ford-familys-history-with-drug-dealing/article12153014/?page=all |url-status=live }}</ref> based on interviews with ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/05/25/doug-ford-drug-dealing-globe-and-mail_n_3336567.html |title=Doug Ford: Drug Dealing Allegations 'Disgusting' |newspaper=] |date=May 25, 2013 |access-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-date=March 4, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210304220240/https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/05/25/doug-ford-drug-dealing-globe-and-mail_n_3336567.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford, who had never been charged with drug possession or trafficking, denied the allegations<ref name="Maclean's">{{cite journal |url=http://www.macleans.ca/news/canada/doug-ford-denies-globe-report-that-he-dealt-hashish-in-80s/ |title=Doug Ford denies Globe report that he dealt hashish in 80s |first1=Diana |last1=Mehta |first2=Will |last2=Campbell |agency=The Canadian Press |journal=] |date=May 26, 2013 |access-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-date=March 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308000225/https://www.macleans.ca/news/canada/doug-ford-denies-globe-report-that-he-dealt-hashish-in-80s/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and accused the newspaper of unfairly targeting his brother, then-mayor Rob Ford. The newspaper defended its report and its use of anonymous sources at an ] hearing,<ref name=drug/><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/star-and-globe-defend-their-rob-and-doug-ford-stories-1.1699053 |title=Star and Globe defend their Rob and Doug Ford stories |publisher=CBC News |date=September 9, 2013 |access-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-date=April 1, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180401061608/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/star-and-globe-defend-their-rob-and-doug-ford-stories-1.1699053 |url-status=live }}</ref> which dismissed complaints against the newspaper and found that its coverage was "fair and ethical".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://j-source.ca/article/updated-ontario-press-council-rules-star-globe-rob-ford-stories-ethical/|title=Updated: Ontario Press Council rules Star, Globe Rob Ford stories ethical - JSource|date=October 16, 2013|access-date=March 25, 2018|archive-date=February 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225083812/https://j-source.ca/article/updated-ontario-press-council-rules-star-globe-rob-ford-stories-ethical/|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford said at the time that he planned to sue the newspaper for libel.<ref>{{cite news|author=White, Patrick|date=September 12, 2014|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/can-doug-ford-win-torontos-mayoral-race/article20591133/|title=Can Doug Ford win Toronto's mayoral race?|newspaper=The Globe and Mail|access-date=September 14, 2014|archive-date=March 8, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308182119/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/can-doug-ford-win-torontos-mayoral-race/article20591133/|url-status=live}}</ref> When asked in a 2018 interview why he had not sued, he replied that he had decided a lawsuit would be a "waste of time".<ref>{{cite web |title=Doug Ford Sure Disliked A Lot of Questions in This CBC Interview |url=http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2018/03/13/doug-ford-sure-disliked-a-lot-of-questions-in-this-cbc-interview_a_23384590/ |website=HuffPost |first=Emma |last=Prestwich |date=March 13, 2018 |access-date=March 20, 2018 |archive-date=February 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210226140554/https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2018/03/13/doug-ford-sure-disliked-a-lot-of-questions-in-this-cbc-interview_a_23384590/ |url-status=live }}</ref> An investigative report by '']'' published in May 2013 alleged that Ford had sold ] at ] for several years in the 1980s,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2013/05/toronto-deputy-mayor-doug-ford-robs-brother-former-hash-dealer/314893/ |newspaper=] |title=Is Toronto City Councillor Doug Ford, Rob's Brother, a Former Hash Dealer? |first=Connor |last=Simpson |date=May 25, 2013 |access-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-date=February 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210227195910/https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2013/05/toronto-deputy-mayor-doug-ford-robs-brother-former-hash-dealer/314893/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=drug>{{cite news |last=McArthur |first=Greg |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/globe-investigation-the-ford-familys-history-with-drug-dealing/article12153014/?page=all |title=Globe investigation: The Ford family's history with drug dealing |newspaper=The Globe and Mail |date=May 25, 2013 |access-date=May 27, 2014 |archive-date=March 13, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210313002458/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/globe-investigation-the-ford-familys-history-with-drug-dealing/article12153014/?page=all |url-status=live }}</ref> based on interviews with ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.huffpost.com/archive/ca/entry/2013/05/25/doug-ford-drug-dealing-globe-and-mail_n_3336567.html |title=Doug Ford: Drug Dealing Allegations 'Disgusting' |newspaper=] |date=May 25, 2013 |access-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-date=March 4, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210304220240/https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/05/25/doug-ford-drug-dealing-globe-and-mail_n_3336567.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford, who had never been charged with drug possession or trafficking, denied the allegations<ref name="Maclean's">{{cite journal |url=https://macleans.ca/news/canada/doug-ford-denies-globe-report-that-he-dealt-hashish-in-80s/ |title=Doug Ford denies Globe report that he dealt hashish in 80s |first1=Diana |last1=Mehta |first2=Will |last2=Campbell |publisher=The Canadian Press |journal=] |date=May 26, 2013 |access-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-date=March 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308000225/https://www.macleans.ca/news/canada/doug-ford-denies-globe-report-that-he-dealt-hashish-in-80s/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and accused the newspaper of unfairly targeting his brother, then-mayor Rob Ford. The newspaper defended its report and its use of anonymous sources at an ] hearing,<ref name=drug/><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/star-and-globe-defend-their-rob-and-doug-ford-stories-1.1699053 |title=Star and Globe defend their Rob and Doug Ford stories |publisher=CBC News |date=September 9, 2013 |access-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-date=April 1, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180401061608/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/star-and-globe-defend-their-rob-and-doug-ford-stories-1.1699053 |url-status=live }}</ref> which dismissed complaints against the newspaper and found that its coverage was "fair and ethical".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://j-source.ca/updated-ontario-press-council-rules-star-globe-rob-ford-stories-ethical/|title=Updated: Ontario Press Council rules Star, Globe Rob Ford stories ethical - JSource|date=October 16, 2013|access-date=March 25, 2018|archive-date=February 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225083812/https://j-source.ca/article/updated-ontario-press-council-rules-star-globe-rob-ford-stories-ethical/|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford said at the time that he planned to sue the newspaper for libel.<ref>{{cite news|author=White, Patrick|date=September 12, 2014|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/can-doug-ford-win-torontos-mayoral-race/article20591133/|title=Can Doug Ford win Toronto's mayoral race?|newspaper=The Globe and Mail|access-date=September 14, 2014|archive-date=March 8, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308182119/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/can-doug-ford-win-torontos-mayoral-race/article20591133/|url-status=live}}</ref> When asked in a 2018 interview why he had not sued, he replied that he had decided a lawsuit would be a "waste of time".<ref>{{cite web |title=Doug Ford Sure Disliked A Lot of Questions in This CBC Interview |url=https://www.huffpost.com/archive/ca/entry/2018/03/13/doug-ford-sure-disliked-a-lot-of-questions-in-this-cbc-interview_a_23384590/ |website=HuffPost |first=Emma |last=Prestwich |date=March 13, 2018 |access-date=March 20, 2018 |archive-date=February 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210226140554/https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2018/03/13/doug-ford-sure-disliked-a-lot-of-questions-in-this-cbc-interview_a_23384590/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


Ford opposed a house for developmentally disabled youth in his ward, saying the home had "ruined the community".<ref>{{cite news|title=Etobicoke home for developmentally disabled youth under fire from residents, Councillor Doug Ford 'You've ruined the community': Ford tells Griffin Centre staff at raucous community meeting|url=https://www.toronto.com/news-story/4525575-etobicoke-home-for-developmentally-disabled-youth-under-fire-from-residents-councillor-doug-ford/|access-date=April 17, 2018|work=toronto.com|date=May 16, 2014|archive-date=April 18, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180418161057/https://www.toronto.com/news-story/4525575-etobicoke-home-for-developmentally-disabled-youth-under-fire-from-residents-councillor-doug-ford/|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford opposed a house for developmentally disabled youth in his ward, saying the home had "ruined the community".<ref>{{cite news|title=Etobicoke home for developmentally disabled youth under fire from residents, Councillor Doug Ford 'You've ruined the community': Ford tells Griffin Centre staff at raucous community meeting|url=https://www.toronto.com/news-story/4525575-etobicoke-home-for-developmentally-disabled-youth-under-fire-from-residents-councillor-doug-ford/|access-date=April 17, 2018|work=toronto.com|date=May 16, 2014|archive-date=April 18, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180418161057/https://www.toronto.com/news-story/4525575-etobicoke-home-for-developmentally-disabled-youth-under-fire-from-residents-councillor-doug-ford/|url-status=live}}</ref>


===Aspirations for higher office and 2014 mayoral candidacy=== ===Aspirations for higher office and 2014 mayoral candidacy===
In June 2013, Ford announced that he would not run for re-election as councillor in the next Toronto election, scheduled for 2014: "I won't be running next time, at least down here I won't be running, I'll be running away from this place in 16 months", expressing his frustration with municipal politics.<ref>{{cite news |newspaper=Toronto Sun |title=Doug Ford says he won't run for council in 2014 |url=https://torontosun.com/2013/06/12/doug-ford-says-he-wont-run-for-council-in-2014 |last=Peat |first=Don |date=June 12, 2013 |access-date=August 7, 2013 |archive-date=March 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210307204155/https://www.torontosun.com/2013/06/12/doug-ford-says-he-wont-run-for-council-in-2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> It was speculated at the time that Ford may be a Progressive Conservative candidate for a future Ontario election, or interested in the leadership of the PCs.<ref>{{cite news |newspaper=Now |location=Toronto, Ontario |url=https://nowtoronto.com/the-real-fight-in-etobicoke |title=The real fight in Etobicoke |last=Di Matteo |first=Enzo |date=August 1, 2013 |access-date=February 12, 2021 |archive-date=November 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211130131509/https://nowtoronto.com/the-real-fight-in-etobicoke |url-status=live }}</ref> On February 20, 2014, after meeting with PC leader ], Ford announced that he would not be a candidate in the ], which was called for June 12, 2014, so that he could focus on his brother's re-election campaign. Ford explained, "The timing right now just doesn't work."<ref>{{cite news|title=Councillor Doug Ford will not run in provincial election|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/toronto2014election/2014/02/20/live_doug_ford_makes_announcement.html|access-date=February 21, 2014|newspaper=Toronto Star|date=February 20, 2014|archive-date=March 9, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210309015059/https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/toronto2014election/2014/02/20/live_doug_ford_makes_announcement.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
]
], April 2014]]
In June 2013, Ford announced that he would not run for re-election as councillor in the next Toronto election, scheduled for 2014: "I won't be running next time, at least down here I won't be running, I'll be running away from this place in 16 months", expressing his frustration with municipal politics.<ref>{{cite news |newspaper=Toronto Sun |title=Doug Ford says he won't run for council in 2014 |url=http://www.torontosun.com/2013/06/12/doug-ford-says-he-wont-run-for-council-in-2014 |last=Peat |first=Don |date=June 12, 2013 |access-date=August 7, 2013 |archive-date=March 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210307204155/https://www.torontosun.com/2013/06/12/doug-ford-says-he-wont-run-for-council-in-2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> It was speculated at the time that Ford may be a Progressive Conservative candidate for a future Ontario election, or interested in the leadership of the PCs.<ref>{{cite news |newspaper=Now |location=Toronto, Ontario |url=https://nowtoronto.com/the-real-fight-in-etobicoke |title=The real fight in Etobicoke |last=Di Matteo |first=Enzo |date=August 1, 2013 |access-date=February 12, 2021 |archive-date=November 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211130131509/https://nowtoronto.com/the-real-fight-in-etobicoke |url-status=live }}</ref> On February 20, 2014, after meeting with PC leader ], Ford announced that he would not be a candidate in the ], which was called for June 12, 2014, so that he could focus on his brother's re-election campaign. Ford explained, "The timing right now just doesn't work."<ref>{{cite news|title=Councillor Doug Ford will not run in provincial election|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/toronto2014election/2014/02/20/live_doug_ford_makes_announcement.html|access-date=February 21, 2014|newspaper=Toronto Star|date=February 20, 2014|archive-date=March 9, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210309015059/https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/toronto2014election/2014/02/20/live_doug_ford_makes_announcement.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
After his brother Rob entered drug rehab in May 2014, Ford commented that he would not rule out running for mayor.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://torontosun.com/2014/05/06/doug-ford-wont-rule-out-running-for-mayor |title=Doug Ford won't rule out running for mayor |first=Don |last=Peat |newspaper=Toronto Sun |date=May 6, 2014 |access-date=May 7, 2014 |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112003959/https://torontosun.com/2014/05/06/doug-ford-wont-rule-out-running-for-mayor |url-status=live }}</ref> Rob returned from rehab and continued his campaign for mayor, but withdrew after he was diagnosed with an abdominal tumour and hospitalized. Doug Ford then entered the mayoral campaign in the last hour before the nomination deadline on September 12, 2014.<ref>{{cite news|title=Rob Ford drops out of mayoral race, Doug Ford running in his place|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/ford-dropping-out-of-toronto-mayoral-race/article20576741/|newspaper=The Globe and Mail|date=September 12, 2014|access-date=August 26, 2017|archive-date=January 27, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210127140716/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/ford-dropping-out-of-toronto-mayoral-race/article20576741/|url-status=live}}</ref> Comments Ford made during the campaign received criticism for alleged ], such as ] and ], and critics accused him of ] and of drug dealing in the past.{{sfn|Caruana|McGregor|Moore|Stephenson|2018|p=235}} Though voters viewed the brothers as having the same ideological stance and gave them similar levels of support,{{sfn|Anderson|McGregor|Moore|Stephenson|2015|p=24}} Rob's drug scandal received little attention with regard to Doug's campaign.{{sfn|Anderson|McGregor|Moore|Stephenson|2015|p=23}}


After his brother Rob entered drug rehab in May 2014, Ford commented that he would not rule out running for mayor.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.torontosun.com/2014/05/06/doug-ford-wont-rule-out-running-for-mayor |title=Doug Ford won't rule out running for mayor |first=Don |last=Peat |newspaper=Toronto Sun |date=May 6, 2014 |access-date=May 7, 2014 |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112003959/https://torontosun.com/2014/05/06/doug-ford-wont-rule-out-running-for-mayor |url-status=live }}</ref> Rob returned from rehab and continued his campaign for mayor, but withdrew after he was diagnosed with an abdominal tumour and hospitalized. Doug Ford then entered the mayoral campaign in the last hour before the nomination deadline on September 12, 2014.<ref>{{cite news|title=Rob Ford drops out of mayoral race, Doug Ford running in his place|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/ford-dropping-out-of-toronto-mayoral-race/article20576741/|newspaper=The Globe and Mail|date=September 12, 2014|access-date=August 26, 2017|archive-date=January 27, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210127140716/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/ford-dropping-out-of-toronto-mayoral-race/article20576741/|url-status=live}}</ref> Comments Ford made during the campaign received criticism for alleged ], such as ] and ], and critics accused him of ] and of drug dealing in the past.{{sfn|Caruana|McGregor|Moore|Stephenson|2018|p=235}} Though voters viewed the brothers as having the same ideological stance and gave them similar levels of support,{{sfn|Anderson|McGregor|Moore|Stephenson|2015|p=24}} Rob's drug scandal received little attention with regard to Doug's campaign.{{sfn|Anderson|McGregor|Moore|Stephenson|2015|p=23}} Ford's campaign got the attention of '']''{{'}}s ], who closed an episode begging Torontonians to vote for Doug Ford for the world's amusement.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://toronto.citynews.ca/2014/10/27/comedian-john-oliver-begs-toronto-to-vote-for-doug-ford/|title=Comedian John Oliver begs Toronto to vote for Doug Ford|date=October 27, 2014|work=CityNews Toronto|access-date=March 1, 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=March 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180302044642/http://toronto.citynews.ca/2014/10/27/comedian-john-oliver-begs-toronto-to-vote-for-doug-ford/|url-status=live}}</ref> Doug Ford maintained the support that Rob had in the polls and made no significant ground against frontrunner John Tory, but maintained his lead over ]. Ford lost the election to Tory, having 34 percent of the support compared to Tory's 40 percent. Ford's campaign was fined $11,950 for placing 478 illegal lawn signs during the campaign, including placing signs on the ], the ], and on civic buildings and parks.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cp24.com/news/ford-facing-11-950-fine-over-illegal-signs-chow-and-tory-on-hook-for-lesser-amounts-1.2076898|title=Ford facing $11,950 fine over illegal signs, Chow and Tory on hook for lesser amounts|date=October 29, 2014|access-date=October 30, 2014|archive-date=May 19, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210519190106/https://www.cp24.com/news/ford-facing-11-950-fine-over-illegal-signs-chow-and-tory-on-hook-for-lesser-amounts-1.2076898|url-status=live}}</ref>


Ford's campaign got the attention of '']''{{'}}s ], who closed an episode begging Torontonians to vote for Doug Ford for the world's amusement.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://toronto.citynews.ca/2014/10/27/comedian-john-oliver-begs-toronto-to-vote-for-doug-ford/|title=Comedian John Oliver begs Toronto to vote for Doug Ford|date=October 27, 2014|work=CityNews Toronto|access-date=March 1, 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=March 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180302044642/http://toronto.citynews.ca/2014/10/27/comedian-john-oliver-begs-toronto-to-vote-for-doug-ford/|url-status=live}}</ref> Doug Ford maintained the support that Rob had in the polls and made no significant ground against frontrunner John Tory, but maintained his lead over ]. Ford lost the election to Tory, having 34 percent of the support compared to Tory's 40 percent. Ford's campaign was fined $11,950 for placing 478 illegal lawn signs during the campaign, including placing signs on the ], the ], and on civic buildings and parks.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cp24.com/news/ford-facing-11-950-fine-over-illegal-signs-chow-and-tory-on-hook-for-lesser-amounts-1.2076898|title=Ford facing $11,950 fine over illegal signs, Chow and Tory on hook for lesser amounts|date=October 29, 2014|access-date=October 30, 2014|archive-date=May 19, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210519190106/https://www.cp24.com/news/ford-facing-11-950-fine-over-illegal-signs-chow-and-tory-on-hook-for-lesser-amounts-1.2076898|url-status=live}}</ref> Following his unsuccessful mayoral candidacy, there was speculation that Ford would become a candidate for the ] of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario. Ford told reporters: "It's on the table, I would really consider it", and added: "Our campaign is ready to go. Our people are itching to get involved. We are miles ahead of the other candidates."<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/doug-ford-says-ontario-pc-leadership-bid-is-on-the-table/article21358827/|title=Doug Ford says Ontario PC leadership bid is 'on the table'|work=The Globe and Mail|date=October 28, 2014|access-date=November 20, 2015|archive-date=March 8, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308223704/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/doug-ford-says-ontario-pc-leadership-bid-is-on-the-table/article21358827/|url-status=live}}</ref> On November 27, 2014, Ford announced that he would not be a candidate for the position and endorsed the candidacy of family friend ].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2014/11/27/doug_ford_declines_to_enter_race_for_ontario_pc_leadership.html|title=Doug Ford won't enter race for Ontario PC leadership|work=Toronto Star|date=November 27, 2014|access-date=November 20, 2015|archive-date=March 9, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210309011316/https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2014/11/27/doug_ford_declines_to_enter_race_for_ontario_pc_leadership.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

Following his unsuccessful mayoral candidacy, there was speculation that Ford would become a candidate for the ] of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario. Ford told reporters: "It's on the table, I would really consider it", and added: "Our campaign is ready to go. Our people are itching to get involved. We are miles ahead of the other candidates."<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/doug-ford-says-ontario-pc-leadership-bid-is-on-the-table/article21358827/|title=Doug Ford says Ontario PC leadership bid is 'on the table'|work=The Globe and Mail|date=October 28, 2014|access-date=November 20, 2015|archive-date=March 8, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308223704/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/doug-ford-says-ontario-pc-leadership-bid-is-on-the-table/article21358827/|url-status=live}}</ref> On November 27, 2014, Ford announced that he would not be a candidate for the position and endorsed the candidacy of family friend Christine Elliott.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2014/11/27/doug_ford_declines_to_enter_race_for_ontario_pc_leadership.html|title=Doug Ford won't enter race for Ontario PC leadership|work=Toronto Star|date=November 27, 2014|access-date=November 20, 2015|archive-date=March 9, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210309011316/https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2014/11/27/doug_ford_declines_to_enter_race_for_ontario_pc_leadership.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


=== Ford Nation book === === Ford Nation book ===
A book by Doug and Rob Ford titled ] appeared in 2016.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Zimonjic|first1=Peter|last2=Starr|first2=Katharine|title=Doug Ford touts 'the true story' about Rob Ford's tumultuous career in new book|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/doug-rob-ford-book-1.3861246|access-date=July 20, 2017|publisher=CBC News|date=November 22, 2016|archive-date=December 31, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161231051332/http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/doug-rob-ford-book-1.3861246|url-status=live}}</ref> A book by Doug and Rob Ford titled ] appeared in 2016.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Zimonjic|first1=Peter|last2=Starr|first2=Katharine|title=Doug Ford touts 'the true story' about Rob Ford's tumultuous career in new book|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/doug-rob-ford-book-1.3861246|access-date=July 20, 2017|publisher=CBC News|date=November 22, 2016|archive-date=December 31, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161231051332/http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/doug-rob-ford-book-1.3861246|url-status=live}}</ref>


===Integrity commissioner ruling against Ford=== ===Integrity commissioner ruling against Ford===
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Since Ford was no longer a councillor by the time the ruling was issued, the commissioner did not recommend any sanctions for Ford.<ref>{{cite news |title=Former councillor Doug Ford improperly used political influence to assist clients at city hall |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2016/12/08/former-councillor-doug-ford-improperly-used-political-influence-to-assist-clients-at-city-hall.html |first=Jennifer |last=Pagliaro |date=December 8, 2016 |newspaper=Toronto Star |access-date=December 8, 2016 |archive-date=December 8, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161208192137/https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2016/12/08/former-councillor-doug-ford-improperly-used-political-influence-to-assist-clients-at-city-hall.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Since Ford was no longer a councillor by the time the ruling was issued, the commissioner did not recommend any sanctions for Ford.<ref>{{cite news |title=Former councillor Doug Ford improperly used political influence to assist clients at city hall |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2016/12/08/former-councillor-doug-ford-improperly-used-political-influence-to-assist-clients-at-city-hall.html |first=Jennifer |last=Pagliaro |date=December 8, 2016 |newspaper=Toronto Star |access-date=December 8, 2016 |archive-date=December 8, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161208192137/https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2016/12/08/former-councillor-doug-ford-improperly-used-political-influence-to-assist-clients-at-city-hall.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== Political blind date ===
In a November 2017 episode of the ] series '']'', Ford was paired with then ] (NDP) ] MPP, ] (who would later go on to lead the ]). The pair explored different forms of transportation, with Singh taking Ford on a downtown Toronto ] while Ford drove Singh along the ] on ].<ref>{{cite news|title=What happens when Doug Ford and Jagmeet Singh go on a blind date?|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/insight/2017/11/14/what-happens-when-doug-ford-and-jagmeet-singh-go-on-a-blind-date.html|access-date=March 4, 2018|work=Toronto Star|date=November 14, 2017|quote=Ford, who has since announced his second mayoral run for 2018, has said he made a friend in Singh, who was then an Ontario MPP from Brampton.|archive-date=June 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612141406/https://www.thestar.com/news/insight/2017/11/14/what-happens-when-doug-ford-and-jagmeet-singh-go-on-a-blind-date.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford said of the experience that the two became friends, and Singh said Ford was "very warm and friendly".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/insight/2017/11/15/he-cycled-on-our-date-and-then-hopped-into-his-bmw-doug-ford-and-jagmeet-singh-rate-their-blind-date.html|title='He cycled on our date and then hopped into his BMW': Doug Ford and Jagmeet Singh rate their blind date|newspaper=]|date=November 15, 2017|access-date=April 4, 2018|author=Toronto Star staff|archive-date=June 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612142800/https://www.thestar.com/news/insight/2017/11/15/he-cycled-on-our-date-and-then-hopped-into-his-bmw-doug-ford-and-jagmeet-singh-rate-their-blind-date.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


===Cancelled 2018 Toronto mayoral campaign=== ===Cancelled 2018 Toronto mayoral campaign===
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| slogan = Strong Party, Strong Ontario | slogan = Strong Party, Strong Ontario
| chant = | chant =
| website = {{url|fordforleader.ca}} | website = {{URL|fordforleader.ca}}
}} }}


{{main|2018 Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario leadership election}} {{main|2018 Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario leadership election}}
] ]
Following the sudden resignation of ] on January 25, 2018, the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario announced a new leader would need to be chosen before the ] in June. Ford was the first candidate to announce, on January 29, that he would seek the leadership of the party.<ref>{{cite news |title=Doug Ford says he will run in Ontario PC leadership race |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-announcement-etobicoke-ontario-pc-leader-1.4508622 |first=Muriel |last=Draaisma |newspaper=CBC News |date=January 29, 2018 |access-date=July 19, 2018 |archive-date=November 24, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201124064801/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-announcement-etobicoke-ontario-pc-leader-1.4508622 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2018/01/29/doug-ford-expected-to-make-announcement-at-noon-monday.html |title=Doug Ford seeks Conservative leadership amid party turmoil |newspaper=Toronto Star |first=Robert |last=Benzie |date=January 29, 2018 |access-date=January 29, 2018 |archive-date=March 2, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210302201407/https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2018/01/29/doug-ford-expected-to-make-announcement-at-noon-monday.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On January 31, 2018, Ford announced he would seek the PC nomination in Etobicoke North and run for the seat in the 2018 election.<ref>{{cite news|title=Ford to seek nomination for Etobicoke North|url=http://torontosun.com/news/provincial/ford-to-seek-nomination-for-etobicoke-north|access-date=January 31, 2018|newspaper=Toronto Sun|agency=Postmedia News|date=January 31, 2018|archive-date=February 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225135347/http://torontosun.com/news/provincial/ford-to-seek-nomination-for-etobicoke-north|url-status=live}}</ref> He was one of the four official candidates running for the PC leadership along with ], ], and ].<ref name="CTVnewleader"/> Following the sudden resignation of ] on January 25, 2018, the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario announced a new leader would need to be chosen before the ] in June. Ford was the first candidate to announce, on January 29, that he would seek the leadership of the party.<ref>{{cite news |title=Doug Ford says he will run in Ontario PC leadership race |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-announcement-etobicoke-ontario-pc-leader-1.4508622 |first=Muriel |last=Draaisma |newspaper=CBC News |date=January 29, 2018 |access-date=July 19, 2018 |archive-date=November 24, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201124064801/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-announcement-etobicoke-ontario-pc-leader-1.4508622 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2018/01/29/doug-ford-expected-to-make-announcement-at-noon-monday.html |title=Doug Ford seeks Conservative leadership amid party turmoil |newspaper=Toronto Star |first=Robert |last=Benzie |date=January 29, 2018 |access-date=January 29, 2018 |archive-date=March 2, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210302201407/https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2018/01/29/doug-ford-expected-to-make-announcement-at-noon-monday.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On January 31, 2018, Ford announced he would seek the PC nomination in Etobicoke North and run for the seat in the 2018 election.<ref>{{cite news|title=Ford to seek nomination for Etobicoke North|url=https://torontosun.com/news/provincial/ford-to-seek-nomination-for-etobicoke-north|access-date=January 31, 2018|newspaper=Toronto Sun|agency=Postmedia News|date=January 31, 2018|archive-date=February 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225135347/http://torontosun.com/news/provincial/ford-to-seek-nomination-for-etobicoke-north|url-status=live}}</ref> He was one of the four official candidates running for the PC leadership along with ], ], and ].<ref name="CTVnewleader"/>
Ford promised to represent the interests of Northern Ontario in Queen's Park. He called his opponents "insiders" and "political elites", who did not represent the interests of the residents of Northern Ontario like he could. Ford pledged several northern-focused policy initiatives including moving forward with resource development in the ] and reinstating the ]'s '']'' train service.<ref name="fordsudbury">{{cite news |url=http://www.thesudburystar.com/2018/02/28/i-love-sudbury-doug-ford-says |title='I love Sudbury', Doug Ford says |newspaper=Sudbury Star |first=Jim |last=Moodie |date=February 28, 2018 |access-date=March 13, 2018 |archive-date=February 28, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180228223518/http://www.thesudburystar.com/2018/02/28/i-love-sudbury-doug-ford-says |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford promised to represent the interests of Northern Ontario in Queen's Park. He called his opponents "insiders" and "political elites", who did not represent the interests of the residents of Northern Ontario like he could. Ford pledged several northern-focused policy initiatives including moving forward with resource development in the ] and reinstating the ]'s '']'' train service.<ref name="fordsudbury">{{cite news |url=https://www.thesudburystar.com/2018/02/28/i-love-sudbury-doug-ford-says |title='I love Sudbury', Doug Ford says |newspaper=Sudbury Star |first=Jim |last=Moodie |date=February 28, 2018 |access-date=March 13, 2018 |archive-date=February 28, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180228223518/http://www.thesudburystar.com/2018/02/28/i-love-sudbury-doug-ford-says |url-status=live }}</ref>


Ford called the Ontario health care system "broken" while relating the hospital experience of his brother Rob. He explained that Rob fell while being guided to a chair, and as the hospital was understaffed Doug had to rush down eleven floors to find security guards to help. He stated that the province should support transportation to allow Northern Ontarians to travel quickly and easily to the south to receive medical care and should increase provincial support for Ontario's small and medium-sized hospitals.<ref name="fordsudbury" /><ref>{{cite news |title=PC leader hopeful Doug Ford wades into Muskoka hospital debate |first=Alison |last=Brownlee |newspaper=Huntsville Forester |url=https://www.muskokaregion.com/news-story/8288213-pc-leader-hopeful-doug-ford-wades-into-muskoka-hospital-debate/ |date=February 27, 2018 |access-date=March 13, 2018 |archive-date=February 28, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180228100746/https://www.muskokaregion.com/news-story/8288213-pc-leader-hopeful-doug-ford-wades-into-muskoka-hospital-debate/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford called the Ontario health care system "broken" while relating the hospital experience of his brother Rob. He explained that Rob fell while being guided to a chair, and as the hospital was understaffed Doug had to rush down eleven floors to find security guards to help. He stated that the province should support transportation to allow Northern Ontarians to travel quickly and easily to the south to receive medical care and should increase provincial support for Ontario's small and medium-sized hospitals.<ref name="fordsudbury" /><ref>{{cite news |title=PC leader hopeful Doug Ford wades into Muskoka hospital debate |first=Alison |last=Brownlee |newspaper=Huntsville Forester |url=https://www.muskokaregion.com/news-story/8288213-pc-leader-hopeful-doug-ford-wades-into-muskoka-hospital-debate/ |date=February 27, 2018 |access-date=March 13, 2018 |archive-date=February 28, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180228100746/https://www.muskokaregion.com/news-story/8288213-pc-leader-hopeful-doug-ford-wades-into-muskoka-hospital-debate/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


Polling results ahead of the leadership ballot were mixed. A February Ipsos/Global News poll found that Ford had the most support of all the PC leadership candidates in Toronto and would beat the Liberals in the city by nine points, but a Mainstreet poll showed him doing only marginally better than the other PC candidates except Patrick Brown, and a Forum Research poll suggested he would have less support than the other candidates.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/grenier-ford-toronto-pcs-1.4535313 |title=Ontario PCs can win in Toronto with Doug Ford — and probably without him |first=Éric |last=Grenier |newspaper=CBC News |date=February 26, 2018 |access-date=July 19, 2018 |archive-date=June 1, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180601134504/http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/grenier-ford-toronto-pcs-1.4535313 |url-status=live }}</ref> Polling results ahead of the leadership ballot were mixed. A February ]/] poll found that Ford had the most support of all the PC leadership candidates in Toronto and would beat the Liberals in the city by nine points, but a Mainstreet poll showed him doing only marginally better than the other PC candidates except Patrick Brown, and a Forum Research poll suggested he would have less support than the other candidates.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/grenier-ford-toronto-pcs-1.4535313 |title=Ontario PCs can win in Toronto with Doug Ford — and probably without him |first=Éric |last=Grenier |newspaper=CBC News |date=February 26, 2018 |access-date=July 19, 2018 |archive-date=June 1, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180601134504/http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/grenier-ford-toronto-pcs-1.4535313 |url-status=live }}</ref>
]
On March 10, Ford won the PC leadership on the third ballot. The results were too close to call and there was a dispute over whether some votes were allocated to the correct electoral districts, so the announcement was not made at the originally scheduled convention. A news conference was held later that night after a recount was completed. Elliott conceded the next day and endorsed Ford as leader.<ref name="CTVnewleader">{{cite web|url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/ontario-pc-party-fails-to-announce-new-leader-as-review-underway-1.3837319#_gus&_gucid=&_gup=twitter&_gsc=yXZAi2Y|title=Doug Ford named new Ontario PC leader|publisher=Canadian Press|website=CTVnews.ca|date=March 10, 2018|access-date=March 11, 2018|archive-date=March 11, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180311023629/https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/ontario-pc-party-fails-to-announce-new-leader-as-review-underway-1.3837319#_gus&_gucid=&_gup=twitter&_gsc=yXZAi2Y|url-status=live}}</ref>


On March 10, Ford won the PC leadership on the third ballot. The results were too close to call and there was a dispute over whether some votes were allocated to the correct electoral districts, so the announcement was not be made at the originally scheduled convention. A news conference was held later that night after a recount was completed. Elliott conceded the next day and endorsed Ford as leader.<ref name="CTVnewleader">{{cite web|url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/ontario-pc-party-fails-to-announce-new-leader-as-review-underway-1.3837319#_gus&_gucid=&_gup=twitter&_gsc=yXZAi2Y|title=Doug Ford named new Ontario PC leader|publisher=Canadian Press|website=CTVnews.ca|date=March 10, 2018|access-date=March 11, 2018|archive-date=March 11, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180311023629/https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/ontario-pc-party-fails-to-announce-new-leader-as-review-underway-1.3837319#_gus&_gucid=&_gup=twitter&_gsc=yXZAi2Y|url-status=live}}</ref> On March 27, 2018, Ford was ] the party's candidate in ].<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-etobicoke-north-1.4595998 |title=Doug Ford to be acclaimed Etobicoke North Ontario PC Candidate |work=CBC News |access-date=March 28, 2018 |date=March 27, 2018 |archive-date=November 9, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109025220/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-etobicoke-north-1.4595998 |url-status=live }}</ref>


=== 2018 general election ===
On March 27, 2018, Ford was ] the party's candidate in ].<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-etobicoke-north-1.4595998 |title=Doug Ford to be acclaimed Etobicoke North Ontario PC Candidate |work=CBC News |access-date=March 28, 2018 |date=March 27, 2018 |archive-date=November 9, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109025220/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-etobicoke-north-1.4595998 |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== 2018 Ontario general election ===
{{main|2018 Ontario general election}} {{main|2018 Ontario general election}}
In March 2018, the Liberals tabled a pre-election budget in the provincial legislature which promised billions of dollars in new spending for free childcare and expanded coverage for ] but replaced the government's previous ] with a $6.7 billion ] projected to last until 2024–2025.<ref>{{cite news |title=Ontario budget 2018: Liberals run deficit, introduce new spending in pre-election budget |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/4111673/ontario-budget-spending-liberals-election/ |first1=Shawn |last1=Jeffords |first2=Paola |last2=Loriggio |access-date=April 7, 2018 |newspaper=Global News |agency=Canadian Press |date=March 28, 2018 |archive-date=April 8, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180408074530/https://globalnews.ca/news/4111673/ontario-budget-spending-liberals-election/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford called the budget a "spending spree".<ref name="watt">{{cite news |title=Veering left is right for Kathleen Wynne |first=Jamie |last=Watt |url=https://www.thestar.com/opinion/star-columnists/2018/04/01/jaime-watt-veering-left-is-right-for-wynne.html |access-date=April 7, 2018 |newspaper=Toronto Star |date=April 1, 2018 |archive-date=April 5, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180405185049/https://www.thestar.com/opinion/star-columnists/2018/04/01/jaime-watt-veering-left-is-right-for-wynne.html |url-status=live }}</ref> He said he would condense the Conservative platform adopted under former leader Patrick Brown, reducing "about ten percent of ",<ref name="globalplat">{{cite news |title=From sex-ed to a carbon tax: Here's where Doug Ford stands on big issues |first=Monique |last=Scotti |newspaper=Global News |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/4077129/doug-ford-policy-platform-big-issues/ |access-date=April 7, 2018 |date=March 12, 2018 |archive-date=April 8, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180408074139/https://globalnews.ca/news/4077129/doug-ford-policy-platform-big-issues/ |url-status=live }}</ref> into a five-point plan focusing on health, education, creating jobs, getting rid of the province's ] program for carbon emissions, and reducing electricity rates.<ref name="thestar_Follert_20180325"/><ref name="fordplatform">{{cite news |title=Doug Ford readies agenda, with eye to expanding pot, alcohol sales and dropping foreign buyers' real estate tax |first=Justin |last=Giovannetti |newspaper=The Globe and Mail |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-doug-ford-open-to-privatizing-liquor-sales-and-dropping-foreign-buyers/ |date=March 13, 2018 |access-date=March 13, 2018 |archive-date=March 14, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180314034158/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-doug-ford-open-to-privatizing-liquor-sales-and-dropping-foreign-buyers/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=5 things to know about new Ontario Tory leader Doug Ford |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-pc-leader-five-things-to-know-1.4571515 |newspaper=CBC News |agency=The Canadian Press |access-date=July 19, 2018 |archive-date=June 19, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619050058/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-pc-leader-five-things-to-know-1.4571515 |url-status=live }}</ref> In March 2018, the Liberals tabled a pre-election budget in the provincial legislature which promised billions of dollars in new spending for free childcare and expanded coverage for ] but replaced the government's previous ] with a $6.7 billion ] projected to last until 2024–2025.<ref>{{cite news |title=Ontario budget 2018: Liberals run deficit, introduce new spending in pre-election budget |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/4111673/ontario-budget-spending-liberals-election/ |first1=Shawn |last1=Jeffords |first2=Paola |last2=Loriggio |access-date=April 7, 2018 |newspaper=Global News |agency=Canadian Press |date=March 28, 2018 |archive-date=April 8, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180408074530/https://globalnews.ca/news/4111673/ontario-budget-spending-liberals-election/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford called the budget a "spending spree".<ref name="watt">{{cite news |title=Veering left is right for Kathleen Wynne |first=Jamie |last=Watt |url=https://www.thestar.com/opinion/star-columnists/2018/04/01/jaime-watt-veering-left-is-right-for-wynne.html |access-date=April 7, 2018 |newspaper=Toronto Star |date=April 1, 2018 |archive-date=April 5, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180405185049/https://www.thestar.com/opinion/star-columnists/2018/04/01/jaime-watt-veering-left-is-right-for-wynne.html |url-status=live }}</ref> He said he would condense the Conservative platform adopted under former leader Patrick Brown, reducing "about ten percent of ",<ref name="globalplat">{{cite news |title=From sex-ed to a carbon tax: Here's where Doug Ford stands on big issues |first=Monique |last=Scotti |newspaper=Global News |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/4077129/doug-ford-policy-platform-big-issues/ |access-date=April 7, 2018 |date=March 12, 2018 |archive-date=April 8, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180408074139/https://globalnews.ca/news/4077129/doug-ford-policy-platform-big-issues/ |url-status=live }}</ref> into a five-point plan focusing on health, education, creating jobs, getting rid of the province's ] program for carbon emissions, and reducing electricity rates.<ref name="thestar_Follert_20180325"/><ref name="fordplatform">{{cite news |title=Doug Ford readies agenda, with eye to expanding pot, alcohol sales and dropping foreign buyers' real estate tax |first=Justin |last=Giovannetti |newspaper=The Globe and Mail |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-doug-ford-open-to-privatizing-liquor-sales-and-dropping-foreign-buyers/ |date=March 13, 2018 |access-date=March 13, 2018 |archive-date=March 14, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180314034158/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-doug-ford-open-to-privatizing-liquor-sales-and-dropping-foreign-buyers/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=5 things to know about new Ontario Tory leader Doug Ford |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-pc-leader-five-things-to-know-1.4571515 |newspaper=CBC News |agency=The Canadian Press |access-date=July 19, 2018 |archive-date=June 19, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619050058/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-pc-leader-five-things-to-know-1.4571515 |url-status=live }}</ref>


Ford was critical of the ] components of the Ontario health curriculum which was updated in 2015, and stated that he believed it needed to be reviewed.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/doug-ford-sex-ed-curriculum-changes-1.4532400 |newspaper=CBC News |title=Ontario PC leadership hopeful Doug Ford vows to review province's sex-ed curriculum |first=Ieva |last=Lucs |date=February 13, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |archive-date=February 20, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180220023551/http://www.cbc.ca/news/doug-ford-sex-ed-curriculum-changes-1.4532400 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/ontario-sex-ed-curriculum-at-issue-in-pc-leadership-race-1.4534010 |newspaper=CBC News |title=Ontario sex ed curriculum at issue in PC leadership race |date=February 14, 2018 |first=Meagan |last=Fitzpatrick |access-date=March 3, 2018 |archive-date=March 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180306144325/http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/ontario-sex-ed-curriculum-at-issue-in-pc-leadership-race-1.4534010 |url-status=live }}</ref> He suggested that minors should be required to consult their parents before obtaining an ], and indicated he would allow the introduction of a ] requiring parental consent.<ref>{{cite news |newspaper=CBC News |date=March 5, 2018 |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ford-abortion-debate-pc-leadership-1.4562035 |title=Doug Ford says 'we've got to consult parents' when it comes to minors' access to abortion |quote=Ontario Progressive Conservative leadership hopeful Doug Ford has taken the controversial step of reopening the abortion debate, suggesting that parents of minors should be consulted before they can access the procedure. |access-date=March 5, 2018 |archive-date=March 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180306004124/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ford-abortion-debate-pc-leadership-1.4562035 |url-status=live }}</ref> Liberal campaign co-chair ] accused Ford of wading into "divisive ] issues" with his remarks.<ref name="socon">{{cite news |title=PC leadership candidate Doug Ford opens controversial abortion debate |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/03/05/pc-leadership-candidate-doug-ford-opens-controversial-abortion-debate.html |first=Rob |last=Ferguson |access-date=April 7, 2018 |newspaper=Toronto Star |date=March 5, 2018 |archive-date=April 8, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180408073406/https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/03/05/pc-leadership-candidate-doug-ford-opens-controversial-abortion-debate.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford was critical of the ] components of the Ontario health curriculum which was updated in 2015, and stated that he believed it needed to be reviewed.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-sex-ed-curriculum-changes-1.4532400 |newspaper=CBC News |title=Ontario PC leadership hopeful Doug Ford vows to review province's sex-ed curriculum |first=Ieva |last=Lucs |date=February 13, 2018 |access-date=March 3, 2018 |archive-date=February 20, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180220023551/http://www.cbc.ca/news/doug-ford-sex-ed-curriculum-changes-1.4532400 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/ontario-sex-ed-curriculum-at-issue-in-pc-leadership-race-1.4534010 |newspaper=CBC News |title=Ontario sex ed curriculum at issue in PC leadership race |date=February 14, 2018 |first=Meagan |last=Fitzpatrick |access-date=March 3, 2018 |archive-date=March 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180306144325/http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/ontario-sex-ed-curriculum-at-issue-in-pc-leadership-race-1.4534010 |url-status=live }}</ref> He suggested that minors should be required to consult their parents before obtaining an ], and indicated he would allow the introduction of a ] requiring parental consent.<ref>{{cite news |newspaper=CBC News |date=March 5, 2018 |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ford-abortion-debate-pc-leadership-1.4562035 |title=Doug Ford says 'we've got to consult parents' when it comes to minors' access to abortion |quote=Ontario Progressive Conservative leadership hopeful Doug Ford has taken the controversial step of reopening the abortion debate, suggesting that parents of minors should be consulted before they can access the procedure. |access-date=March 5, 2018 |archive-date=March 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180306004124/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ford-abortion-debate-pc-leadership-1.4562035 |url-status=live }}</ref> In terms of economic policy, Ford said he would revive manufacturing in Ontario by easing regulations, cutting taxes, and ensuring competitive electricity rates.<ref name="thestar_Follert_20180325">{{Cite news |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/03/25/doug-ford-says-he-will-cut-red-tape-to-revive-ontario-manufacturing-jobs.html |title=Doug Ford said he will cut red tape to revive Ontario manufacturing jobs |newspaper=Toronto Star |first=Jillian |last=Follert |date=March 25, 2018 |access-date=March 28, 2018 |language=en |archive-date=March 29, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180329054302/https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/03/25/doug-ford-says-he-will-cut-red-tape-to-revive-ontario-manufacturing-jobs.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford criticized the Liberal government for not proceeding quickly enough to develop the ], saying that he'd get on a bulldozer himself if necessary.<ref>{{cite news |title=Ontario PC leader plans to be in Northwestern Ontario early next week |url=http://www.kenoradailyminerandnews.com/2018/04/05/ontario-pc-leader-plans-to-be-in-northwestern-ontario-early-next-week |newspaper=Kenora Daily Miner and News |access-date=April 7, 2018 |date=April 5, 2018 |archive-date=April 5, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180405220529/http://www.kenoradailyminerandnews.com/2018/04/05/ontario-pc-leader-plans-to-be-in-northwestern-ontario-early-next-week |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/sudbury/doug-ford-northern-ontario-1.4579311 |title=Progressive Conservatives outline plan for northern Ontario |newspaper=CBC News |date=March 16, 2018 |access-date=July 19, 2018 |archive-date=August 1, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180801164751/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/sudbury/doug-ford-northern-ontario-1.4579311 |url-status=live }}</ref>
]
Ford announced at an April 3 rally in ], that if elected his government would allow ] to reallocate the $1.3 billion allocated for ] to roads or other infrastructure.<ref name="hamilton">{{cite news |title=City can spend LRT money on other projects, Ford says |url=https://www.thespec.com/opinion-story/8371595-city-can-spend-lrt-money-on-other-projects-ford-says/ |first=Andrew |last=Dreschel |date=April 4, 2018 |access-date=April 7, 2018 |newspaper=Hamilton Spectator |archive-date=April 8, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180408074012/https://www.thespec.com/opinion-story/8371595-city-can-spend-lrt-money-on-other-projects-ford-says/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Hamilton mayor ] responded saying that city council had already decided the issue and that cancelling the LRT would mean $100 million would "be thrown away".<ref name="hamrt">{{cite news |title=Doug Ford's $1.3B Hamilton campaign promise means more wild times for LRT: mayor |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/doug-ford-lrt-1.4607258 |first=Samantha |last=Craggs |access-date=April 7, 2018 |newspaper=CBC News |date=April 6, 2018 |archive-date=April 9, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180409162841/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/doug-ford-lrt-1.4607258 |url-status=live }}</ref>


Ford said he would revive manufacturing in Ontario by easing regulations, cutting taxes, and ensuring competitive electricity rates.<ref name="thestar_Follert_20180325">{{Cite news |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/03/25/doug-ford-says-he-will-cut-red-tape-to-revive-ontario-manufacturing-jobs.html |title=Doug Ford said he will cut red tape to revive Ontario manufacturing jobs |newspaper=Toronto Star |first=Jillian |last=Follert |date=March 25, 2018 |access-date=March 28, 2018 |language=en |archive-date=March 29, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180329054302/https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/03/25/doug-ford-says-he-will-cut-red-tape-to-revive-ontario-manufacturing-jobs.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford criticized the Liberal government for not proceeding quickly enough to develop the ], saying that he'd get on a bulldozer himself if necessary.<ref>{{cite news |title=Ontario PC leader plans to be in Northwestern Ontario early next week |url=http://www.kenoradailyminerandnews.com/2018/04/05/ontario-pc-leader-plans-to-be-in-northwestern-ontario-early-next-week |newspaper=Kenora Daily Miner and News |access-date=April 7, 2018 |date=April 5, 2018 |archive-date=April 5, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180405220529/http://www.kenoradailyminerandnews.com/2018/04/05/ontario-pc-leader-plans-to-be-in-northwestern-ontario-early-next-week |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/sudbury/doug-ford-northern-ontario-1.4579311 |title=Progressive Conservatives outline plan for northern Ontario |newspaper=CBC News |date=March 16, 2018 |access-date=July 19, 2018 |archive-date=August 1, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180801164751/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/sudbury/doug-ford-northern-ontario-1.4579311 |url-status=live }}</ref> Northern Ontario newspaper '']'' criticized Ford's remarks as being "simplistic" in regards to ] ] and ensuring Indigenous communities receive a share of any economic gains.<ref name="chron">{{cite news |url=http://www.chroniclejournal.com/opinion/editorials/a-bulldozer-is-not-a-plan/article_74ab82e4-3293-11e8-8517-7f8e6ebfab4a.html |title=A bulldozer is not a plan |newspaper=] |date=March 21, 2018 |access-date=July 19, 2018 |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328191038/http://www.chroniclejournal.com/opinion/editorials/a-bulldozer-is-not-a-plan/article_74ab82e4-3293-11e8-8517-7f8e6ebfab4a.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford and the PC Party received the endorsement of former Toronto mayor ] and former Mississauga mayor ]. In the media, Ford was compared to U.S. President ].<ref name="chron">{{cite news |url=https://www.chroniclejournal.com/opinion/editorials/a-bulldozer-is-not-a-plan/article_74ab82e4-3293-11e8-8517-7f8e6ebfab4a.html |title=A bulldozer is not a plan |newspaper=] |date=March 21, 2018 |access-date=July 19, 2018 |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328191038/http://www.chroniclejournal.com/opinion/editorials/a-bulldozer-is-not-a-plan/article_74ab82e4-3293-11e8-8517-7f8e6ebfab4a.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="theguardian_Kassam">{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/apr/30/doug-ford-ontario-conservative-trump-comparison-canada |title=Canada's Trump moment? Doug Ford rises in conservative party |newspaper=] |access-date=June 2, 2018 |date=April 30, 2018 |first=Ashifa |last=Kassam |location=Toronto |archive-date=June 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180606082706/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/apr/30/doug-ford-ontario-conservative-trump-comparison-canada |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="NYT_2018_Porter_TrumpFord">{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/02/world/canada/doug-ford-ontario.html |title=Will a Canadian Donald Trump Become Ontario's Leader? |first=Catherine |last=Porter |date=June 2, 2018 |access-date=June 2, 2018 |newspaper=The New York Times |archive-date=June 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180602215137/https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/02/world/canada/doug-ford-ontario.html |url-status=live }}</ref> '']'' described Ford as a "businessman turned anti-establishment politician", a "son of a wealthy entrepreneur" who "rails against elites" and "often shuns expertise", while noting a sharp difference with Trump by pointing out that during his 2014 Toronto mayoral campaign "Ford drummed up strong support among some of the city's most diverse neighbourhoods, suggesting his populist touch resonates with immigrants and racialized minorities who have traditionally self-identified as disenfranchised".<ref name="theguardian_Kassam"/> Ford rejected the comparisons while praising some of Trump's policies.<ref name="ctvnews_Dehaas_2018">{{cite news |url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/doug-ford-doesn-t-like-trump-comparison-but-praises-his-policies-1.3839493 |title=Doug Ford doesn't like Trump comparison but praises his policies |access-date=June 2, 2018 |newspaper=CTV News |date=May 12, 2018 |first=Josh |last=Dehaas |archive-date=June 12, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612162109/https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/doug-ford-doesn-t-like-trump-comparison-but-praises-his-policies-1.3839493 |url-status=live }}</ref>
], June 2018]]

Ford led the PC Party to a majority government in the general election held on June 7, 2018, taking 76 of 124 seats in the ],<ref>{{cite web |last1=Artuso |first1=Antonella |title=Doug Ford wins majority with promise to fix Ontario |url=https://torontosun.com/news/provincial/doug-ford-declared-winner |publisher=Toronto Sun |access-date=June 23, 2018 |date=June 8, 2018 |archive-date=June 23, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180623170256/http://torontosun.com/news/provincial/doug-ford-declared-winner |url-status=live }}</ref> including his own riding of ].<ref name="Résultats du soir de l’élection 2018">{{cite web |title=Unofficial Election Results: Etobicoke North |url=https://www.elections.on.ca/content/ngw/en/election-results/etobicoke-north.html |publisher=] |access-date=July 19, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180622173656/https://www.elections.on.ca/content/ngw/en/election-results/etobicoke-north.html |archive-date=June 22, 2018 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Ford had been PC leader for less than 100 days when his party won the election.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/4257112/deb-hutton-doug-ford-ontario-change/ |title=COMMENTARY: Doug Ford tapped into Ontario's overwhelming desire for change |first=Deb |last=Hutton |newspaper=Global News |access-date=June 9, 2018 |language=en |archive-date=June 12, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612105730/https://globalnews.ca/news/4257112/deb-hutton-doug-ford-ontario-change/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
]

Ford announced at an April 3 rally in ], that if elected his government would allow ] to reallocate the $1.3 billion allocated for ] to roads or other infrastructure.<ref name="hamilton">{{cite news |title=City can spend LRT money on other projects, Ford says |url=https://www.thespec.com/opinion-story/8371595-city-can-spend-lrt-money-on-other-projects-ford-says/ |first=Andrew |last=Dreschel |date=April 4, 2018 |access-date=April 7, 2018 |newspaper=Hamilton Spectator |archive-date=April 8, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180408074012/https://www.thespec.com/opinion-story/8371595-city-can-spend-lrt-money-on-other-projects-ford-says/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Hamilton mayor ] responded saying that city council had already decided the issue and that cancelling the LRT would mean $100 million would "be thrown away".<ref name="hamrt">{{cite news |title=Doug Ford's $1.3B Hamilton campaign promise means more wild times for LRT: mayor |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/doug-ford-lrt-1.4607258 |first=Samantha |last=Craggs |access-date=April 7, 2018 |newspaper=CBC News |date=April 6, 2018 |archive-date=April 9, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180409162841/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/doug-ford-lrt-1.4607258 |url-status=live }}</ref> ], a local Liberal MPP, criticized Ford's announcement saying "He paints himself as a responsible fiscal person but sees nothing wrong with writing a blank cheque for $1.2 billion."<ref name="hamrt"/>

In early April, the CBC published their analysis of aggregate polls showing that Ford and the Progressive Conservatives were ahead of the other parties averaging 42.1 percent support, compared to 27.2 percent for the governing Liberals, 23.4 percent for the NDP and 5.7 percent for the Greens<ref>{{cite news |last1=Grenier |first1=Éric |title=With nine weeks to go, the Ontario election is Doug Ford's to lose |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/grenier-ontario-poll-tracker-1.4603291 |access-date=April 7, 2018 |newspaper=CBC News |date=April 6, 2018 |archive-date=April 7, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180407015133/http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/grenier-ontario-poll-tracker-1.4603291 |url-status=live }}</ref> and with 11 Liberal MPPs announcing they would not be running for re-election or having already resigned their seats in the months leading up to the election.<ref>{{cite news|last=Crawley|first=Mike|title=11 Liberals won't run in Ontario election, and that's a problem for Kathleen Wynne|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-election-liberal-incumbents-not-running-1.4606871|access-date=April 7, 2018|newspaper=CBC News|date=April 7, 2018|archive-date=April 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180409184047/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-election-liberal-incumbents-not-running-1.4606871|url-status=live}}</ref>

Ford and the PC Party received the endorsement of former Toronto mayor ] and former Mississauga mayor ]. In explaining her choice not to support ]'s Liberals, McCallion said "As mayor, I never ran the city based on debt. I know the real Doug Ford. He's hardworking, he cares about people of all ages and can be trusted."<ref>{{cite web| url=https://www.mississauga.com/news-story/8628446-hazel-mccallion-endorses-pc-leader-doug-ford-and-liberal-finance-minister-charles-sousa/| title=Hazel McCallion endorses PC Leader Doug Ford and Liberal Finance Minister Charles Sousa| date=May 24, 2018| first=Ali| last=Raza| website=mississauga.com| access-date=June 10, 2018| archive-date=June 12, 2018| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612144228/https://www.mississauga.com/news-story/8628446-hazel-mccallion-endorses-pc-leader-doug-ford-and-liberal-finance-minister-charles-sousa/| url-status=live}}</ref> In the media, Ford was compared to U.S. President ].<ref name="chron"/><ref name="theguardian_Kassam">{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/apr/30/doug-ford-ontario-conservative-trump-comparison-canada |title=Canada's Trump moment? Doug Ford rises in conservative party |newspaper=] |access-date=June 2, 2018 |date=April 30, 2018 |first=Ashifa |last=Kassam |location=Toronto |archive-date=June 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180606082706/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/apr/30/doug-ford-ontario-conservative-trump-comparison-canada |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="NYT_2018_Porter_TrumpFord">{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/02/world/canada/doug-ford-ontario.html |title=Will a Canadian Donald Trump Become Ontario's Leader? |first=Catherine |last=Porter |date=June 2, 2018 |access-date=June 2, 2018 |newspaper=The New York Times |archive-date=June 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180602215137/https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/02/world/canada/doug-ford-ontario.html |url-status=live }}</ref> '']'' described Ford as a "businessman turned anti-establishment politician", a "son of a wealthy entrepreneur" who "rails against elites" and "often shuns expertise", while noting a sharp difference with Trump by pointing out that during his 2014 Toronto mayoral campaign "Ford drummed up strong support among some of the city’s most diverse neighbourhoods, suggesting his populist touch resonates with immigrants and racialized minorities who have traditionally self-identified as disenfranchised".<ref name="theguardian_Kassam"/> Ford rejected the comparisons while praising some of Trump's policies.<ref name="ctvnews_Dehaas_2018">{{cite news |url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/doug-ford-doesn-t-like-trump-comparison-but-praises-his-policies-1.3839493 |title=Doug Ford doesn't like Trump comparison but praises his policies |access-date=June 2, 2018 |newspaper=CTV News |date=May 12, 2018 |first=Josh |last=Dehaas |archive-date=June 12, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612162109/https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/doug-ford-doesn-t-like-trump-comparison-but-praises-his-policies-1.3839493 |url-status=live }}</ref>

Ford led the PC Party to a majority government in the general election held on June 7, 2018, taking 76 of 124 seats in the ],<ref>{{cite web |last1=Artuso |first1=Antonella |title=Doug Ford wins majority with promise to fix Ontario |url=http://torontosun.com/news/provincial/doug-ford-declared-winner |publisher=Toronto Sun |access-date=June 23, 2018 |date=June 8, 2018 |archive-date=June 23, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180623170256/http://torontosun.com/news/provincial/doug-ford-declared-winner |url-status=live }}</ref> including his own riding of ].<ref name="Résultats du soir de l’élection 2018">{{cite web |title=Unofficial Election Results: Etobicoke North |url=https://www.elections.on.ca/content/ngw/en/election-results/etobicoke-north.html |publisher=] |access-date=July 19, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180622173656/https://www.elections.on.ca/content/ngw/en/election-results/etobicoke-north.html |archive-date=June 22, 2018 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Ford had been PC leader for less than 100 days when his party won the election.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/4257112/deb-hutton-doug-ford-ontario-change/ |title=COMMENTARY: Doug Ford tapped into Ontario's overwhelming desire for change |first=Deb |last=Hutton |newspaper=Global News |access-date=June 9, 2018 |language=en |archive-date=June 12, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612105730/https://globalnews.ca/news/4257112/deb-hutton-doug-ford-ontario-change/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


==Premier of Ontario== ==Premier of Ontario==
Line 176: Line 172:


===Provincial finances=== ===Provincial finances===
Ford is a ]. He supports across-the-board tax reductions at all three levels of government. As a Toronto city councilor and mayoral candidate, Ford supported eliminating the car registration tax, eliminating the land transfer tax and keeping property tax increases below the rate of inflation,<ref>{{cite news|last1=Peat|first1=Don|date=22 September 2014|title=Doug Ford's 13 campaign promises|newspaper=Toronto Sun|url=https://torontosun.com/2014/09/22/doug-fords-13-campaign-promises/wcm/5b83ffcd-4d0a-41e9-bb8d-1473eb422966|access-date=September 5, 2018|archive-date=September 5, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180905175535/https://torontosun.com/2014/09/22/doug-fords-13-campaign-promises/wcm/5b83ffcd-4d0a-41e9-bb8d-1473eb422966|url-status=live}}</ref> and as leader of the Ontario PC Party and the premier, Ford promised to reduce provincial taxes. His proposals included eliminating cap and trade, eliminating the provincial income tax for minimum wage workers,<ref name="globalnews_Breen_20180417">{{cite news|last=Breen|first=Kerri|date=April 17, 2018|title=Reality check: The math behind Doug Ford's minimum wage plan|work=]|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/4149786/doug-ford-minimum-wage-plan-math/|access-date=December 9, 2018|archive-date=December 10, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181210064618/https://globalnews.ca/news/4149786/doug-ford-minimum-wage-plan-math/|url-status=live}}</ref> reducing middle-class income tax rates, reducing the corporate income tax,<ref name="macleans_DeRoche_20180502">{{cite news|last=De Roche|first=Gabe|date=May 2, 2018|title=Just how 'pro-business' is Doug Ford, really?|work=]|url=https://www.macleans.ca/opinion/just-how-pro-business-is-doug-ford-really/|access-date=December 9, 2018|archive-date=November 30, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181130180337/https://www.macleans.ca/opinion/just-how-pro-business-is-doug-ford-really/|url-status=live}}</ref> reducing the small business tax and reducing the gasoline tax.<ref name="theguardian_Kassam_2018" />


Ford's government cancelled the basic income pilot project.<ref>{{cite news|date=September 4, 2018|title=Ontario's Basic Income Pilot Project Has An End Date|work=]|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2018/09/04/ontario-basic-income-end_a_23516408/|access-date=September 5, 2018|archive-date=September 5, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180905110751/https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2018/09/04/ontario-basic-income-end_a_23516408/|url-status=live}}</ref> He opposes the laying off of government workers. He supports the use of attrition to eliminate government jobs that he believes are not needed.<ref>{{cite news|date=May 28, 2018|title=Ford wants to find $6B worth of 'efficiencies' without cutting jobs — is that even possible?|work=]|url=https://nationalpost.com/news/politics/ford-wants-to-find-6b-worth-of-efficiencies-without-cutting-jobs-is-that-even-possible|access-date=September 5, 2018}}</ref> Ford believes in hiring independent auditors to audit government spending.<ref>{{cite news|date=July 18, 2018|title=Reevely: Five-week audit to sort out government finances, Ford announces|publisher=Ottawa Citizen|url=https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/reevely-five-week-audit-to-sort-out-government-finances-ford-announces|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=September 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180909222050/https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/reevely-five-week-audit-to-sort-out-government-finances-ford-announces|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="platform">{{cite web|date=n.d.|title=Plan For The People|url=https://www.ontariopc.ca/plan_for_the_people|publisher=Ontario PC Party|language=en|access-date=September 5, 2018|archive-date=January 17, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190117132248/https://www.ontariopc.ca/plan_for_the_people|url-status=dead}}</ref> Jay Goldberg of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation labelled Ford's spending excessive and noted Ontario's large debt increases under his government.<ref name=":8">{{Cite web |last=Goldberg |first=Jay |date=2024-04-30 |title=Ford to blame for Ontario’s surging debt |url=https://niagaraindependent.ca/ford-to-blame-for-ontarios-surging-debt/ |access-date=2024-12-29 |website=The Niagara Independent |language=en}}</ref>
====2018 campaign promises====
Ford believes in reducing overall government spending. Ford proposed reducing government spending enough to pay for his proposed tax cuts and to balance the budget. He pledged to introduce a moratorium on wind and solar projects and to cancel subsidies for electric cars.<ref name="platform">{{cite web|date=nd|title=Plan For The People|url=https://www.ontariopc.ca/plan_for_the_people|publisher=Ontario PC Party|language=en|access-date=September 5, 2018|archive-date=January 17, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190117132248/https://www.ontariopc.ca/plan_for_the_people|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|date=12 July 2018|title=Doug Ford Cancels Electric Car Rebate So He Can Lower Gas Prices|language=en-CA|publisher=Huffington Post|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2018/07/12/ontario-electric-car-rebate-cancelled_a_23480717/|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=September 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180909221946/https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2018/07/12/ontario-electric-car-rebate-cancelled_a_23480717/|url-status=live}}</ref> He also promised to end the practice of giving subsidies and grants to businesses on a case-by-case basis and to cancel the Jobs and Prosperity Fund.<ref name="platform" /> Ford's government cancelled the basic income pilot project.<ref>{{cite news|date=4 September 2018|title=Ontario's Basic Income Pilot Project Has An End Date|work=]|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2018/09/04/ontario-basic-income-end_a_23516408/|access-date=September 5, 2018|archive-date=September 5, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180905110751/https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2018/09/04/ontario-basic-income-end_a_23516408/|url-status=live}}</ref> He opposes the laying off of government workers. He supports the use of attrition to eliminate government jobs that he believes are not needed.<ref>{{cite news|date=28 May 2018|title=Ford wants to find $6B worth of 'efficiencies' without cutting jobs — is that even possible?|work=]|url=https://nationalpost.com/news/politics/ford-wants-to-find-6b-worth-of-efficiencies-without-cutting-jobs-is-that-even-possible|access-date=September 5, 2018}}</ref> Ford believes in hiring independent auditors to audit government spending.<ref>{{cite news|date=18 July 2018|title=Reevely: Five-week audit to sort out government finances, Ford announces|publisher=Ottawa Citizen|url=https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/reevely-five-week-audit-to-sort-out-government-finances-ford-announces|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=September 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180909222050/https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/reevely-five-week-audit-to-sort-out-government-finances-ford-announces|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="platform" />

Ford opposes deficit spending and the accumulation of debt. He has criticized provincial governments for accumulating debt and for spending money on interest payments. Ford promised to balance the budget within his first term as premier.<ref name="platform" />


==== Liquor pricing ==== ==== Liquor pricing ====
Ford campaigned on "]" and reduced the minimum price of beer from $1.25 to $1.<ref>{{cite news|title=Doug Ford delivers 'buck-a-beer', but corner stores will have to wait {{!}} The Star|language=en|work=thestar.com|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/08/27/doug-ford-delivers-buck-a-beer-but-corner-stores-will-have-to-wait.html|access-date=September 5, 2018|archive-date=September 5, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180905065317/https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/08/27/doug-ford-delivers-buck-a-beer-but-corner-stores-will-have-to-wait.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The program saw low adoption by breweries and resellers.<ref>{{Cite web|date=December 18, 2018|title=Bye-bye buck a beer? Just 1 company left selling $1 bottles|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/just-one-company-left-selling-one-dollar-beer-1.4949315|url-status=live|website=CBC News|access-date=March 31, 2021|archive-date=November 12, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112034052/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/just-one-company-left-selling-one-dollar-beer-1.4949315}}</ref> As a result of lowering the price floor, a regulation that capped annual increases in pricing that was tied to the ] (CPI) was also eliminated and is projected to result in increased prices overall.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Collaco|first=Conrad|date=2020-03-03|title=Doug Ford's Buck-A-Beer plan made beer prices in Ontario go up, expert says|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/buck-a-beer-st-john-1.5483443|url-status=live|website=CBC News|access-date=March 31, 2021|archive-date=April 29, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210429025246/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/buck-a-beer-st-john-1.5483443}}</ref> Ford campaigned on "]" and reduced the minimum price of beer from $1.25 to $1.<ref>{{cite news|title=Doug Ford delivers 'buck-a-beer', but corner stores will have to wait {{!}} The Star|language=en|work=thestar.com|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/08/27/doug-ford-delivers-buck-a-beer-but-corner-stores-will-have-to-wait.html|access-date=September 5, 2018|archive-date=September 5, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180905065317/https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/08/27/doug-ford-delivers-buck-a-beer-but-corner-stores-will-have-to-wait.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The program saw low adoption by breweries and resellers.<ref>{{Cite web|date=December 18, 2018|title=Bye-bye buck a beer? Just 1 company left selling $1 bottles|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/just-one-company-left-selling-one-dollar-beer-1.4949315|url-status=live|website=CBC News|access-date=March 31, 2021|archive-date=November 12, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112034052/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/just-one-company-left-selling-one-dollar-beer-1.4949315}}</ref> As a result of lowering the price floor, a regulation that capped annual increases in pricing that was tied to the ] (CPI) was also eliminated and is projected to result in increased prices overall.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Collaco|first=Conrad|date=March 3, 2020|title=Doug Ford's Buck-A-Beer plan made beer prices in Ontario go up, expert says|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/buck-a-beer-st-john-1.5483443|url-status=live|website=CBC News|access-date=March 31, 2021|archive-date=April 29, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210429025246/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/buck-a-beer-st-john-1.5483443}}</ref>


==== Low-Income Individuals and Families Tax credit (LIFT)==== ==== Low-Income Individuals and Families Tax credit (LIFT)====
On November 15, 2018, Finance Minister ] tabled the 2018 Ontario Economic Outlook<ref name="FIN_ON_GOV_2018">{{cite journal|title=A Plan for the People — 2018 Ontario Economic Outlook and Fiscal Review, Background Papers|url=https://www.fin.gov.on.ca/fallstatement/2018/fes2018-en.pdf|journal=Ontario Economic Outlook and Fiscal Review|publisher=Ontario Ministry of Finance|pages=174|issn=1496-2829|access-date=November 23, 2018|archive-date=November 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181124055353/https://www.fin.gov.on.ca/fallstatement/2018/fes2018-en.pdf|url-status=live}} Primary source</ref> which included a tax cut representing as much as $850 a year for individuals and $1,700 for couples. LIFT would mean that a single person working full-time in minimum wage job, would pay no provincial personal income tax.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20181115">{{cite news|last=Stone|first=Laura|date=November 15, 2018|title=Ontario Tories promise low-income tax cut, scale back political fundraising rules in first fiscal outlook|newspaper=The Globe and Mail|location=Toronto|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-ontarios-fiscal-update-projects-deficit-at-145-billion-as-province/|access-date=December 9, 2018|archive-date=December 8, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181208075738/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-ontarios-fiscal-update-projects-deficit-at-145-billion-as-province/|url-status=live}}</ref> Minimum wage workers would still pay federal income tax which represents 75 percent of the tax rate.<ref name="globalnews_Breen_20180417" /> LIFT is a variation on Ford's promise to cut taxes on those making less than $30,000 a year.<ref name="globalnews_Breen_20180417" /> The amount of the tax credit applies only to minimum wage earners with full-time jobs. An individual who works part-time at $20 an hour but only earns $20,000 a year, would not be eligible.<ref name="globalnews_Breen_20180417" /> Economist Sheila Block said that a $15 minimum wage would represent about $1,100 more a year for low income earners than Ford's tax credit.<ref name="globalnews_Breen_20180417" /> In September 2018, Ford's government froze the minimum wage at $14 per hour and cancelled a planned increase.<ref name="ctvnews_Loriggio_20180926">{{cite news|last=Loriggio|first=Paola|date=September 26, 2018|title=Ontario government to halt minimum wage hike set to kick in next year|work=The Canadian Press via CTV News|url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/business/ontario-government-to-halt-minimum-wage-hike-set-to-kick-in-next-year-1.4110161|access-date=December 9, 2018|archive-date=December 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181209045622/https://www.ctvnews.ca/business/ontario-government-to-halt-minimum-wage-hike-set-to-kick-in-next-year-1.4110161|url-status=live}}</ref> On November 15, 2018, Finance Minister ] tabled the 2018 Ontario Economic Outlook<ref name="FIN_ON_GOV_2018">{{cite journal|title=A Plan for the People — 2018 Ontario Economic Outlook and Fiscal Review, Background Papers|url=https://www.fin.gov.on.ca/fallstatement/2018/fes2018-en.pdf|journal=Ontario Economic Outlook and Fiscal Review|publisher=Ontario Ministry of Finance|pages=174|issn=1496-2829|access-date=November 23, 2018|archive-date=November 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181124055353/https://www.fin.gov.on.ca/fallstatement/2018/fes2018-en.pdf|url-status=live}} Primary source</ref> which included a tax cut representing as much as $850 a year for individuals and $1,700 for couples. LIFT would mean that a single person working full-time in minimum wage job, would pay no provincial personal income tax.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20181115">{{cite news|last=Stone|first=Laura|date=November 15, 2018|title=Ontario Tories promise low-income tax cut, scale back political fundraising rules in first fiscal outlook|newspaper=The Globe and Mail|location=Toronto|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-ontarios-fiscal-update-projects-deficit-at-145-billion-as-province/|access-date=December 9, 2018|archive-date=December 8, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181208075738/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-ontarios-fiscal-update-projects-deficit-at-145-billion-as-province/|url-status=live}}</ref> Minimum wage workers would still pay federal income tax which represents 75 percent of the tax rate.<ref name="globalnews_Breen_20180417">{{cite news|last=Breen|first=Kerri|date=April 17, 2018|title=Reality check: The math behind Doug Ford's minimum wage plan|work=]|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/4149786/doug-ford-minimum-wage-plan-math/|access-date=December 9, 2018|archive-date=December 10, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181210064618/https://globalnews.ca/news/4149786/doug-ford-minimum-wage-plan-math/|url-status=live}}</ref> LIFT is a variation on Ford's promise to cut taxes on those making less than $30,000 a year.<ref name="globalnews_Breen_20180417" /> The amount of the tax credit applies only to minimum wage earners with full-time jobs. An individual who works part-time at $20 an hour but only earns $20,000 a year, would not be eligible.<ref name="globalnews_Breen_20180417" /> Economist Sheila Block said that a $15 minimum wage would represent about $1,100 more a year for low income earners than Ford's tax credit.<ref name="globalnews_Breen_20180417" /> In September 2018, Ford's government froze the minimum wage at $14 per hour and cancelled a planned increase.<ref name="ctvnews_Loriggio_20180926">{{cite news|last=Loriggio|first=Paola|date=September 26, 2018|title=Ontario government to halt minimum wage hike set to kick in next year|work=The Canadian Press via CTV News|url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/business/ontario-government-to-halt-minimum-wage-hike-set-to-kick-in-next-year-1.4110161|access-date=December 9, 2018|archive-date=December 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181209045622/https://www.ctvnews.ca/business/ontario-government-to-halt-minimum-wage-hike-set-to-kick-in-next-year-1.4110161|url-status=live}}</ref>

====Cap and trade====
On June 15, 2018, then premier-designate, Ford announced in a statement that one of the first actions of his newly formed cabinet would be to eliminate the province's ] program under the 2016 ''Climate Change Mitigation and Low-Carbon Economy Act'', a ] bill that "generated funds for ] and ],"<ref name="CELA_McClenaghan_20181207">{{citation |url=https://www.cela.ca/blog/2018-12-07/deregulation-redux-Ont-envl-laws-under-attack-again |title=Deregulation Redux: Ontario's Environmental Laws under Attack (Again) |first1=Theresa |last1=McClenaghan |first2=Richard D. |last2=Lindgren |work=] (CELA) |date=December 7, 2018 |access-date=December 10, 2018 |archive-date=December 14, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181214071230/https://www.cela.ca/blog/2018-12-07/deregulation-redux-Ont-envl-laws-under-attack-again |url-status=live }}</ref> put in place by the Liberal government.<ref name="Kassam2018TheGuardian">{{cite news |last=Kassam |first=Ashifa |date=July 3, 2018 |title=Doug Ford scraps carbon tax plan and sets up climate fight with Trudeau |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/jul/03/doug-ford-scraps-carbon-tax-plan-and-sets-up-climate-fight-with-trudeau |work=The Guardian |location=Toronto |access-date=November 20, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Ferguson |first=Rob |date=June 15, 2018 |title=Doug Ford says first job is to kill carbon cap-and-trade system |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/06/15/doug-ford-puts-gasoline-companies-on-notice-over-weekend-price-hikes.html |work=Toronto Star |location=Queen's Park |access-date=November 20, 2022}}</ref> As premier, through the ''Cap and Trade Cancellation Act, 2018'' which was tabled on July 25, 2018, Ford repealed cap and trade as part of his promise to lower gasoline prices by 10 cents per litre.<ref name="Kassam2018TheGuardian" /><ref name="OPO_2018">{{cite press release |url=https://news.ontario.ca/opo/en/2018/07/premier-doug-ford-announces-the-end-of-the-cap-and-trade-carbon-tax-era-in-ontario.html |title=Premier Doug Ford Announces the End of the Cap-and-Trade Carbon Tax Era in Ontario |date=July 3, 2018 |website=news.ontario.ca |access-date=July 11, 2018 |archive-date=July 10, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180710130116/https://news.ontario.ca/opo/en/2018/07/premier-doug-ford-announces-the-end-of-the-cap-and-trade-carbon-tax-era-in-ontario.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="theguardian_Kassam_2018">{{cite news |title=Doug Ford scraps carbon tax plan and sets up climate fight with Trudeau |quote=Decision to end program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions puts Ontario in line for showdown with federal government |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/jul/03/doug-ford-scraps-carbon-tax-plan-and-sets-up-climate-fight-with-trudeau |date=July 3, 2018 |access-date=December 9, 2018 |newspaper=] (UK) |first=Ashifa |last=Kassam |location=Toronto, Ontario |archive-date=December 10, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181210064809/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/jul/03/doug-ford-scraps-carbon-tax-plan-and-sets-up-climate-fight-with-trudeau |url-status=live }}</ref> A court later ruled that as Ontario's ''Environmental Bill of Rights'' required the government hold public consultations before removing the program, the government's unilateral decision broke the law.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Boisvert|first=Nick|date=October 11, 2019|title=Doug Ford government broke the law when it scrapped cap-and-trade, court rules|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-cap-and-trade-ruling-1.5317611|url-status=live|access-date=March 31, 2021|archive-date=November 11, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111202311/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-cap-and-trade-ruling-1.5317611}}</ref> As federal law requires provinces to have in place their own pollution pricing system, as a result of Ontario withdrawing from the ], a carbon tax was automatically imposed on the province.<ref name=":2">{{cite news|title=Ontario launching constitutional challenge of federal carbon tax plan|publisher=The Globe and Mail|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-ontario-launching-constitutional-challenge-of-federal-carbon-tax-plan-2/|access-date=September 11, 2018|archive-date=August 6, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180806203351/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-ontario-launching-constitutional-challenge-of-federal-carbon-tax-plan-2/|url-status=live}}</ref>


====Carbon pricing==== ==== Carbon tax ====
] on gas pumps in Ontario, mandated by the Ford government during the ].]]
On June 15, 2018, then premier-designate, Ford announced in a statement that one of the first actions of his newly formed cabinet would be to eliminate the province's ] program under the 2016 ''Climate Change Mitigation and Low-Carbon Economy Act'', a ] bill that "generated funds for ] and ],"<ref name="CELA_McClenaghan_20181207">{{citation |url=https://www.cela.ca/blog/2018-12-07/deregulation-redux-Ont-envl-laws-under-attack-again |title=Deregulation Redux: Ontario's Environmental Laws under Attack (Again) |first1=Theresa |last1=McClenaghan |first2=Richard D. |last2=Lindgren |work=] (CELA) |date=December 7, 2018 |access-date=December 10, 2018 |archive-date=December 14, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181214071230/https://www.cela.ca/blog/2018-12-07/deregulation-redux-Ont-envl-laws-under-attack-again |url-status=live }}</ref> put in place by the Liberal government.<ref name="Kassam2018TheGuardian">{{cite news |last=Kassam |first=Ashifa |date=3 July 2018 |title=Doug Ford scraps carbon tax plan and sets up climate fight with Trudeau |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/jul/03/doug-ford-scraps-carbon-tax-plan-and-sets-up-climate-fight-with-trudeau |work=The Guardian |location=Toronto |access-date=20 November 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Ferguson |first=Rob |date=15 June 2018 |title=Doug Ford says first job is to kill carbon cap-and-trade system |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/06/15/doug-ford-puts-gasoline-companies-on-notice-over-weekend-price-hikes.html |work=Toronto Star |location=Queen's Park |access-date=20 November 2022}}</ref> As premier, through the ''Cap and Trade Cancellation Act, 2018'' which was tabled on July 25, 2018, Ford repealed cap and trade as part of his promise to lower gasoline prices by 10 cents per litre.<ref name="Kassam2018TheGuardian" /><ref name="OPO_2018">{{cite press release |url=https://news.ontario.ca/opo/en/2018/07/premier-doug-ford-announces-the-end-of-the-cap-and-trade-carbon-tax-era-in-ontario.html |title=Premier Doug Ford Announces the End of the Cap-and-Trade Carbon Tax Era in Ontario |date=July 3, 2018 |website=news.ontario.ca |access-date=July 11, 2018 |archive-date=July 10, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180710130116/https://news.ontario.ca/opo/en/2018/07/premier-doug-ford-announces-the-end-of-the-cap-and-trade-carbon-tax-era-in-ontario.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="theguardian_Kassam_2018">{{cite news |title=Doug Ford scraps carbon tax plan and sets up climate fight with Trudeau |quote=Decision to end program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions puts Ontario in line for showdown with federal government |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/jul/03/doug-ford-scraps-carbon-tax-plan-and-sets-up-climate-fight-with-trudeau |date=July 3, 2018 |access-date=December 9, 2018 |newspaper=] (UK) |first=Ashifa |last=Kassam |location=Toronto, Ontario |archive-date=December 10, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181210064809/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/jul/03/doug-ford-scraps-carbon-tax-plan-and-sets-up-climate-fight-with-trudeau |url-status=live }}</ref> A court later ruled that as Ontario's ''Environmental Bill of Rights'' required the government hold public consultations before removing the program, the government's unilateral decision broke the law.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Boisvert|first=Nick|date=October 11, 2019|title=Doug Ford government broke the law when it scrapped cap-and-trade, court rules|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-cap-and-trade-ruling-1.5317611|url-status=live|access-date=March 31, 2021|archive-date=November 11, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111202311/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-cap-and-trade-ruling-1.5317611}}</ref> As federal law requires provinces to have in place their own pollution pricing system, as a result of Ontario withdrawing from the ], a carbon tax was automatically imposed on the province.<ref name=":2">{{cite news|title=Ontario launching constitutional challenge of federal carbon tax plan|publisher=The Globe and Mail|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-ontario-launching-constitutional-challenge-of-federal-carbon-tax-plan-2/|access-date=September 11, 2018|archive-date=August 6, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180806203351/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-ontario-launching-constitutional-challenge-of-federal-carbon-tax-plan-2/|url-status=live}}</ref>


Ford had warned that the imposition of the federal carbon tax would result in an increase in the price of gas in Ontario. According to fuel price analyst Patrick DeHaan, the average retail price of gas increased from 114.3 cents per litre before the carbon tax to "117.9 cents on April 1, the first day of the new tax" and 125.3 cents per litre in mid-July. There has been a 9.2 per cent drop in gasoline prices across Canada over the last year, according to the July 17, 2019 ] report which resulted in inflation falling nationally in June 2019 to 2.0 per cent. DeHaan said that in July 2018 the average price of gas in Ontario had been 130.1 cents per litre.<ref name="wellandtribune_Rubin_20190717">{{Cite news| last = Rubin| first = Josh| title = Doug Ford said gas would get more expensive because of the carbon tax — but it's still cheaper now than it was a year ago| work = Welland Tribune| access-date = July 19, 2019| date = July 17, 2019| url = https://www.wellandtribune.ca/news-story/9507844-doug-ford-said-gas-would-get-more-expensive-because-of-the-carbon-tax-but-it-s-still-cheaper-now-than-it-was-a-year-ago/| archive-date = July 20, 2019| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190720044319/https://www.wellandtribune.ca/news-story/9507844-doug-ford-said-gas-would-get-more-expensive-because-of-the-carbon-tax-but-it-s-still-cheaper-now-than-it-was-a-year-ago/| url-status = live}}</ref> He added that the retail price of gas reflects the drop in the price of oil prices from US$72 per barrel to US$60 a barrel in 2019 and is not related to the carbon tax.<ref name="wellandtribune_Rubin_20190717" /> As a result, ] funded through the program were cancelled,<ref>{{cite news|last=Bickis|first=Ian|date=13 July 2018|title=End of Ontario electric vehicle rebate program expected to hit sales|work=CTV News|agency=The Canadian Press|url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/business/end-of-ontario-electric-vehicle-rebate-program-expected-to-hit-sales-1.4012761|access-date=July 14, 2018|archive-date=July 14, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180714030903/https://www.ctvnews.ca/business/end-of-ontario-electric-vehicle-rebate-program-expected-to-hit-sales-1.4012761|url-status=live}}</ref> and a program known as the Green Ontario Fund, which was financed by the proceeds of cap-and-trade auctions and aimed to help homeowners reduce their carbon footprint and reduce hydro bills, was eliminated.<ref>{{Cite web|date=June 19, 2018|title=Incoming Premier Doug Ford quietly axes Green Ontario Fund|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/06/19/doug-ford-warns-gasoline-companies-to-pass-along-his-10-cent-a-litre-tax-cut.html|access-date=2021-03-30|website=thestar.com|language=en|archive-date=March 12, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210312081436/https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/06/19/doug-ford-warns-gasoline-companies-to-pass-along-his-10-cent-a-litre-tax-cut.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford had warned that the imposition of the federal carbon tax would result in an increase in the price of gas in Ontario. According to fuel price analyst Patrick DeHaan, the average retail price of gas increased from 114.3 cents per litre before the carbon tax to "117.9 cents on April 1, the first day of the new tax" and 125.3 cents per litre in mid-July. There has been a 9.2 per cent drop in gasoline prices across Canada over the last year, according to the July 17, 2019 ] report which resulted in inflation falling nationally in June 2019 to 2.0 per cent. DeHaan said that in July 2018 the average price of gas in Ontario had been 130.1 cents per litre.<ref name="wellandtribune_Rubin_20190717">{{Cite news| last = Rubin| first = Josh| title = Doug Ford said gas would get more expensive because of the carbon tax — but it's still cheaper now than it was a year ago| work = Welland Tribune| access-date = July 19, 2019| date = July 17, 2019| url = https://www.wellandtribune.ca/news-story/9507844-doug-ford-said-gas-would-get-more-expensive-because-of-the-carbon-tax-but-it-s-still-cheaper-now-than-it-was-a-year-ago/| archive-date = July 20, 2019| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190720044319/https://www.wellandtribune.ca/news-story/9507844-doug-ford-said-gas-would-get-more-expensive-because-of-the-carbon-tax-but-it-s-still-cheaper-now-than-it-was-a-year-ago/| url-status = live}}</ref> He added that the retail price of gas reflects the drop in the price of oil prices from US$72 per barrel to US$60 a barrel in 2019 and is not related to the carbon tax.<ref name="wellandtribune_Rubin_20190717" /> As a result, ] funded through the program were cancelled,<ref>{{cite news|last=Bickis|first=Ian|date=July 13, 2018|title=End of Ontario electric vehicle rebate program expected to hit sales|work=CTV News|agency=The Canadian Press|url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/business/end-of-ontario-electric-vehicle-rebate-program-expected-to-hit-sales-1.4012761|access-date=July 14, 2018|archive-date=July 14, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180714030903/https://www.ctvnews.ca/business/end-of-ontario-electric-vehicle-rebate-program-expected-to-hit-sales-1.4012761|url-status=live}}</ref> and a program known as the Green Ontario Fund, which was financed by the proceeds of cap-and-trade auctions and aimed to help homeowners reduce their carbon footprint and reduce hydro bills, was eliminated.<ref>{{Cite web|date=June 19, 2018|title=Incoming Premier Doug Ford quietly axes Green Ontario Fund|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/06/19/doug-ford-warns-gasoline-companies-to-pass-along-his-10-cent-a-litre-tax-cut.html|access-date=March 30, 2021|website=thestar.com|language=en|archive-date=March 12, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210312081436/https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/06/19/doug-ford-warns-gasoline-companies-to-pass-along-his-10-cent-a-litre-tax-cut.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


In July, Canadian Prime Minister ] said that provinces that do not adopt a ] mechanism by September 1, 2018, would be subject to a federal carbon tax of $20/tonne starting in January 2019.<ref>{{cite news|last=Crawley|first=Mike|date=July 6, 2018|title=What the carbon pricing future looks like in Doug Ford's Ontario|newspaper=CBC News|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-carbon-tax-doug-ford-justin-trudeau-1.4734971|access-date=July 17, 2018|archive-date=July 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180709230907/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-carbon-tax-doug-ford-justin-trudeau-1.4734971|url-status=live}}</ref> Ontario's "fiscal watchdog"<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20181115" /> and other analysts said that the province will have to refund an estimated $3 billion in carbon credits over four years purchased under the cap and trade program.<ref>{{cite news|last=Rieti|first=John|date=July 3, 2018|title=Doug Ford is officially ending Ontario's cap-and-trade plan, but what's next?|newspaper=CBC News|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-ending-cap-and-trade-1.4731954|access-date=July 17, 2018|archive-date=July 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180724213753/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-ending-cap-and-trade-1.4731954|url-status=live}}</ref> By mid-November 2018, ''The Globe and Mail'' reported that the Ontario government had "lost $2.7-billion in revenue" which included the $1.5-billion loss of revenue from the elimination of the cap-and-trade program.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20181115" /> In July, Canadian Prime Minister ] said that provinces that do not adopt a ] mechanism by September 1, 2018, would be subject to a federal carbon tax of $20/tonne starting in January 2019.<ref>{{cite news|last=Crawley|first=Mike|date=July 6, 2018|title=What the carbon pricing future looks like in Doug Ford's Ontario|newspaper=CBC News|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-carbon-tax-doug-ford-justin-trudeau-1.4734971|access-date=July 17, 2018|archive-date=July 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180709230907/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-carbon-tax-doug-ford-justin-trudeau-1.4734971|url-status=live}}</ref> Ontario's "fiscal watchdog"<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20181115" /> and other analysts said that the province will have to refund an estimated $3 billion in carbon credits over four years purchased under the cap and trade program.<ref>{{cite news|last=Rieti|first=John|date=July 3, 2018|title=Doug Ford is officially ending Ontario's cap-and-trade plan, but what's next?|newspaper=CBC News|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-ending-cap-and-trade-1.4731954|access-date=July 17, 2018|archive-date=July 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180724213753/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-ending-cap-and-trade-1.4731954|url-status=live}}</ref> By mid-November 2018, ''The Globe and Mail'' reported that the Ontario government had "lost $2.7-billion in revenue" which included the $1.5-billion loss of revenue from the elimination of the cap-and-trade program.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20181115" />
] on gas pumps in Ontario, mandated by the Ford government during the ]]]
Ford has worked with the premiers of ], ] and ] to fight the federal government's carbon tax legislation,<ref>{{cite news|date=December 21, 2018|title=Canadian federation is fractured, New Brunswick's rookie premier says {{!}} Globalnews.ca|language=en|publisher=CBC|agency=Global News|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/4785645/higgs-says-canadian-federation-is-fractured/|access-date=December 24, 2018|archive-date=December 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224122317/https://globalnews.ca/news/4785645/higgs-says-canadian-federation-is-fractured/|url-status=live}}</ref> and has also supported campaigns to repeal the carbon tax led by ] leader ] and Alberta ] leader ].<ref>{{cite news|date=October 30, 2018|title=Doug Ford, Andrew Scheer join forces against carbon tax {{!}} CBC News|language=en|work=CBC|publisher=CBC|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-andrew-scheer-1.4882637|access-date=December 24, 2018|archive-date=December 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181222204400/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-andrew-scheer-1.4882637|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford believes the federal '']'', which imposes a ] on provinces that do not have their own ] regime is unconstitutional.<ref name=":2" /> He committed $30 million to challenge the federal legislation, $4 million of which was spent on anti-carbon pricing advertisements including printing anti-carbon pricing stickers and imposing fines for gas station owners failing to display the stickers.<ref>{{Cite web|date=March 25, 2021|title='We're disappointed': Ontario will respect Supreme Court ruling on federal carbon pricing|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/we-re-disappointed-ontario-will-respect-supreme-court-ruling-on-federal-carbon-pricing-1.5362373|access-date=March 30, 2021|website=Toronto|language=en|archive-date=March 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210325221951/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/we-re-disappointed-ontario-will-respect-supreme-court-ruling-on-federal-carbon-pricing-1.5362373|url-status=live}}</ref> The province mandating the display of the stickers was later ruled to be itself unconstitutional, in violation of ] of the '']'', which guarantees business owners' ].<ref>{{Cite web|date=September 4, 2020|title=Ontario court rules Doug Ford's gas-pump stickers attacking carbon-pricing are 'unconstitutional'|url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2020/09/04/ontario-court-rules-doug-fords-gas-pump-stickers-attacking-carbon-pricing-are-unconstitutional.html|access-date=March 30, 2021|website=thestar.com|language=en|archive-date=April 24, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210424003208/https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2020/09/04/ontario-court-rules-doug-fords-gas-pump-stickers-attacking-carbon-pricing-are-unconstitutional.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


On March 25, 2021, the ] ruled that the constitution allows for the federal government to introduce pollution pricing on behalf of provinces who do not have their own regime.<ref>{{Cite web|date=March 25, 2021|title=Ontario government loses carbon-pricing fight and now wants to work with Ottawa to battle climate change|url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2021/03/25/ontario-government-loses-carbon-tax-fight-and-now-wants-to-work-with-ottawa-to-fight-climate-change.html|access-date=March 30, 2021|website=thestar.com|language=en|archive-date=March 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210325184744/https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2021/03/25/ontario-government-loses-carbon-tax-fight-and-now-wants-to-work-with-ottawa-to-fight-climate-change.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Austen |first=Ian |date=March 25, 2021 |title=Canada Supreme Court Rules Federal Carbon Tax Is Constitutional |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/25/world/canada/canada-supreme-court-carbon-pricing.html |work=] |access-date=November 21, 2022}}</ref>
Ford has worked with the premiers of ], ] and ] to fight the federal government's carbon tax legislation,<ref>{{cite news|date=21 December 2018|title=Canadian federation is fractured, New Brunswick's rookie premier says {{!}} Globalnews.ca|language=en|publisher=CBC|agency=Global News|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/4785645/higgs-says-canadian-federation-is-fractured/|access-date=December 24, 2018|archive-date=December 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224122317/https://globalnews.ca/news/4785645/higgs-says-canadian-federation-is-fractured/|url-status=live}}</ref> and has also supported campaigns to repeal the carbon tax led by ] leader ] and Alberta ] leader ].<ref>{{cite news|date=October 30, 2018|title=Doug Ford, Andrew Scheer join forces against carbon tax {{!}} CBC News|language=en|work=CBC|publisher=CBC|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-andrew-scheer-1.4882637|access-date=December 24, 2018|archive-date=December 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181222204400/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-andrew-scheer-1.4882637|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford believes the federal '']'', which imposes a ] on provinces that do not have their own ] regime is unconstitutional.<ref name=":2" /> He committed $30 million to challenge the federal legislation, $4 million of which was spent on anti-carbon pricing advertisements including printing anti-carbon pricing stickers and imposing fines for gas station owners failing to display the stickers.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-03-25|title='We're disappointed': Ontario will respect Supreme Court ruling on federal carbon pricing|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/we-re-disappointed-ontario-will-respect-supreme-court-ruling-on-federal-carbon-pricing-1.5362373|access-date=2021-03-30|website=Toronto|language=en|archive-date=March 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210325221951/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/we-re-disappointed-ontario-will-respect-supreme-court-ruling-on-federal-carbon-pricing-1.5362373|url-status=live}}</ref> The province mandating the display of the stickers was later ruled to be itself unconstitutional, in violation of ] of the '']'', which guarantees business owners' ].<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-09-04|title=Ontario court rules Doug Ford's gas-pump stickers attacking carbon-pricing are 'unconstitutional'|url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2020/09/04/ontario-court-rules-doug-fords-gas-pump-stickers-attacking-carbon-pricing-are-unconstitutional.html|access-date=2021-03-30|website=thestar.com|language=en|archive-date=April 24, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210424003208/https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2020/09/04/ontario-court-rules-doug-fords-gas-pump-stickers-attacking-carbon-pricing-are-unconstitutional.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


==== Debt ====
The ] later ruled that the constitution allows for the federal government to introduce pollution pricing on behalf of provinces who do not have their own regime.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-03-25|title=Ontario government loses carbon-pricing fight and now wants to work with Ottawa to battle climate change|url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2021/03/25/ontario-government-loses-carbon-tax-fight-and-now-wants-to-work-with-ottawa-to-fight-climate-change.html|access-date=2021-03-30|website=thestar.com|language=en|archive-date=March 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210325184744/https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2021/03/25/ontario-government-loses-carbon-tax-fight-and-now-wants-to-work-with-ottawa-to-fight-climate-change.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Austen |first=Ian |date=25 March 2021 |title=Canada Supreme Court Rules Federal Carbon Tax Is Constitutional |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/25/world/canada/canada-supreme-court-carbon-pricing.html#:~:text=the%20main%20story-,Canada%20Supreme%20Court%20Rules%20Federal%20Carbon%20Tax%20Is%20Constitutional,meets%20an%20important%20national%20need.&text=As%20a%20subscriber%2C%20you%20have,articles%20to%20give%20each%20month. |work=New York Times |access-date=21 November 2022}}</ref>
While Doug Ford promised a balanced budget in 2018, the Ontario debt has increased by $86 billion since Ford took office as of December 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ford’s fiscal flop |url=https://www.taxpayer.com/newsroom/ford%E2%80%99s-fiscal-flop |access-date=2024-12-28 |website=www.taxpayer.com |language=en}}</ref> This is an increase much greater than his predecessor's, whose budget Ford criticized.<ref name=":8" /> At the same time, Ontario's high income taxes have been called 'uncompetitive' by critics, with some also highlighting unnecessary spending by the government.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Munro |first=Gracy |date=Mar 27, 2024 |title=OPINION: Ford government again breaks promise to reduce taxes |url=https://torontosun.com/opinion/columnists/opinion-ford-government-again-breaks-promise-to-reduce-taxes |access-date=Dec 28, 2024 |website=Toronto Sun}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Ontario government chooses deficits and debt—again {{!}} Fraser Institute |url=https://www.fraserinstitute.org/commentary/ontario-government-chooses-deficits-and-debt-again |access-date=2024-12-28 |website=www.fraserinstitute.org |language=en}}</ref>


===Healthcare=== ===Healthcare===
] at the future site of the Windsor-Essex Acute Care Hospital, May 2022]]
In 2018, Ford expressed support for publicly funded healthcare and a belief that funding should be increased to create 30,000 additional long-term care beds.<ref>{{cite news|date=20 April 2018|title=Doug Ford promises to add long-term care beds, speaks out against supervised injection sites {{!}} Globalnews.ca|language=en|publisher=Global News|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/4157196/doug-ford-long-term-care-promise/|access-date=December 24, 2018|archive-date=December 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224122417/https://globalnews.ca/news/4157196/doug-ford-long-term-care-promise/|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2020, Ford's government spent $3.5 billion less on health care than budgeted.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Gray|first=Jeff|date=2021-09-24|title=Doug Ford faces rebuke over Ontario's COVID-19 pandemic spending|language=en-CA|work=The Globe and Mail|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-faces-rebuke-over-ontarios-covid-19-pandemic-spending/|access-date=2022-01-12|archive-date=January 13, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220113093045/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-faces-rebuke-over-ontarios-covid-19-pandemic-spending/|url-status=live}}</ref>
In 2018, Ford expressed support for publicly funded healthcare and a belief that funding should be increased to create 30,000 additional long-term care beds.<ref>{{cite news|date=April 20, 2018|title=Doug Ford promises to add long-term care beds, speaks out against supervised injection sites {{!}} Globalnews.ca|language=en|publisher=Global News|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/4157196/doug-ford-long-term-care-promise/|access-date=December 24, 2018|archive-date=December 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224122417/https://globalnews.ca/news/4157196/doug-ford-long-term-care-promise/|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2020, Ford's government spent $3.5 billion less on health care than budgeted.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Gray|first=Jeff|date=September 24, 2021|title=Doug Ford faces rebuke over Ontario's COVID-19 pandemic spending|language=en-CA|work=The Globe and Mail|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-faces-rebuke-over-ontarios-covid-19-pandemic-spending/|access-date=January 12, 2022|archive-date=January 13, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220113093045/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-faces-rebuke-over-ontarios-covid-19-pandemic-spending/|url-status=live}}</ref>


Ford believes that the provincial government should fully subsidize dental costs for low-income seniors.<ref>{{cite news|date=May 12, 2018|title=PCs promise $98M per year to help low-income seniors get dental care {{!}} CBC News|language=en|work=CBC|publisher=CBC|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ford-dental-seniors-income-low-1.4660745|access-date=December 24, 2018|archive-date=September 21, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921215221/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ford-dental-seniors-income-low-1.4660745|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2018, Ford said he believes that the provincial government should fully subsidize dental costs for low-income seniors,<ref>{{cite news|date=May 12, 2018|title=PCs promise $98M per year to help low-income seniors get dental care {{!}} CBC News|language=en|work=CBC|publisher=CBC|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ford-dental-seniors-income-low-1.4660745|access-date=December 24, 2018|archive-date=September 21, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921215221/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ford-dental-seniors-income-low-1.4660745|url-status=live}}</ref> something he enacted in 2019 as the ''Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program''.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dental care for seniors {{!}} ontario.ca |url=https://www.ontario.ca/page/dental-care-seniors |access-date=2024-12-28 |website=www.ontario.ca |language=en}}</ref> The federal government also later enacted the ''Canadian Dental Care Plan'', which partially subsidized dental care for qualifying individuals with a household income under 90k. Applications were open to seniors, kids and teens, and adults with qualifying disabilities as of December 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Canada |first=Service |date=2023-12-08 |title=Canadian Dental Care Plan |url=https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/dental/dental-care-plan.html |access-date=2024-12-28 |website=www.canada.ca}}</ref>

Ford has been accused of attempting to privatize healthcare in the province of Ontario.<ref name="D'Mello2022" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://london.ctvnews.ca/protesters-storm-stage-to-interrupt-private-doug-ford-rally-in-london-ont-1.5923507|title=Protesters storm stage to interrupt private Doug Ford Rally in London, Ont.|date=May 29, 2022|website=London}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thestar.com/opinion/letters_to_the_editors/2022/05/26/ford-is-starving-ontarios-health-care-system-and-privatizing-parts-of-it.html|title=Ford is starving Ontario's health-care system and privatizing parts of it|date=May 26, 2022|newspaper=Toronto Star}}</ref> In August 2022, Ford suggested additional private deliveries of healthcare in order to supplement existing public healthcare in response to a hospital staff shortage throughout Ontario.<ref name="D'Mello2022">{{cite news |last=D'Mello |first=Colin |date=17 August 2022 |title=Doug Ford pledges to deliver Ontario health care in ‘a different fashion’ |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/9050475/doug-ford-pledge-ontario-health-care/ |work=Global News |access-date=14 November 2022}}</ref>


==== Ontario Health ==== ==== Ontario Health ====
{{Main|Ontario Health (agency)}} {{Main|Ontario Health (agency)}}
The Ford government introduced the ] in 2019, with the goal of centralizing services.<ref>{{Cite news|date=2019-02-27|title=Massive health-care overhaul called 'biggest change' since medicare|language=en|work=The Hamilton Spectator|url=https://www.thespec.com/news/canada/2019/02/27/massive-health-care-overhaul-called-biggest-change-since-medicare.html|access-date=2021-03-04|issn=1189-9417|archive-date=February 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210222231010/https://www.thespec.com/news/canada/2019/02/27/massive-health-care-overhaul-called-biggest-change-since-medicare.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The province expects to save $350 million a year by 2021–22.<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|title=New Ontario Health super agency names president and CEO|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/6322285/ontario-health-super-agency-president-ceo-matthew-anderson/|access-date=2021-03-04|website=Global News|language=en-US|archive-date=February 26, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210226020605/https://globalnews.ca/news/6322285/ontario-health-super-agency-president-ceo-matthew-anderson/|url-status=live}}</ref> The Ford government introduced the ] in 2019, with the goal of centralizing services.<ref>{{Cite news|date=February 27, 2019|title=Massive health-care overhaul called 'biggest change' since medicare|language=en|work=The Hamilton Spectator|url=https://www.thespec.com/news/canada/2019/02/27/massive-health-care-overhaul-called-biggest-change-since-medicare.html|access-date=March 4, 2021|issn=1189-9417|archive-date=February 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210222231010/https://www.thespec.com/news/canada/2019/02/27/massive-health-care-overhaul-called-biggest-change-since-medicare.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The province expects to save $350 million a year by 2021–22.<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|title=New Ontario Health super agency names president and CEO|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/6322285/ontario-health-super-agency-president-ceo-matthew-anderson/|access-date=March 4, 2021|website=Global News|language=en-US|archive-date=February 26, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210226020605/https://globalnews.ca/news/6322285/ontario-health-super-agency-president-ceo-matthew-anderson/|url-status=live}}</ref>


The introduction of the agency has been criticized however, as similar approach was introduced in ], which has the highest per capita healthcare spending in the country,<ref>{{Cite web|last=Kupfer|first=Matthew|date=2019-01-19|title=Losing LHINs could reduce local power over health services, experts say|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/lhin-ontario-pc-government-1.4985029|url-status=live|access-date=March 31, 2021|archive-date=November 11, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111195634/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/lhin-ontario-pc-government-1.4985029}}</ref> with the NDP noting that "In ] and in Alberta, health centralization wasted billions of dollars",<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-03-28|title=Nickel Belt MPP France Gelinas calls on Conservatives to keep Cancer Care Ontario|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/sudbury/gelinas-cancer-care-1.5075637|url-status=live|access-date=March 31, 2021|archive-date=May 1, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190501052514/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/sudbury/gelinas-cancer-care-1.5075637}}</ref> and as wasting "time, money and energy on reshaping the health bureaucracy" rather than "specific solutions to well-identified problems."<ref>{{Cite news|title=Randall Denley: So-called 'super agency' not a magic cure for Ontario's health-care woes|url=https://nationalpost.com/opinion/randall-denley-so-called-super-agency-not-a-magic-cure-for-ontarios-health-care-woes|access-date=2021-03-23|newspaper=National Post|date=February 2019 |language=en-CA|archive-date=April 22, 2021|archive-url=http://wayback.vefsafn.is/wayback/20210422174858/https://nationalpost.com/opinion/randall%2Ddenley%2Dso%2Dcalled%2Dsuper%2Dagency%2Dnot%2Da%2Dmagic%2Dcure%2Dfor%2Dontarios%2Dhealth%2Dcare%2Dwoes|url-status=live|last1=Denley |first1=Randall }}</ref> The introduction of the agency has been criticized however, as similar approach was introduced in ], which has the highest per capita healthcare spending in the country,<ref>{{Cite web|last=Kupfer|first=Matthew|date=January 19, 2019|title=Losing LHINs could reduce local power over health services, experts say|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/lhin-ontario-pc-government-1.4985029|url-status=live|access-date=March 31, 2021|archive-date=November 11, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111195634/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/lhin-ontario-pc-government-1.4985029}}</ref> with the NDP noting that "In ] and in Alberta, health centralization wasted billions of dollars",<ref>{{Cite web|date=March 28, 2019|title=Nickel Belt MPP France Gelinas calls on Conservatives to keep Cancer Care Ontario|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/sudbury/gelinas-cancer-care-1.5075637|url-status=live|access-date=March 31, 2021|archive-date=May 1, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190501052514/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/sudbury/gelinas-cancer-care-1.5075637}}</ref> and as wasting "time, money and energy on reshaping the health bureaucracy" rather than "specific solutions to well-identified problems."<ref>{{Cite news|title=Randall Denley: So-called 'super agency' not a magic cure for Ontario's health-care woes|url=https://nationalpost.com/opinion/randall-denley-so-called-super-agency-not-a-magic-cure-for-ontarios-health-care-woes|access-date=March 23, 2021|newspaper=National Post|date=February 2019 |language=en-CA|archive-date=April 22, 2021|archive-url=http://wayback.vefsafn.is/wayback/20210422174858/https://nationalpost.com/opinion/randall%2Ddenley%2Dso%2Dcalled%2Dsuper%2Dagency%2Dnot%2Da%2Dmagic%2Dcure%2Dfor%2Dontarios%2Dhealth%2Dcare%2Dwoes|url-status=live|last1=Denley |first1=Randall }}</ref>

==== Bill 60 ====

Ford has been accused of attempting to privatize healthcare in the province of Ontario.<ref name="D'Mello2022" /><ref name=":5">{{Cite web|url=https://london.ctvnews.ca/protesters-storm-stage-to-interrupt-private-doug-ford-rally-in-london-ont-1.5923507|title=Protesters storm stage to interrupt private Doug Ford Rally in London, Ont.|date=May 29, 2022|website=London}}</ref><ref name=":6">{{Cite news|url=https://www.thestar.com/opinion/letters_to_the_editors/2022/05/26/ford-is-starving-ontarios-health-care-system-and-privatizing-parts-of-it.html|title=Ford is starving Ontario's health-care system and privatizing parts of it|date=May 26, 2022|newspaper=Toronto Star}}</ref> In August 2022, Ford suggested additional private deliveries of healthcare in order to supplement existing public healthcare in response to a hospital staff shortage throughout Ontario.<ref name="D'Mello2022">{{cite news |last=D'Mello |first=Colin |date=August 17, 2022 |title=Doug Ford pledges to deliver Ontario health care in 'a different fashion' |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/9050475/doug-ford-pledge-ontario-health-care/ |work=Global News |access-date=November 14, 2022}}</ref>

In May 2023, Ford's government passed Bill 60, also known as the ''Your Health Act'', to allow private clinics to perform more surgeries (including cataract surgeries, minimally invasive gynecological surgeries and eventually knee and hip replacements) and procedures (including MRI and CT scans) covered by the ] (OHIP). ] ] argued the legislation was necessary to reduce the province's large surgical backlog (according to the province, more than 200,000 Ontarians have been waiting for surgeries). Ford's government said new clinics must apply for a licence to operate and include thorough staffing plans "to protect the stability of doctors, nurses and other health-care workers at public hospitals" as part of their applications. To ensure that quality and safety standards are met at every clinic, the government declared that it will name "expert organizations" to collaborate with Ontario Health and the ]. If necessary, the ministry or the director of this third party may order an examination of a facility.<ref>{{cite web |last1=DeClerq |first1=Katherine |title=Ontario passes health-care bill allowing private clinics to conduct more surgeries |url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-passes-health-care-bill-allowing-private-clinics-to-conduct-more-surgeries-1.6389103 |website=CTV News |access-date=May 21, 2023 |date=May 8, 2023}}</ref><ref name=":4">{{cite web |last1= |first1= |title=Ontario passes health-reform bill that expands private delivery of care |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-health-care-bill-1.6835997 |website=CBC News |access-date=May 21, 2023 |date=May 8, 2023}}</ref>

The Ontario government was also found to be paying for-profit clinics more for publicly funded surgeries than they do for hospitals. Ford and his health minister have said that this is a cost-efficient method of expanding healthcare, but the chief of surgery at an Ontario hospital called the overpayment 'egregious'.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Crawley |first=Mike |date=Nov 14, 2023 |title=Doug Ford government paying for-profit clinic more than hospitals for OHIP-covered surgeries, documents show |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-doug-ford-private-clinic-surgeries-fees-hospitals-1.7026926 |website=CBC news}}</ref>

==== Emergency Room Closures ====
In 2023, Ontario saw 1,199 ER closures, mostly impacting rural areas.<ref name="ERClosures">{{Cite web |date=2023-12-05 |title=1,199 emergency room closures in Ontario this year: Report |url=https://london.ctvnews.ca/1-199-emergency-room-closures-in-ontario-this-year-report-1.6674204 |access-date=2024-12-28 |website=London |language=en}}</ref> This problem further increased in 2024, to nearly 15,000 hours of ER or urgent care closures. The main reasons cited were staff shortages, specifically of nurses, which combined accounted for 96% of closures. The Ford government pledged $44 million in July 2023 to combat the closures and $500 million in November 2024 for educating more nurses and specialized training for current ones.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ireton |first=Julie |date=Dec 2, 2024 |title=2024 worst year for Ontario ER closures, CBC analysis finds |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/data-analysis-er-closures-three-years-2024-worst-year-for-scheduled-closures-1.7396789 |access-date=Dec 28, 2024 |website=CBC news}}</ref>


===Education=== ===Education===
Immediately after taking office in 2018, Ford proposed to cut 3,475 Ontario teaching jobs over four years to save $292 million a year,<ref>{{Cite news|title=Ford government to cut more than 3,400 Ontario teaching jobs over four years|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-ford-government-warns-public-sector-it-is-considering-wage-hike-caps/?cu_id=5eWPDGcKCB|access-date=2021-03-30|archive-date=April 7, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190407222745/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-ford-government-warns-public-sector-it-is-considering-wage-hike-caps/?utm_medium=Newsletter&utm_source=Morning%20Update&utm_type=text&utm_content=MorningUpdate&utm_campaign=2019-4-5_7&cu_id=5eWPDGcKCB|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford also cancelled the Green Ontario Fund residential rebate program which included a $100 million fund for public school repair, free prescriptions to youth 24 and under, and an initiative to add indigenous peoples content to school curriculum,<ref>{{cite web|date=July 10, 2018|title=Every program Doug Ford's PCs have already cancelled or 'held' since being elected|url=http://dailyhive.com/toronto/program-ontario-government-cancelled-since-doug-ford-elected-2018|website=dailyhive.com|access-date=July 11, 2018|archive-date=July 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712031423/http://dailyhive.com/toronto/program-ontario-government-cancelled-since-doug-ford-elected-2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|first=Kyle|last=Edwards|date=July 11, 2018|title=Doug Ford cuts: Tracking the Ontario PC government's crackdown on spending|url=https://www.macleans.ca/politics/tracking-the-doug-ford-cuts/|access-date=2021-03-30|website=Macleans.ca|language=en|archive-date=March 1, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210301043636/https://www.macleans.ca/politics/tracking-the-doug-ford-cuts/|url-status=live}}</ref> and eliminated free tuition for low-income students (while reducing tuition fees by 10 per cent),<ref>{{Cite web|title=Ford government eliminates free tuition for low-income students - CityNews Toronto|url=https://toronto.citynews.ca/2019/01/17/ontario-tuition-cuts/|access-date=2021-03-30|website=toronto.citynews.ca|archive-date=February 28, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210228034131/https://toronto.citynews.ca/2019/01/17/ontario-tuition-cuts/|url-status=live}}</ref> Immediately after taking office in 2018, Ford proposed to cut 3,475 Ontario teaching jobs over four years to save $292 million a year,<ref>{{Cite news|title=Ford government to cut more than 3,400 Ontario teaching jobs over four years|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-ford-government-warns-public-sector-it-is-considering-wage-hike-caps/?cu_id=5eWPDGcKCB|access-date=March 30, 2021|archive-date=April 7, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190407222745/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-ford-government-warns-public-sector-it-is-considering-wage-hike-caps/?utm_medium=Newsletter&utm_source=Morning%20Update&utm_type=text&utm_content=MorningUpdate&utm_campaign=2019-4-5_7&cu_id=5eWPDGcKCB|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford also cancelled the Green Ontario Fund residential rebate program which included a $100 million fund for public school repair, free prescriptions to youth 24 and under, and an initiative to add indigenous peoples content to school curriculum,<ref>{{cite web|date=July 10, 2018|title=Every program Doug Ford's PCs have already cancelled or 'held' since being elected|url=https://dailyhive.com/toronto/program-ontario-government-cancelled-since-doug-ford-elected-2018|website=dailyhive.com|access-date=July 11, 2018|archive-date=July 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712031423/http://dailyhive.com/toronto/program-ontario-government-cancelled-since-doug-ford-elected-2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|first=Kyle|last=Edwards|date=July 11, 2018|title=Doug Ford cuts: Tracking the Ontario PC government's crackdown on spending|url=https://www.macleans.ca/politics/tracking-the-doug-ford-cuts/|access-date=March 30, 2021|website=Macleans.ca|language=en|archive-date=March 1, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210301043636/https://www.macleans.ca/politics/tracking-the-doug-ford-cuts/|url-status=live}}</ref> and eliminated free tuition for low-income students (while reducing tuition fees by 10 per cent),<ref>{{Cite web|title=Ford government eliminates free tuition for low-income students - CityNews Toronto|url=https://toronto.citynews.ca/2019/01/17/ontario-tuition-cuts/|access-date=March 30, 2021|website=toronto.citynews.ca|date=January 17, 2019 |archive-date=February 28, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210228034131/https://toronto.citynews.ca/2019/01/17/ontario-tuition-cuts/|url-status=live}}</ref>


On July 11, 2018, Ford announced that Ontario's health curriculum including ] components, updated by the previous government in 2015, would be reverted to the 1998 curriculum before the next school year.<ref>{{cite news|title=Ford government scraps controversial Ontario sex-ed curriculum|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-government-scraps-controversial-ontario-sex-ed-curriculum/|newspaper=The Globe and Mail|date=July 11, 2018 |access-date=July 13, 2018|archive-date=July 23, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180723211551/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-government-scraps-controversial-ontario-sex-ed-curriculum/|url-status=live|last1=Alphonso |first1=Caroline }}</ref> He pledged to create a new sex-education curriculum after consulting with parents and teachers.<ref name="Education Consultation">{{cite news|title=Consultations on school curriculum will be about more than just sex ed, Ford promises {{!}} The Star|language=en|work=thestar.com|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/08/22/doug-ford-warns-teachers-to-do-their-job-on-sex-education.html|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=September 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180909112152/https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/08/22/doug-ford-warns-teachers-to-do-their-job-on-sex-education.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford stated the sex-education curriculum needed to be changed because it was not age-appropriate and not based on enough consultation.<ref>{{cite web|title=Here are the 5 promises Doug Ford will likely tackle first in Ontario {{!}} CBC News|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-ontario-pc-government-priorities-1.4698429|website=CBC|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=September 10, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180910165839/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-ontario-pc-government-priorities-1.4698429|url-status=live}}</ref> He also opposes teaching students about ].<ref>{{cite web|date=11 July 2018|title=Doug Ford government scraps sex-ed curriculum for September|url=https://www.dailyxtra.com/doug-ford-government-scraps-sex-ed-curriculum-for-september-89444|website=Daily Xtra|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=September 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180909074008/https://www.dailyxtra.com/doug-ford-government-scraps-sex-ed-curriculum-for-september-89444|url-status=live}}</ref> On July 11, 2018, Ford announced that Ontario's health curriculum including ] components, updated by the previous government in 2015, would be reverted to the 1998 curriculum before the next school year.<ref>{{cite news|title=Ford government scraps controversial Ontario sex-ed curriculum|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-government-scraps-controversial-ontario-sex-ed-curriculum/|newspaper=The Globe and Mail|date=July 11, 2018 |access-date=July 13, 2018|archive-date=July 23, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180723211551/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-government-scraps-controversial-ontario-sex-ed-curriculum/|url-status=live|last1=Alphonso |first1=Caroline }}</ref> He pledged to create a new sex-education curriculum after consulting with parents and teachers.<ref name="Education Consultation">{{cite news|title=Consultations on school curriculum will be about more than just sex ed, Ford promises {{!}} The Star|language=en|work=thestar.com|publisher=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/08/22/doug-ford-warns-teachers-to-do-their-job-on-sex-education.html|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=September 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180909112152/https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/08/22/doug-ford-warns-teachers-to-do-their-job-on-sex-education.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford stated the sex-education curriculum needed to be changed because it was not age-appropriate and not based on enough consultation.<ref>{{cite web|title=Here are the 5 promises Doug Ford will likely tackle first in Ontario {{!}} CBC News|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-ontario-pc-government-priorities-1.4698429|website=CBC|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=September 10, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180910165839/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-ontario-pc-government-priorities-1.4698429|url-status=live}}</ref> However, his 2019 curriculum was largely similar to the 2015 version, save for allowing parents to opt-out.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Molina |first=Kimberley |date=Aug 21, 2019 |title=Revised sex-ed curriculum gets mixed reviews from parents |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/mixed-reaction-ontario-sex-ed-curriculum-1.5254757 |access-date=28 Dec 2024 |website=CBC news}}</ref>


Ford believes that financial literacy education should be expanded and included in school curricula,<ref>{{cite web|title=Doug Ford on Twitter|url=https://twitter.com/fordnation/status/1032376792865234944|website=Twitter|language=en|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=March 8, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308152904/https://twitter.com/fordnation/status/1032376792865234944|url-status=live}}</ref> and believes Ontario's math curriculum should drop ] and put a greater emphasis on ] and memorization of the ].<ref>{{cite news|title=Doug Ford says 'discovery math' is hurting Ontario students' grades. Should it be scrapped?|language=en|publisher=Global News|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/4200010/doug-ford-discovery-math-ontario-election/|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=September 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180909222626/https://globalnews.ca/news/4200010/doug-ford-discovery-math-ontario-election/|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford believes that financial literacy education should be expanded and included in school curricula,<ref>{{cite web|title=Doug Ford on Twitter|url=https://twitter.com/fordnation/status/1032376792865234944|website=Twitter|language=en|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=March 8, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308152904/https://twitter.com/fordnation/status/1032376792865234944|url-status=live}}</ref> and believes Ontario's math curriculum should drop ] and put a greater emphasis on ] and memorization of the ].<ref>{{cite news|title=Doug Ford says 'discovery math' is hurting Ontario students' grades. Should it be scrapped?|language=en|publisher=Global News|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/4200010/doug-ford-discovery-math-ontario-election/|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=September 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180909222626/https://globalnews.ca/news/4200010/doug-ford-discovery-math-ontario-election/|url-status=live}}</ref>


Ford used back-to-work legislation to end ] at ] prior to the start of the 2018–2019 school year.<ref>{{cite news|date=16 August 2018|title=Everything Doug Ford's PCs cancelled, changed and introduced since being elected|language=en|work=Daily Hive|url=http://dailyhive.com/toronto/doug-ford-pc-activity-since-elected-august-2018|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=September 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180909112048/http://dailyhive.com/toronto/doug-ford-pc-activity-since-elected-august-2018|url-status=live}}</ref> The strike had gone on for over four months, making it the longest post-secondary strike in Canadian history. Ford ordered all public universities and colleges in Ontario to develop free-speech policies that meet his government's expectations and stated that universities and colleges that do not comply will face funding reductions.<ref>{{cite news|date=16 August 2018|title=Doug Ford says Ontario postsecondary schools will require free-speech policies|language=en|publisher=The Globe and Mail|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-says-ontario-postsecondary-schools-will-require-free-speech/|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=September 3, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180903032824/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-says-ontario-postsecondary-schools-will-require-free-speech/|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford used back-to-work legislation to end ] at ] prior to the start of the 2018–2019 school year.<ref>{{cite news|date=August 16, 2018|title=Everything Doug Ford's PCs cancelled, changed and introduced since being elected|language=en|work=Daily Hive|url=https://dailyhive.com/toronto/doug-ford-pc-activity-since-elected-august-2018|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=September 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180909112048/http://dailyhive.com/toronto/doug-ford-pc-activity-since-elected-august-2018|url-status=live}}</ref> The strike had gone on for over four months, making it the longest post-secondary strike in Canadian history. Ford ordered all public universities and colleges in Ontario to develop free-speech policies that meet his government's expectations and stated that universities and colleges that do not comply will face funding reductions.<ref>{{cite news|date=August 16, 2018|title=Doug Ford says Ontario postsecondary schools will require free-speech policies|language=en|publisher=The Globe and Mail|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-says-ontario-postsecondary-schools-will-require-free-speech/|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=September 3, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180903032824/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-says-ontario-postsecondary-schools-will-require-free-speech/|url-status=live}}</ref>


By June 2019, the Ford government had removed or decreased funding for "school programs like after-school jobs for youth in low-income neighbourhoods", "tutors in classrooms", "daily physical activity for elementary students", "financial assistance for college and university students", "free tuition for low-income students", and "three satellite university campuses". He also "increased class sizes" and "cancelled three summer curriculum-writing sessions—one mandated by the ] and two others.<ref name="nationalobserver_Syed_20190607">{{Cite news|last=Syed|first=Fatima|date=June 7, 2019|title=Here's everything the Doug Ford government cut in its first year in office|work=]|url=https://www.nationalobserver.com/2019/06/07/news/heres-everything-doug-ford-government-cut-its-first-year-office|access-date=October 10, 2019|archive-date=October 19, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191019085838/https://www.nationalobserver.com/2019/06/07/news/heres-everything-doug-ford-government-cut-its-first-year-office|url-status=live}}</ref> By June 2019, the Ford government had removed or decreased funding for "school programs like after-school jobs for youth in low-income neighbourhoods", "tutors in classrooms", "daily physical activity for elementary students", "financial assistance for college and university students", "free tuition for low-income students", and "three satellite university campuses". He also "increased class sizes" and "cancelled three summer curriculum-writing sessions—one mandated by the ] and two others.<ref name="nationalobserver_Syed_20190607">{{Cite news|last=Syed|first=Fatima|date=June 7, 2019|title=Here's everything the Doug Ford government cut in its first year in office|work=]|url=https://www.nationalobserver.com/2019/06/07/news/heres-everything-doug-ford-government-cut-its-first-year-office|access-date=October 10, 2019|archive-date=October 19, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191019085838/https://www.nationalobserver.com/2019/06/07/news/heres-everything-doug-ford-government-cut-its-first-year-office|url-status=live}}</ref>


==== 2022 CUPE strike ====
Ford's government introduced Bill 28, known as the ''Keeping Students in Class Act'',<ref>{{Cite web |title=Keeping Students in Class Act, 2022 |url=https://www.ola.org/en/legislative-business/bills/parliament-43/session-1/bill-28 |access-date=2022-11-05 |website=Legislative Assembly of Ontario |language=en}}</ref> which was passed by the Legislative Assembly of Ontario on November 3, 2022, amid ongoing labour negotiations with the ] (CUPE).<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-11-03 |title=Ontario education workers set to strike Friday despite new law making it illegal |url=https://www.cp24.com/news/ontario-education-workers-set-to-strike-friday-despite-new-law-making-it-illegal-1.6136942 |access-date=2022-11-05 |website=CP24 |language=en}}</ref> CUPE had given notice of job action October 30 after negotiations broke down with the ], and would have been in a legal strike position on November 4.<ref name=":02">{{Cite web |date=October 30, 2022 |title=Ontario government tables legislation to prevent strike by CUPE education workers |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-education-cupe-strike-notice-1.6634686 |website=CBC News}}</ref> Bill 28 imposes a contract on CUPE, and makes it illegal to strike, setting fines of $4000 for workers.<ref name=":02" />


The bill invokes the ], shielding it from being struck down by the courts by allowing the bill to operate despite the right to collective bargaining granted by the '']''.<ref name=":02" /><ref name=":12">{{Cite web |title=Can anyone block Ontario legislation designed to impose a contract on education workers? {{!}} Globalnews.ca |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/9242876/can-anyone-block-ontario-education-contract-legislation/ |access-date=2022-11-05 |website=Global News |language=en-US}}</ref> The legislation was widely condemned, including by opposition parties, the ], Prime Minister ], ] ], the ], and other unions including those which had previously endorsed the PC Party.<ref name=":12" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=November 3, 2022 |title='They're wrong': Union that supported Ford speaks out in defense of education workers |url=https://toronto.citynews.ca/2022/11/03/ontario-education-workers-strike-cupe-liuna-doug-ford/ |access-date=2022-11-05 |website=toronto.citynews.ca}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-11-03 |title=Canadian bill would fine workers $4,000 for each day they strike |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/nov/03/ontario-doug-ford-strike-fine-bill-28-canada |access-date=2022-11-05 |website=the Guardian |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Patel |first=Raisa |date=1 November 2022 |title=Justin Trudeau says Doug Ford is ‘wrong’ to use legislation that would suspend school workers’ rights |url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/federal/2022/11/01/justin-trudeau-says-doug-ford-is-wrong-to-use-legislation-that-would-suspend-school-workers-rights.html |work=Toronto Star |access-date=13 November 2022}}</ref> Ford's government introduced Bill 28, known as the ''Keeping Students in Class Act'',<ref>{{Cite web |title=Keeping Students in Class Act, 2022 |url=https://www.ola.org/en/legislative-business/bills/parliament-43/session-1/bill-28 |access-date=November 5, 2022 |website=Legislative Assembly of Ontario |language=en}}</ref> which was passed by the Legislative Assembly of Ontario on November 3, 2022, amid ongoing labour negotiations with the ] (CUPE).<ref>{{Cite web |date=November 3, 2022 |title=Ontario education workers set to strike Friday despite new law making it illegal |url=https://www.cp24.com/news/ontario-education-workers-set-to-strike-friday-despite-new-law-making-it-illegal-1.6136942 |access-date=November 5, 2022 |website=CP24 |language=en}}</ref> CUPE had given notice of job action October 30 after negotiations broke down with the ], and would have been in a legal strike position on November 4.<ref name=":02">{{Cite web |date=October 30, 2022 |title=Ontario government tables legislation to prevent strike by CUPE education workers |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-education-cupe-strike-notice-1.6634686 |website=CBC News}}</ref> Bill 28 imposes a contract on CUPE, and makes it illegal to strike, setting fines of $4000 for workers.<ref name=":02" /> The bill invokes the ], shielding it from being struck down by the courts by allowing the bill to operate despite the right to collective bargaining granted by the '']''.<ref name=":02" /><ref name=":12">{{Cite web |title=Can anyone block Ontario legislation designed to impose a contract on education workers? {{!}} Globalnews.ca |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/9242876/can-anyone-block-ontario-education-contract-legislation/ |access-date=November 5, 2022 |website=Global News |language=en-US}}</ref> The legislation was widely condemned, including by opposition parties, the ], Prime Minister ], ] ], the ], and other unions including those which had previously endorsed the PC Party.<ref name=":12" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=November 3, 2022 |title='They're wrong': Union that supported Ford speaks out in defense of education workers |url=https://toronto.citynews.ca/2022/11/03/ontario-education-workers-strike-cupe-liuna-doug-ford/ |access-date=November 5, 2022 |website=toronto.citynews.ca}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=November 3, 2022 |title=Canadian bill would fine workers $4,000 for each day they strike |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/nov/03/ontario-doug-ford-strike-fine-bill-28-canada |access-date=November 5, 2022 |website=the Guardian |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Patel |first=Raisa |date=November 1, 2022 |title=Justin Trudeau says Doug Ford is 'wrong' to use legislation that would suspend school workers' rights |url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/federal/2022/11/01/justin-trudeau-says-doug-ford-is-wrong-to-use-legislation-that-would-suspend-school-workers-rights.html |work=Toronto Star |access-date=November 13, 2022}}</ref>


Despite the government's bill, CUPE went on strike anyway, resulting in province-wide school closures and protests in support of education workers.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ontario CUPE strike: Day 1 of strike draws in solidarity for education workers, backlash against Ford and $100,000 donation |url=https://ca.style.yahoo.com/ontario-strike-cupe-school-education-workers-110059340.html |access-date=2022-11-05 |website=ca.style.yahoo.com |language=en-CA}}</ref><ref name=":22">{{Cite web |date=November 4, 2022 |title=Strike or political protest? Ontario takes education workers' union to labour board amid Friday walkout |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/cupe-strike-education-ontario-schools-closed-1.6640386 |website=CBC News}}</ref> The government challenged CUPE at the ].<ref name=":22" /> On November 7, 2022, Ford announced that he would rescind Bill 28<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-11-07 |title=CUPE announces end to strike after Doug Ford offers to rescind education law |url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/cupe-announces-end-to-strike-after-doug-ford-offers-to-rescind-education-law-1.6141853 |access-date=2022-11-08 |website=CTV Toronto |language=en}}</ref> and that he would resume negotiations with CUPE.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Rushowy |first1=Kristin |last2=Benzie |first2=Robert |last3=Ferguson |first3=Rob |date=7 November 2022 |title=School back Tuesday as Doug Ford’s government and CUPE agree to return to bargaining |url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2022/11/07/ontario-government-union-await-labour-board-ruling-as-school-support-staff-strike-continues.html |work=Toronto Star |access-date=13 November 2022}}</ref> Following the strike, Ford said he did not regret his use of the notwithstanding clause in imposing the contract and said that it helped both sides "come to their senses".<ref>{{cite news |last1=Rushowy |first1=Kristin |last2=Benzie |first2=Robert |date=9 November 2022 |title=Doug Ford has no regrets about using notwithstanding clause, promises more pay for lowest-income CUPE workers |url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2022/11/09/doug-ford-says-mediator-has-told-him-to-be-quiet-after-star-revealed-cupe-contract-proposal.html |work=Toronto Star |access-date=13 November 2022}}</ref> Despite the government's bill, CUPE went on strike anyway, resulting in province-wide school closures and protests in support of education workers.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ontario CUPE strike: Day 1 of strike draws in solidarity for education workers, backlash against Ford and $100,000 donation |url=https://ca.style.yahoo.com/ontario-strike-cupe-school-education-workers-110059340.html |access-date=November 5, 2022 |website=ca.style.yahoo.com |date=November 4, 2022 |language=en-CA}}</ref><ref name=":22">{{Cite web |date=November 4, 2022 |title=Strike or political protest? Ontario takes education workers' union to labour board amid Friday walkout |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/cupe-strike-education-ontario-schools-closed-1.6640386 |website=CBC News}}</ref> The government challenged CUPE at the ].<ref name=":22" /> On November 7, 2022, Ford announced that he would rescind Bill 28<ref>{{Cite web |date=November 7, 2022 |title=CUPE announces end to strike after Doug Ford offers to rescind education law |url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/cupe-announces-end-to-strike-after-doug-ford-offers-to-rescind-education-law-1.6141853 |access-date=November 8, 2022 |website=CTV Toronto |language=en}}</ref> and that he would resume negotiations with CUPE.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Rushowy |first1=Kristin |last2=Benzie |first2=Robert |last3=Ferguson |first3=Rob |date=November 7, 2022 |title=School back Tuesday as Doug Ford's government and CUPE agree to return to bargaining |url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2022/11/07/ontario-government-union-await-labour-board-ruling-as-school-support-staff-strike-continues.html |work=Toronto Star |access-date=November 13, 2022}}</ref> Following the strike, Ford said he did not regret his use of the notwithstanding clause in imposing the contract and said that it helped both sides "come to their senses".<ref>{{cite news |last1=Rushowy |first1=Kristin |last2=Benzie |first2=Robert |date=November 9, 2022 |title=Doug Ford has no regrets about using notwithstanding clause, promises more pay for lowest-income CUPE workers |url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2022/11/09/doug-ford-says-mediator-has-told-him-to-be-quiet-after-star-revealed-cupe-contract-proposal.html |work=Toronto Star |access-date=November 13, 2022}}</ref>


=== Municipal affairs === === Municipal affairs ===
Line 235: Line 241:


Provincially, Ford's riding as a member of Provincial Parliament is in the Toronto suburb of Etobicoke. Provincially, Ford's riding as a member of Provincial Parliament is in the Toronto suburb of Etobicoke.

Doug Ford has also been accused of meddling in Toronto's politics, such as through his policies of Toronto-specific bike lane removals and shrinking the city council.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Newcombe |first=Kyle |date=2024-12-03 |title=Doug Ford vs. Toronto: The Province's Meddling in City Affairs |url=https://theinnisherald.com/doug-ford-vs-toronto-the-provinces-meddling-in-city-affairs |access-date=2024-12-29 |website=The Innis Herald |language=en-US}}</ref>


==== Toronto City Council ==== ==== Toronto City Council ====
{{Main|2018 Toronto municipal election}} {{Main|2018 Toronto municipal election}}
Ford believes that the constitution does not prevent provincial governments from changing the size of municipal councils, even after an election campaign has already begun.<ref name="notwithstanding">{{cite news|title=Premier Doug Ford defies court, vows to override Toronto council-cuts ruling|publisher=The Globe and Mail|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-premier-doug-ford-will-override-toronto-city-council-court-ruling/|access-date=September 11, 2018|archive-date=September 11, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180911194527/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-premier-doug-ford-will-override-toronto-city-council-court-ruling/|url-status=live}}</ref> After his government's legislation to reduce the number of wards represented at ] was ruled unconstitutional, Ford pledged to invoke ] of the ''Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms'' which would allow him to bypass the ''Charter'' and implement the legislation regardless of the court's ruling.<ref name="notwithstanding" /> The Ontario Court of Appeal later ruled in Ford's favour and allowed his modification to the council. The matter was further appealed by the ] and is now under consideration by the Supreme Court.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Supreme Court to revisit Ontario's decision to slash the size of Toronto city council|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/6735157/supreme-court-canada-revisit-ontario-slash-toronto-city-council/|access-date=2021-03-30|website=Global News|language=en-US|archive-date=February 27, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210227002502/https://globalnews.ca/news/6735157/supreme-court-canada-revisit-ontario-slash-toronto-city-council/|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford believes that the constitution does not prevent provincial governments from changing the size of municipal councils, even after an election campaign has already begun.<ref name="notwithstanding">{{cite news|title=Premier Doug Ford defies court, vows to override Toronto council-cuts ruling|publisher=The Globe and Mail|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-premier-doug-ford-will-override-toronto-city-council-court-ruling/|access-date=September 11, 2018|archive-date=September 11, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180911194527/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-premier-doug-ford-will-override-toronto-city-council-court-ruling/|url-status=live}}</ref> After his government's legislation to reduce the number of wards represented at ] was ruled unconstitutional, Ford pledged to invoke ] of the ''Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms'' which would allow him to bypass the ''Charter'' and implement the legislation regardless of the court's ruling.<ref name="notwithstanding" /> The Ontario Court of Appeal later ruled in Ford's favour and allowed his modification to the council. The matter was further appealed by the ] and is now under consideration by the Supreme Court.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Supreme Court to revisit Ontario's decision to slash the size of Toronto city council|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/6735157/supreme-court-canada-revisit-ontario-slash-toronto-city-council/|access-date=March 30, 2021|website=Global News|language=en-US|archive-date=February 27, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210227002502/https://globalnews.ca/news/6735157/supreme-court-canada-revisit-ontario-slash-toronto-city-council/|url-status=live}}</ref>


====Toronto transit==== ====Public transit====
Ford is proponent of subways. He believed that the provincial government should assume control over the ].<ref>{{cite news|date=31 August 2018|title=Ontario Moves Forward On Taking Over Toronto's Subways|language=en|publisher=HuffPost Canada|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2018/08/31/doug-ford-toronto-subways_a_23513938/|access-date=December 24, 2018|archive-date=December 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224121929/https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2018/08/31/doug-ford-toronto-subways_a_23513938/|url-status=live}}</ref> In February 2020, Ford and Toronto Mayor John Tory signed a preliminary agreement which would see the province assume "sole responsibility for the planning, design and construction" for ], the three-stop ] into ], the ] and the ] west extension.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Fox|first=Chris|date=2020-02-14|title=Toronto signs preliminary agreement with province for $30B transit plan|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/toronto-signs-preliminary-agreement-with-province-for-30b-transit-plan-1.4812271|access-date=2021-03-30|website=Toronto|language=en|archive-date=August 20, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200820092043/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/toronto-signs-preliminary-agreement-with-province-for-30b-transit-plan-1.4812271|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford is a proponent of subways. He believed that the provincial government should assume control over the ].<ref>{{cite news|date=August 31, 2018|title=Ontario Moves Forward On Taking Over Toronto's Subways|language=en|publisher=HuffPost Canada|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2018/08/31/doug-ford-toronto-subways_a_23513938/|access-date=December 24, 2018|archive-date=December 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224121929/https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2018/08/31/doug-ford-toronto-subways_a_23513938/|url-status=live}}</ref> In February 2020, Ford and Toronto Mayor John Tory signed a preliminary agreement which would see the province assume "sole responsibility for the planning, design and construction" for ], the three-stop ] into ], the ] and the ] west extension.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Fox|first=Chris|date=February 14, 2020|title=Toronto signs preliminary agreement with province for $30B transit plan|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/toronto-signs-preliminary-agreement-with-province-for-30b-transit-plan-1.4812271|access-date=March 30, 2021|website=Toronto|language=en|archive-date=August 20, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200820092043/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/toronto-signs-preliminary-agreement-with-province-for-30b-transit-plan-1.4812271|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2020, construction began on the ] line in Mississauga and Brampton,<ref>{{cite web | url=https://thepointer.com/article/2022-02-15/back-from-the-dead-ford-says-cancelled-hurontario-lrt-loop-in-mississauga-city-centre-will-be-built | title=Back from the dead: Ford says cancelled Hurontario LRT loop in Mississauga city centre will be built }}</ref> with all of the subway projects beginning procurement or construction by June 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |date=June 2024 |title=Market Update, June 2024 |url=https://www.infrastructureontario.ca/49ecb4/contentassets/955e0abd117640bea589e6fef9185fa5/io_marketupdate_june.pdf |website=Infrastructure Ontario}}</ref>

Ford has been criticized for failing to open the Eglinton Crosstown, which reached its 14th year of construction in 2024. This prompted calls for a public inquiry by local city councillors.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jeffords |first=Shawn |date=Oct 9, 2024 |title=2 Toronto councillors call for public inquiry into Eglinton Crosstown delays |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/2-toronto-councillors-call-for-public-inquiry-into-eglinton-crosstown-delays-1.7345972 |access-date=Dec 29, 2024 |website=CBC news}}</ref>


==== Municipal spending cuts ==== ==== Municipal spending cuts ====
In 2019, the government announced that it would adjust the cost-sharing arrangement for ] and ] resulting in retroactive cuts that would total $177 million a year and $1 billion cut in Toronto over 10 years.<ref>{{Cite web|title=$1B cut to Toronto Public Health called 'cruel' and 'short-sighted' - CityNews Toronto|url=https://toronto.citynews.ca/2019/04/18/1b-cut-to-toronto-public-health-called-cruel-and-short-sighted/|access-date=2021-03-31|website=toronto.citynews.ca|archive-date=April 10, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410221714/https://toronto.citynews.ca/2019/04/18/1b-cut-to-toronto-public-health-called-cruel-and-short-sighted/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{Cite web|last=Boisvert|first=Nick|date=2019-05-27|title=Doug Ford reverses retroactive funding cuts amid fierce pressure from Toronto|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ford-clark-monday-announcement-1.5150991|url-status=live|website=CBC News|access-date=March 31, 2021|archive-date=January 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210122194932/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ford-clark-monday-announcement-1.5150991}}</ref> The cuts were criticized by City officials including Medical Officer of Health Dr. ], ] chair ], and Mayor John Tory.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Toronto's top medical official clashes with Doug Ford's Ontario government over public health cuts|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/toronto/article-to-save-drug-users-says-eileen-de-villa-stop-the-war-on-drugs/|access-date=2021-03-31|archive-date=April 26, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190426010137/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/toronto/article-to-save-drug-users-says-eileen-de-villa-stop-the-war-on-drugs/|url-status=live}}</ref> The City projected that the additional financial pressure resulting from would result in further cuts to municipal services or increased taxes.<ref name=":3" /> Amidst backlash, Ford announced that the province would keep the cost-sharing arrangement and re-evaluate it at the end of the fiscal year.<ref name=":3" /> In 2019, the government announced that it would adjust the cost-sharing arrangement for ] and ] resulting in retroactive cuts that would total $177 million a year and $1 billion cut in Toronto over 10 years.<ref>{{Cite web|title=$1B cut to Toronto Public Health called 'cruel' and 'short-sighted' - CityNews Toronto|url=https://toronto.citynews.ca/2019/04/18/1b-cut-to-toronto-public-health-called-cruel-and-short-sighted/|access-date=March 31, 2021|website=toronto.citynews.ca|date=April 18, 2019 |archive-date=April 10, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410221714/https://toronto.citynews.ca/2019/04/18/1b-cut-to-toronto-public-health-called-cruel-and-short-sighted/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{Cite web|last=Boisvert|first=Nick|date=May 27, 2019|title=Doug Ford reverses retroactive funding cuts amid fierce pressure from Toronto|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ford-clark-monday-announcement-1.5150991|url-status=live|website=CBC News|access-date=March 31, 2021|archive-date=January 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210122194932/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ford-clark-monday-announcement-1.5150991}}</ref> The cuts were criticized by City officials including Medical Officer of Health Dr. ], ] chair ], and Mayor John Tory.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Toronto's top medical official clashes with Doug Ford's Ontario government over public health cuts|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/toronto/article-to-save-drug-users-says-eileen-de-villa-stop-the-war-on-drugs/|access-date=March 31, 2021|archive-date=April 26, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190426010137/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/toronto/article-to-save-drug-users-says-eileen-de-villa-stop-the-war-on-drugs/|url-status=live}}</ref> The City projected that the additional financial pressure resulting from would result in further cuts to municipal services or increased taxes.<ref name=":3" /> Amidst backlash, Ford announced that the province would keep the cost-sharing arrangement and re-evaluate it at the end of the fiscal year.<ref name=":3" />


====Bill 66==== ====Bill 66====
On December 6, 2018, the Ford government tabled its omnibus bill, Bill 66. The bill allows municipalities to request a provincial government override of any regulations that currently deter businesses from locating in the region.<ref name="CTVNews_Jeffords_2018">{{cite news|last=Jeffords|first=Shawn|date=December 7, 2018|title=New PC bill could open Greenbelt to development, critics say|publisher=CTV News via the Canadian Press|location=Toronto, Ontario|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/new-pc-bill-could-open-greenbelt-to-development-critics-say-1.4209698|access-date=December 9, 2018|archive-date=December 8, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181208115925/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/new-pc-bill-could-open-greenbelt-to-development-critics-say-1.4209698|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="CBC_Rieti_201812007">{{cite news|last=Rieti|first=John|title=Ford's pro-business bill puts the Greenbelt at risk, Green Party says|publisher=CBC News|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/green-party-attacks-ford-omnibus-bill-1.4936797|access-date=December 9, 2018|archive-date=December 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181209083513/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/green-party-attacks-ford-omnibus-bill-1.4936797|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Bill_66">{{citation|title=Bill 66 An Act to restore Ontario's competitiveness by amending or repealing certain Acts|date=December 6, 2018|url=https://www.ola.org/sites/default/files/node-files/bill/document/pdf/2018/2018-12/b066_e.pdf|access-date=December 9, 2018|archive-date=December 10, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181210063414/https://www.ola.org/sites/default/files/node-files/bill/document/pdf/2018/2018-12/b066_e.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford's political opponents and groups that promote environmental protection raised concerns that the "opaque", "vague language" in Bill 66 could mean clean water regulations and other bylaws that protect environmentally sensitive land could be bypassed.<ref name="CTVNews_Jeffords_2018" /> According to a December 7 ''Globe and Mail'' article, under Bill 66, municipalities would only be required to obtain permission from the ], to override sections of the 2006 '']'', the 2015 ''Great Lakes Protection Act'', the 2006 ''Lake Simcoe Protection Act'', and the 2005 '']''.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Gray_20181207">{{cite news|last=Gray|first=Jeff|date=December 7, 2018|title=Ontario bill would open up Greenbelt, activists warn|newspaper=The Globe and Mail|location=Toronto|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-ontario-bill-would-open-up-greenbelt-activists-warn/|access-date=December 9, 2018|archive-date=December 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181209053705/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-ontario-bill-would-open-up-greenbelt-activists-warn/|url-status=live}}</ref> On December 6, 2018, the Ford government tabled its omnibus bill, Bill 66. The bill allows municipalities to request a provincial government override of any regulations that currently deter businesses from locating in the region.<ref name="CTVNews_Jeffords_2018">{{cite news|last=Jeffords|first=Shawn|date=December 7, 2018|title=New PC bill could open Greenbelt to development, critics say|publisher=CTV News via the Canadian Press|location=Toronto, Ontario|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/new-pc-bill-could-open-greenbelt-to-development-critics-say-1.4209698|access-date=December 9, 2018|archive-date=December 8, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181208115925/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/new-pc-bill-could-open-greenbelt-to-development-critics-say-1.4209698|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="CBC_Rieti_201812007">{{cite news|last=Rieti|first=John|title=Ford's pro-business bill puts the Greenbelt at risk, Green Party says|publisher=CBC News|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/green-party-attacks-ford-omnibus-bill-1.4936797|access-date=December 9, 2018|archive-date=December 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181209083513/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/green-party-attacks-ford-omnibus-bill-1.4936797|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Bill_66">{{citation|title=Bill 66 An Act to restore Ontario's competitiveness by amending or repealing certain Acts|date=December 6, 2018|url=https://www.ola.org/sites/default/files/node-files/bill/document/pdf/2018/2018-12/b066_e.pdf|access-date=December 9, 2018|archive-date=December 10, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181210063414/https://www.ola.org/sites/default/files/node-files/bill/document/pdf/2018/2018-12/b066_e.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford's political opponents and groups that promote environmental protection raised concerns that the "opaque", "vague language" in Bill 66 could mean clean water regulations and other bylaws that protect environmentally sensitive land could be bypassed.<ref name="CTVNews_Jeffords_2018" /> According to a December 7 ''Globe and Mail'' article, under Bill 66, municipalities would only be required to obtain permission from the ], to override sections of the 2006 '']'', the 2015 ''Great Lakes Protection Act'', the 2006 ''Lake Simcoe Protection Act'', and the 2005 '']''.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Gray_20181207">{{cite news|last=Gray|first=Jeff|date=December 7, 2018|title=Ontario bill would open up Greenbelt, activists warn|newspaper=The Globe and Mail|location=Toronto|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-ontario-bill-would-open-up-greenbelt-activists-warn/|access-date=December 9, 2018|archive-date=December 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181209053705/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-ontario-bill-would-open-up-greenbelt-activists-warn/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==== Strong-mayor powers====

In September 2022, Ford's government passed the '']'' that grants extra powers to the ] and the ] within their ]s. The Act grants the mayors of ] and ] direct control over the drafting of city budgets; the appointments and dismissals of their ]s and department leaders (except police chiefs, fire chiefs, or auditors general); ]es over laws that may conflict with provincial priorities (which may be overturned if a ] of two-thirds of city councillors voted to do so); and the creation and reorganisation of municipal administrative departments.<ref name="CBC how">{{cite web | title=How will Toronto and Ottawa's new 'strong mayor' powers work? | website=CBC | date=October 5, 2022 | url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-ottawa-strong-mayor-1.6597520 | access-date=October 23, 2022}}</ref><ref name="CBC in a year">{{cite web | title=Strong mayor powers coming to more large Ontario cities in a year, Ford says - CBC News | website=CBC News|author=The Canadian Press | date=October 17, 2022 | url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/strong-mayor-powers-expanding-ford-1.6619221 | access-date=October 23, 2022}}</ref>

==== Greenbelt controversy ====
{{main|Greenbelt scandal}}
Before Ford was first elected in 2018, a video emerged of him informing developers that he would "open up a big chunk of the ]" if elected.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://nationalpost.com/news/politics/doug-ford-says-he-would-open-up-greenbelt-for-some-development |title=Video shows Doug Ford saying he would open up 'big chunk' of Toronto-area Greenbelt for housing development |website=National Post |first=Shawn |last=Jeffords |publisher=The Canadian Press |date=April 30, 2018 |access-date=May 10, 2024}}</ref> After a public outcry, Ford said he would replace any removed land and that his goal was to increase supply to reduce housing costs. Pre-election, Ford also pledged not to remove Rent Control, stating, "I have listened to the people, and I won't take rent control away from anyone. Period. When it comes to rent control, we're going to maintain the status quo." After taking office, Rent Control for all newly built or newly converted rental units was removed as a measure to incentivize developers to build more apartments, to help landlords cover costs and make profit, and to keep condo investors buying.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/rent-control-reforms-could-mark-return-to-sky-high-increases-for-toronto-tenants-advocates-warn-1.4908665 |title=Rent control reforms could mark return to sky-high increases for Toronto tenants, advocates warn |website=CBC News |date=November 16, 2018 |first=Lauren |last=Pelley |access-date=May 10, 2024}}</ref> After re-election in 2022, and amidst a worsening housing and affordability crisis, Ford became embroiled in controversy over properties released from Greenbelt protection.<ref>{{Cite web |date=November 12, 2022 |title=Ontario just got 14,000 hectares of land to develop — so why does Doug Ford want the Greenbelt too? |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-just-got-14-000-hectares-of-land-to-develop-so-why-does-doug-ford-want-the-greenbelt-too-1.6647857 |access-date=December 11, 2022}}</ref> One developer had purchased property shortly before the decision was made. A total of 7,400 acres of Greenbelt land was removed, while 9,400 acres of land was added.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-greenbelt-ford-1.6933921 |title=Ontario premier won't back away from plans to build on protected Greenbelt|publisher=cbc.ca|date=August 11, 2023}}</ref>

Ford has disagreed with criticism regarding his friendships with developers, saying, "no one can influence the Fords".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/absolutely-ridiculous-ford-rebukes-questions-on-daughter-s-stag-attended-by-developers-1.6274944|title='Absolutely ridiculous': Ford rebukes questions on daughter's stag attended by developers|date=February 15, 2023|website=Toronto|accessdate=March 11, 2023}}</ref> Specifically, he called questions about the optics of developers attending his daughter's pre-wedding party in August 2022, "ridiculous". Ford sought clearance for the event from the Integrity Commissioner in January 2023.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/9457569/ontario-premier-doug-ford-stag-doe/|title=Integrity commissioner clears Doug Ford after developers attend daughter's stag and doe &#124; Globalnews.ca|website=Global News|accessdate=March 11, 2023}}</ref> In February 2023, the Ontario Provincial Police anti-rackets branch were still looking into complaints about his government's decision to open up a portion of the Greenbelt for development.<ref> CBC</ref> The OPP asked the RCMP to take over the file in August 2023, in order to avoid any perceived conflict of interest.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/rcmp-probing-ford-government-s-handling-of-the-greenbelt-1.6530698 | title=RCMP probing Ford government's handling of the Greenbelt | date=August 23, 2023 }}</ref>

On August 9, 2023, the Auditor General released a report on the Greenbelt swap-out which found the government's flawed process had favoured certain developers who stood to earn over $8 billion.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.auditor.on.ca/en/content/news/specials_newsreleases/ataglance_Greenbelt_EN.pdf |title=Special Report on Changes to the Greenbelt |date=August 2023 |publisher=Office of the Auditor General of Ontario |access-date=May 10, 2024 |page=4}}</ref> The AG also confirmed that alterations to the Greenbelt were not necessary to reach Ontario's housing target and that Housing Minister ]'s chief of staff "failed to consider environmental, agricultural and financial risks and impacts".<ref>{{cite web | url=https://toronto.citynews.ca/2023/08/09/greenbelt-auditor-general-investigation/ | title=Ford government favoured developers, Greenbelt land not needed for housing target: Auditor general &#124; CityNews Toronto | date=August 9, 2023 }}</ref> Calls from the opposition for Clark to resign were resisted by Ford and Clark himself, but Clark's chief of staff stepped down. At the end of August, Ontario's Integrity Commissioner found Clark had broken ethics rules, and on September 4, Clark tendered his resignation and was replaced by ].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://globalnews.ca/news/9937642/steve-clark-resign-greenbelt-land-swap/ | title=Ontario housing minister resigns amid Greenbelt land swap scandal &#124; Globalnews.ca }}</ref> The following day, Ford reiterated he would follow 14 of the Auditor General's 15 recommendations but would proceed with allowing the construction of affordable homes under $500,000 for "newcomers and young people" on the Greenbelt.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://gpo.ca/2022/11/08/doug-ford-scapegoating-newcomers-for-his-governments-assault-on-the-greenbelt-is-a-new-low-for-the-premier/ |title=Doug Ford scapegoating newcomers for his government's assault on the Greenbelt is a new low for the Premier |date=November 8, 2022 |website=Green Party of Ontario |access-date=May 10, 2024}}</ref> He also stated more applications to remove land from the Greenbelt would be reviewed.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-premier-doug-ford-says-his-government-will-re-evaluate-more-greenbelt-lands-1.6547804 | title=Ontario Premier Doug Ford says his government will 're-evaluate' more Greenbelt lands | date=September 5, 2023 }}</ref> He did not answer a reporter's question about reinstating Rent Control, nor did he comment on calls from First Nation Chiefs across Ontario to return traditional territories to the Greenbelt.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://globalnews.ca/news/9924387/ontario-chiefs-unanimously-oppose-greenbelt-land-swap/ | title=Ontario chiefs unanimously oppose province's Greenbelt land swap &#124; Globalnews.ca }}</ref>

On September 20, another minister from Ford's cabinet, Kaleed Rasheed, resigned over his relationship with a developer involved in the Greenbelt land swap.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-minister-resigns-from-cabinet-amid-contradicting-accounts-of-las-vegas-trip-1.6570361 | title=Ontario minister resigns from Ontario PC Party amid contradicting accounts of Las Vegas trip | date=September 20, 2023 }}</ref> The next day, Ford announced that after continuous backlash from constituents and two reports regarding the flawed process of opening the Greenbelt he would reverse his decision to open the Greenbelt to development. He apologized to the people of Ontario and promised to encourage building within urban boundaries.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bureau |first=Rob Ferguson, Robert Benzie and Kristin Rushowy Queen's Park |date=September 21, 2023 |title=Doug Ford cancels controversial $8.28-billion Greenbelt land swap: 'It was a mistake' |url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/doug-ford-cancels-controversial-8-28-billion-greenbelt-land-swap-it-was-a-mistake/article_68bb891b-f18f-5d0c-940f-b3be7c1ebdfb.html |access-date=September 22, 2023 |website=Toronto Star |language=en}}</ref>

On October 10, the RCMP announced it was opening a criminal investigation into the allegations around developer favouritism in the Greenbelt land swap process used by the Province of Ontario.<ref>{{Cite web |title=RCMP investigating Ontario government's plan to open Greenbelt land for development |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/rcmp-criminal-investigation-ford-greenbelt-1.6991595}}</ref>

On October 16, Minister Calandra tabled a bill that would restore the Greenbelt lands removed in 2022 and that any future changes to the Greenbelt would have to go through the legislature.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-tables-bill-to-return-greenbelt-land-and-enhance-legal-protections-1.6602708|title=Ontario tables bill to return Greenbelt land|publisher=ctvnews.ca|date=October 16, 2023}}</ref>

==== Bike infrastructure ====
In September 2024, it was reported that the Ford government was working on legislation to restrict the construction of new ]s that would require the removal of lanes for motor vehicles.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Nixon |first1=Geoff |last2=Dhanraj |first2=Travis |last3=Reddekopp |first3=Lorenda |date=Sep 19, 2024 |title=Ontario eyes barring new bike lanes where car lanes would be cut |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-government-bike-lanes-1.7328878 |access-date=Oct 18, 2024 |work=]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ferguson |first=Rob |date=September 23, 2024 |title=Ford government to restrict new bike lanes in bid to ease gridlock |url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/ford-government-to-restrict-new-bike-lanes-in-bid-to-ease-gridlock/article_8a6870c0-7755-11ef-b901-4f02b8c46b12.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240925040755/https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/ford-government-to-restrict-new-bike-lanes-in-bid-to-ease-gridlock/article_8a6870c0-7755-11ef-b901-4f02b8c46b12.html |archive-date=September 25, 2024 |access-date=October 18, 2024 |website=] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last1=Callan |first1=Isaac |last2=D'Mello |first2=Colin |date=September 23, 2024 |title=Ford wants to see bike lanes put on 'side streets' instead of main roads |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/10770451/doug-ford-bike-lanes-comments/ |access-date=2024-10-19 |website=] |language=en-CA}}</ref> While speaking with reporters, he stated his belief that bike lanes increased congestion and emergency vehicle times (though the City of Toronto has disputed that claim<ref>{{Cite news |last=Raveendran |first=Rochelle |date=September 24, 2024 |title=Doug Ford makes several exaggerated claims about Toronto bike lanes |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-toronto-bike-lanes-1.7332276 |work=]}}</ref>), and that they should be built on side streets rather than major arterial roads.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/video/9.6518304 |title=Ontario Premier Doug Ford on bike lanes |type=video |language=English}}</ref> In October 15, Ford announced that any such lanes would require provincial approval to be built, and that municipalities would need to demonstrate that the lanes would not have a "negative impact on vehicle traffic".<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=October 15, 2024 |title=Ontario to require provincial approval for new municipal bike lanes |url=https://ici.radio-canada.ca/rci/en/news/2112442/ontario-to-require-provincial-approval-for-new-municipal-bike-lanes |access-date=October 19, 2024 |website=Radio-Canada |language=EN-ca}}</ref> He also announced that he would remove bike lanes from some arterial streets, such as ], Yonge Street, and ] in Toronto.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=D'Mello |first1=Colin |last2=Callan |first2=Isaac |date=October 23, 2024 |title='They're coming out': Ford says he will remove bike lanes from 3 Toronto streets |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/10825146/toronto-bike-lane-removal-plan-doug-ford/ |access-date=November 2, 2024 |work=]}}</ref> This bill, named the ''Reducing Gridlock, Saving you Time Act'' also shielded the government from any lawsuits related to cyclist deaths, and passed on November 25, 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carter |first=Adam |date=Nov 25, 2024 |title=Ontario passes bill that allows major Toronto bike lanes to be ripped out |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/bill-212-bike-lanes-highway-413-passes-1.7392821 |access-date=Dec 28, 2024 |website=CBC news}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Ford gov’t passes law to remove Ontario bike lanes, frustrate future installations {{!}} Globalnews.ca |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/10887272/ontario-bike-lane-removal-law-passes/ |access-date=2024-12-28 |website=Global News |language=en-US}}</ref> A court challenge was launched on December 11 to stop the removal of the Toronto bike lanes.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lang |first=Ethan |date=Dec 11, 2024 |title=Court challenge launched against Ontario bike lane removal legislation |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/court-challenge-bike-lanes-ontario-law-1.7407324 |access-date=Dec 28, 2024 |website=CBC news}}</ref>


===Hydro=== ===Hydro===
During his election campaign Ford had promised to lower Ontario's electricity rates by 12 percent.<ref name="Jeffords201812Percent">{{cite news |last=Jeffords |first=Shawn |date=27 April 2018 |title=Doug Ford promises 12 per cent cut to hydro rates if elected |url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-election-2018/doug-ford-promises-12-per-cent-cut-to-hydro-rates-if-elected-1.3905227 |work=CTV News |access-date=21 November 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=PC Leader Doug Ford pledges to cut hydro bills by 12% if elected {{!}} CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/kitchener-waterloo/doug-ford-waterloo-friday-1.4638126 |publisher=CBC |access-date=September 9, 2018 |archive-date=August 14, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180814004020/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/kitchener-waterloo/doug-ford-waterloo-friday-1.4638126 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=platform /> During his campaign, in April 2018, he announced that in order to reduce electricity rates,<ref name="thestar_Follert_20180325"/> he would redirect the province's ]s from partial ownership of ] to subsidize market electricity rates, as well as absorbing the cost of conservation programs currently paid for by consumers, at an estimated cost of $800 million per year.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Giovannetti_20180427">{{cite news |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-promises-12-per-cent-cut-to-ontario-hydro-rates-but-doesnt/ |title=Doug Ford promises 12-per-cent cut to Ontario hydro rates but doesn't say how Tories would replace lost revenue |first=Justin |last=Giovannetti |journal=The Globe and Mail |date=April 27, 2018 |access-date=June 4, 2018 |archive-date=April 30, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180430063520/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-promises-12-per-cent-cut-to-ontario-hydro-rates-but-doesnt/ |url-status=live }}</ref> During his election campaign Ford had promised to lower Ontario's electricity rates by 12 percent.<ref name="Jeffords201812Percent">{{cite news |last=Jeffords |first=Shawn |date=April 27, 2018 |title=Doug Ford promises 12 per cent cut to hydro rates if elected |url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-election-2018/doug-ford-promises-12-per-cent-cut-to-hydro-rates-if-elected-1.3905227 |work=CTV News |access-date=November 21, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=PC Leader Doug Ford pledges to cut hydro bills by 12% if elected {{!}} CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/kitchener-waterloo/doug-ford-waterloo-friday-1.4638126 |publisher=CBC |access-date=September 9, 2018 |archive-date=August 14, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180814004020/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/kitchener-waterloo/doug-ford-waterloo-friday-1.4638126 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=platform /> During his campaign, in April 2018, he announced that in order to reduce electricity rates,<ref name="thestar_Follert_20180325"/> he would redirect the province's ]s from partial ownership of ] to subsidize market electricity rates, as well as absorbing the cost of conservation programs currently paid for by consumers, at an estimated cost of $800 million per year.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Giovannetti_20180427">{{cite news |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-promises-12-per-cent-cut-to-ontario-hydro-rates-but-doesnt/ |title=Doug Ford promises 12-per-cent cut to Ontario hydro rates but doesn't say how Tories would replace lost revenue |first=Justin |last=Giovannetti |journal=The Globe and Mail |date=April 27, 2018 |access-date=June 4, 2018 |archive-date=April 30, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180430063520/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-promises-12-per-cent-cut-to-ontario-hydro-rates-but-doesnt/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


Ford attacked Hydro One CEO Mayo Schmidt, calling him "Kathleen Wynne's $6-million dollar man" in reference to his reported annual salary, and called on the utility's board of directors to resign.<ref name="DougFordHydroOneFiring">{{cite news |date=12 April 2018 |title=PC Leader Doug Ford vows to fire Hydro One CEO, board if elected |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-hydro-one-1.4616173 |work=CBC News |location=Toronto |access-date=21 November 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-pc-leader-doug-ford-hydro-one-resign-immediately-executive-compension-1.4626541 |title=Ontario PC Leader Doug Ford renews attack on Hydro One CEO and board |newspaper=CBC News |date=April 19, 2018 |access-date=May 4, 2018 |archive-date=May 3, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180503005826/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-pc-leader-doug-ford-hydro-one-resign-immediately-executive-compension-1.4626541 |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford vowed to fire them all if elected, although PC energy critic ] later clarified that the government cannot dismiss Hydro One's CEO directly.<ref name="tenpointseven">{{cite web |url=https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2018/04/12/doug-ford-hydro-one-ontario_a_23409992/ |title=Doug Ford's Pledge To Fire Hydro One CEO, Board Would Cost $10.7M |website=Huffington Post |first=Shawn |last=Jeffords |date=April 12, 2018 |access-date=May 4, 2018 |archive-date=May 4, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180504225601/https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2018/04/12/doug-ford-hydro-one-ontario_a_23409992/ |url-status=live }}</ref> He opposed his predecessor's decision to privatize Hydro One, but does not plan to reverse the decision.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Hydro One shares tumble after utility strikes deal with Doug Ford to replace board, CEO|url=https://financialpost.com/commodities/energy/hydro-one-shares-tumble-after-utility-strikes-deal-with-doug-ford-to-replace-board-ceo|access-date=2021-04-15|newspaper=Financial Post|date=July 12, 2018 |language=en-CA|archive-date=April 15, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210415151617/https://financialpost.com/commodities/energy/hydro-one-shares-tumble-after-utility-strikes-deal-with-doug-ford-to-replace-board-ceo|url-status=live|last1=Zochodne |first1=Geoff }}</ref> His government passed legislation to publicly disclose and reduce the salaries of Hydro One's board members and executives.<ref>{{cite news |title=Doug Ford government moves to take greater control of Hydro One executive salaries |url=https://business.financialpost.com/commodities/energy/tory-government-moves-to-take-greater-control-of-hydro-one-executive-salaries |publisher=Financial Post |date=16 July 2018 |access-date=September 5, 2018 |archive-date=November 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211130131507/https://financialpost.com/commodities/energy/tory-government-moves-to-take-greater-control-of-hydro-one-executive-salaries |url-status=live }}</ref> On July 11, 2018, ] CEO Mayo Schmidt resigned along with the entire board.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-entire-ontario-hydro-one-board-to-resign-ceo-to-step-down/ |title=Hydro One board, CEO Mayo Schmidt step aside, bow to pressure from Ontario Premier Doug Ford |newspaper=The Globe and Mail |first=Justin |last=Giovannetti |date=July 11, 2018 |access-date=December 9, 2018 |archive-date=December 7, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181207200647/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-entire-ontario-hydro-one-board-to-resign-ceo-to-step-down/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Doug Ford's government forces out Hydro One '$6-million man' {{!}} CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-hydro-one-1.4743097 |publisher=CBC |access-date=September 5, 2018 |archive-date=August 29, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180829222205/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-hydro-one-1.4743097 |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford attacked Hydro One CEO Mayo Schmidt, calling him "Kathleen Wynne's $6-million dollar man" in reference to his reported annual salary, and called on the utility's board of directors to resign.<ref name="DougFordHydroOneFiring">{{cite news |date=April 12, 2018 |title=PC Leader Doug Ford vows to fire Hydro One CEO, board if elected |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-hydro-one-1.4616173 |work=CBC News |location=Toronto |access-date=November 21, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-pc-leader-doug-ford-hydro-one-resign-immediately-executive-compension-1.4626541 |title=Ontario PC Leader Doug Ford renews attack on Hydro One CEO and board |newspaper=CBC News |date=April 19, 2018 |access-date=May 4, 2018 |archive-date=May 3, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180503005826/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-pc-leader-doug-ford-hydro-one-resign-immediately-executive-compension-1.4626541 |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford vowed to fire them all if elected, although PC energy critic ] later clarified that the government cannot dismiss Hydro One's CEO directly.<ref name="tenpointseven">{{cite web |url=https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2018/04/12/doug-ford-hydro-one-ontario_a_23409992/ |title=Doug Ford's Pledge To Fire Hydro One CEO, Board Would Cost $10.7M |website=Huffington Post |first=Shawn |last=Jeffords |date=April 12, 2018 |access-date=May 4, 2018 |archive-date=May 4, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180504225601/https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2018/04/12/doug-ford-hydro-one-ontario_a_23409992/ |url-status=live }}</ref> He opposed his predecessor's decision to privatize Hydro One, but does not plan to reverse the decision.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Hydro One shares tumble after utility strikes deal with Doug Ford to replace board, CEO|url=https://financialpost.com/commodities/energy/hydro-one-shares-tumble-after-utility-strikes-deal-with-doug-ford-to-replace-board-ceo|access-date=April 15, 2021|newspaper=Financial Post|date=July 12, 2018 |language=en-CA|archive-date=April 15, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210415151617/https://financialpost.com/commodities/energy/hydro-one-shares-tumble-after-utility-strikes-deal-with-doug-ford-to-replace-board-ceo|url-status=live|last1=Zochodne |first1=Geoff }}</ref> His government passed legislation to publicly disclose and reduce the salaries of Hydro One's board members and executives.<ref>{{cite news |title=Doug Ford government moves to take greater control of Hydro One executive salaries |url=https://business.financialpost.com/commodities/energy/tory-government-moves-to-take-greater-control-of-hydro-one-executive-salaries |publisher=Financial Post |date=July 16, 2018 |access-date=September 5, 2018 |archive-date=November 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211130131507/https://financialpost.com/commodities/energy/tory-government-moves-to-take-greater-control-of-hydro-one-executive-salaries |url-status=live }}</ref> On July 11, 2018, ] CEO Mayo Schmidt resigned along with the entire board.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-entire-ontario-hydro-one-board-to-resign-ceo-to-step-down/ |title=Hydro One board, CEO Mayo Schmidt step aside, bow to pressure from Ontario Premier Doug Ford |newspaper=The Globe and Mail |first=Justin |last=Giovannetti |date=July 11, 2018 |access-date=December 9, 2018 |archive-date=December 7, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181207200647/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-entire-ontario-hydro-one-board-to-resign-ceo-to-step-down/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Doug Ford's government forces out Hydro One '$6-million man' {{!}} CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-hydro-one-1.4743097 |publisher=CBC |access-date=September 5, 2018 |archive-date=August 29, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180829222205/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-hydro-one-1.4743097 |url-status=live }}</ref>


According to '']'', by December 5, 2018, ], the state's regulators, rejected Hydro One's $3.4 Billion takeover of ] because of "political risks in Ontario&nbsp;... from provincial leaders who may not have the company’s well being in mind".<ref name="bloomberg_Chediak_20181205">{{cite news |title=Avista Falls as 'Political' Risk Foils $3 Billion Hydro One Deal |first1=Mark |last1=Chediak |first2=Josh |last2=Wingrove |date=December 5, 2018 |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-12-05/washington-rejects-hydro-one-deal-for-avista-on-political-risk |access-date=December 9, 2018 |archive-date=December 10, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181210111115/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-12-05/washington-rejects-hydro-one-deal-for-avista-on-political-risk |url-status=live }}</ref> Bloomberg also reported that, if the merger was not approved by the state's regulators, Hydro One would have to pay CA$138 million break fee. Because Hydro One is partially owned by the Ontario government, Ontario ratepayers would also be paying the "Parent Termination Fee".<ref name="CP24_Herhalt_20181206">{{cite news |url=https://www.cp24.com/news/hydro-one-could-have-to-pay-138m-break-fee-after-regulator-blocks-u-s-deal-1.4207313 |title=Hydro One could have to pay $138M 'break fee' after regulator blocks U.S. deal |first=Chris |last=Herhalt |work=CP24 |date=December 6, 2018 |access-date=December 9, 2018 |archive-date=December 7, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181207135922/https://www.cp24.com/news/hydro-one-could-have-to-pay-138m-break-fee-after-regulator-blocks-u-s-deal-1.4207313 |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford denies that he is to blame for the U.S. regulators' decision.<ref name="ourwindsor_Benzie_20181206">{{cite news |title=Premier Doug Ford says he's not to blame after U.S. regulator zaps Hydro One takeover of Avista |date=December 6, 2018 |access-date=December 9, 2018 |first=Robert |last=Benzie |url=https://www.ourwindsor.ca/news-story/9070356-premier-doug-ford-says-he-s-not-to-blame-after-u-s-regulator-zaps-hydro-one-takeover-of-avista/ |work=Toronto Star |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206220645/https://www.ourwindsor.ca/news-story/9070356-premier-doug-ford-says-he-s-not-to-blame-after-u-s-regulator-zaps-hydro-one-takeover-of-avista/ |url-status=live }}</ref> According to '']'', by December 5, 2018, ], the state's regulators, rejected Hydro One's $3.4 Billion takeover of ] because of "political risks in Ontario&nbsp;... from provincial leaders who may not have the company's well being in mind".<ref name="bloomberg_Chediak_20181205">{{cite news |title=Avista Falls as 'Political' Risk Foils $3 Billion Hydro One Deal |first1=Mark |last1=Chediak |first2=Josh |last2=Wingrove |date=December 5, 2018 |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-12-05/washington-rejects-hydro-one-deal-for-avista-on-political-risk |access-date=December 9, 2018 |archive-date=December 10, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181210111115/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-12-05/washington-rejects-hydro-one-deal-for-avista-on-political-risk |url-status=live }}</ref> Bloomberg also reported that, if the merger was not approved by the state's regulators, Hydro One would have to pay CA$138 million break fee. Because Hydro One is partially owned by the Ontario government, Ontario ratepayers would also be paying the "Parent Termination Fee".<ref name="CP24_Herhalt_20181206">{{cite news |url=https://www.cp24.com/news/hydro-one-could-have-to-pay-138m-break-fee-after-regulator-blocks-u-s-deal-1.4207313 |title=Hydro One could have to pay $138M 'break fee' after regulator blocks U.S. deal |first=Chris |last=Herhalt |work=CP24 |date=December 6, 2018 |access-date=December 9, 2018 |archive-date=December 7, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181207135922/https://www.cp24.com/news/hydro-one-could-have-to-pay-138m-break-fee-after-regulator-blocks-u-s-deal-1.4207313 |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford denies that he is to blame for the U.S. regulators' decision.<ref name="ourwindsor_Benzie_20181206">{{cite news |title=Premier Doug Ford says he's not to blame after U.S. regulator zaps Hydro One takeover of Avista |date=December 6, 2018 |access-date=December 9, 2018 |first=Robert |last=Benzie |url=https://www.ourwindsor.ca/news-story/9070356-premier-doug-ford-says-he-s-not-to-blame-after-u-s-regulator-zaps-hydro-one-takeover-of-avista/ |work=Toronto Star |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206220645/https://www.ourwindsor.ca/news-story/9070356-premier-doug-ford-says-he-s-not-to-blame-after-u-s-regulator-zaps-hydro-one-takeover-of-avista/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


===Public safety=== ===Public safety===
Ford came under fire in December 2018 by ] (OPP) Deputy Commissioner ], who claimed Ford requested the OPP “purchase a large camper-type vehicle ... modified to specifications the premier’s office would provide” and keep the costs “off the books.” The vehicle was intended for the premier to use for work, and reportedly was asked to include a swivel chair.<ref>{{cite news|title=Tories defend Doug Ford's request for OPP van|url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2018/12/19/tories-defend-doug-fords-request-for-opp-van.html|newspaper=The Toronto Star|date=December 19, 2018 |access-date=December 19, 2018|archive-date=December 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181220015530/https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2018/12/19/tories-defend-doug-fords-request-for-opp-van.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The accusation followed on the heels of Ford appointing a longtime family friend to be the next OPP commissioner just days after lowering the requirements for the position.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20181213">{{cite news|last=Stone|first=Laura|date=December 13, 2018|title=Former RCMP head Bob Paulson calls for review of hiring of Doug Ford's friend Ron Taverner as OPP commissioner|publisher=The Globe and Mail|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-former-rcmp-head-bob-paulson-calls-for-review-of-hiring-of-doug-fords/|access-date=July 10, 2019|archive-date=December 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181222114451/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-former-rcmp-head-bob-paulson-calls-for-review-of-hiring-of-doug-fords/|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford came under fire in December 2018 by ] (OPP) Deputy Commissioner ], who claimed Ford requested the OPP “purchase a large camper-type vehicle ... modified to specifications the premier's office would provide” and keep the costs “off the books.” The vehicle was intended for the premier to use for work, and reportedly was asked to include a swivel chair.<ref>{{cite news|title=Tories defend Doug Ford's request for OPP van|url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2018/12/19/tories-defend-doug-fords-request-for-opp-van.html|newspaper=The Toronto Star|date=December 19, 2018 |access-date=December 19, 2018|archive-date=December 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181220015530/https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2018/12/19/tories-defend-doug-fords-request-for-opp-van.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The accusation followed on the heels of Ford appointing a longtime family friend to be the next OPP commissioner just days after lowering the requirements for the position.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20181213">{{cite news|last=Stone|first=Laura|date=December 13, 2018|title=Former RCMP head Bob Paulson calls for review of hiring of Doug Ford's friend Ron Taverner as OPP commissioner|publisher=The Globe and Mail|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-former-rcmp-head-bob-paulson-calls-for-review-of-hiring-of-doug-fords/|access-date=July 10, 2019|archive-date=December 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181222114451/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-former-rcmp-head-bob-paulson-calls-for-review-of-hiring-of-doug-fords/|url-status=live}}</ref>


In response to increasing calls for one, Ford has stated he opposes a ban on ]s in Ontario.<ref>{{cite news|title=Premier Doug Ford opposes ban on handgun sales in Toronto {{!}} The Star|language=en|work=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2018/08/09/premier-doug-ford-opposes-ban-on-handgun-sales-in-toronto.html|access-date=September 5, 2018|archive-date=September 5, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180905175555/https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2018/08/09/premier-doug-ford-opposes-ban-on-handgun-sales-in-toronto.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In response to increasing calls for one, Ford has stated he opposes a ban on ]s in Ontario.<ref>{{cite news|title=Premier Doug Ford opposes ban on handgun sales in Toronto {{!}} The Star|language=en|work=The Star|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2018/08/09/premier-doug-ford-opposes-ban-on-handgun-sales-in-toronto.html|access-date=September 5, 2018|archive-date=September 5, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180905175555/https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2018/08/09/premier-doug-ford-opposes-ban-on-handgun-sales-in-toronto.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
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In July 2018, Ford hired Rueben Devlin, former PC Party president and a Ford family friend, as a health-care advisor at a salary of $350,000 plus expenses, more than Ford's own salary of $208,974.<ref name="thestar_Benzie_20180706">{{cite news|last=Benzie|first=Robert|date=July 6, 2018|title=Ford rewards key Tory adviser with $348K patronage job to curb hospital overcrowding|work=Toronto Star|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/07/06/ford-rewards-key-tory-adviser-with-348k-patronage-job-to-curb-hospital-overcrowding.html|access-date=July 11, 2018|archive-date=July 11, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180711201652/https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/07/06/ford-rewards-key-tory-adviser-with-348k-patronage-job-to-curb-hospital-overcrowding.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-gives-health-adviser-job-to-former-pc-party-president-with/ |work=The Globe and Mail |title=Doug Ford gives health-adviser job to former PC party president − with $350,000 salary |date=July 6, 2018 |agency=The Canadian Press |access-date=July 11, 2018 |archive-date=November 30, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130152415/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-gives-health-adviser-job-to-former-pc-party-president-with/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In July 2018, Ford hired Rueben Devlin, former PC Party president and a Ford family friend, as a health-care advisor at a salary of $350,000 plus expenses, more than Ford's own salary of $208,974.<ref name="thestar_Benzie_20180706">{{cite news|last=Benzie|first=Robert|date=July 6, 2018|title=Ford rewards key Tory adviser with $348K patronage job to curb hospital overcrowding|work=Toronto Star|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/07/06/ford-rewards-key-tory-adviser-with-348k-patronage-job-to-curb-hospital-overcrowding.html|access-date=July 11, 2018|archive-date=July 11, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180711201652/https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2018/07/06/ford-rewards-key-tory-adviser-with-348k-patronage-job-to-curb-hospital-overcrowding.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-gives-health-adviser-job-to-former-pc-party-president-with/ |work=The Globe and Mail |title=Doug Ford gives health-adviser job to former PC party president − with $350,000 salary |date=July 6, 2018 |agency=The Canadian Press |access-date=July 11, 2018 |archive-date=November 30, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130152415/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-doug-ford-gives-health-adviser-job-to-former-pc-party-president-with/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


In December 2018 ], who served as a ] (RCMP) officer for 32-years including as ] before retiring in 2017, called for an independent third-party inquiry into Ford's appointment in December 2018 of Toronto Police Superintendent Ron Taverner, who is a long-time friend of Ford, as the new commissioner of the Ontario Provincial Police.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20181213"/> By March 2019, Taverner had stepped down following "months of controversy" that "triggered an integrity commissioner investigation".<ref name="NaPO_20190311">{{Cite news| title = Conservatives appoint new OPP commissioner five days after Ron Taverner withdraws| newspaper = National Post| date = March 11, 2019| access-date = July 10, 2019| url = https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/new-opp-commissioner-appointed-five-days-after-ron-taverner-withdraws}}</ref> In December 2018 ], who served as a ] (RCMP) officer for 32-years including as ] before retiring in 2017, called for an independent third-party inquiry into Ford's appointment in December 2018 of Toronto Police Superintendent Ron Taverner, who is a long-time friend of Ford, as the new commissioner of the Ontario Provincial Police.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20181213"/> By March 2019, Taverner had stepped down following "months of controversy" that "triggered an integrity commissioner investigation".<ref name="NaPO_20190311">{{Cite news| title = Conservatives appoint new OPP commissioner five days after Ron Taverner withdraws| newspaper = National Post| date = March 11, 2019| access-date = July 10, 2019| url = https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/new-opp-commissioner-appointed-five-days-after-ron-taverner-withdraws}}</ref>


A June 20, 2019, article in the '']'' said that Ford had awarded "plum patronage posts to two political allies". He hired Jag Badwal as Ontario's agent-general to Britain and the United States with an annual salary of $185,000.<ref name="thestar_Benzie_20190719">{{Cite news |title=Ford doles out political patronage plums to allies |url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2019/06/20/ford-doles-out-political-patronage-plums-to-allies.html |first=Robert |last=Benzie |work=The Toronto Star |date=June 20, 2019 |access-date=July 19, 2019 |archive-date=July 16, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190716120637/https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2019/06/20/ford-doles-out-political-patronage-plums-to-allies.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford named Earl Provost as Ontario's agent-general to Chicago.<ref name="thestar_Benzie_20190719"/> A June 20, 2019, article in the '']'' said that Ford had awarded "plum patronage posts to two political allies". He hired Jag Badwal as Ontario's agent-general to Britain and the United States with an annual salary of $185,000.<ref name="thestar_Benzie_20190719">{{Cite news |title=Ford doles out political patronage plums to allies |url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2019/06/20/ford-doles-out-political-patronage-plums-to-allies.html |first=Robert |last=Benzie |work=The Toronto Star |date=June 20, 2019 |access-date=July 19, 2019 |archive-date=July 16, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190716120637/https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2019/06/20/ford-doles-out-political-patronage-plums-to-allies.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford named Earl Provost as Ontario's agent-general to Chicago.<ref name="thestar_Benzie_20190719"/>


On June 28, 2019, Ford's chief of staff, Dean French, resigned "amid a patronage scandal".<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20190710">{{Cite news|title=Committee chair resigns after ties revealed to Ford's ex-chief of staff Dean French|first=Laura|last=Stone|date=July 10, 2019|access-date=July 10, 2019|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-committee-chair-resigns-after-ties-revealed-to-fords-ex-chief-of/|newspaper=The Globe and Mail|archive-date=July 11, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190711032003/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-committee-chair-resigns-after-ties-revealed-to-fords-ex-chief-of/|url-status=live}}</ref> According to a ''Globe and Mail'' article, French resigned "after it was revealed that two people with personal ties to , 26 year-old Tyler Albrecht and Taylor Shields were appointed to lucrative positions in New York and London.<ref name="TVO_Paikin_20190708"/><ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20190625"/> The '']'' reported in a June 27, 2019, article that 26-year-old Tyler Albrecht, who had a "thin resume", was proposed for a "job that paid $165,000 a year, plus housing and other expenses" as Ontario's "new trade rep in New York City". His qualification was "that he played lacrosse with French's son".<ref name="torontosun_Lilly_20190627">{{Cite news| last = Lilly| first = Brian| title = Dean French appointments were a bad example, nothing more| newspaper = Toronto Sun| access-date = July 10, 2019| date = June 27, 2019| url = https://torontosun.com/opinion/columnists/lilley-french-appointments-were-a-bad-example-nothing-more| archive-date = June 30, 2019| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190630055728/https://torontosun.com/opinion/columnists/lilley-french-appointments-were-a-bad-example-nothing-more| url-status = live}}</ref> TVO's ] cited the example of Taylor Shields, who is French's wife's cousin, who was appointed as the trade representative in London, England,<ref name="TVO_Paikin_20190708">{{Cite news| title = It's time for some straight talk about patronage appointments| first = Steve| last = Paikin| work = TVO| access-date = July 10, 2019| date = July 8, 2019| url = http://www.tvo.org/article/its-time-for-some-straight-talk-about-patronage-appointments| archive-date = July 11, 2019| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190711025259/https://www.tvo.org/article/its-time-for-some-straight-talk-about-patronage-appointments| url-status = live}}</ref> with a salary of $185,000 plus expenses.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20190625"/> Just hours before French resigned, Ford had cancelled Albrecht's and Shields' appointments.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20190625">{{cite news|title=Premier Ford to review government appointments after new Dean French ties revealed|publisher=The Globe and Mail |first=Laura |last=Stone|date=June 25, 2019}}</ref> On June 28, 2019, Ford's chief of staff, Dean French, resigned "amid a patronage scandal".<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20190710">{{Cite news|title=Committee chair resigns after ties revealed to Ford's ex-chief of staff Dean French|first=Laura|last=Stone|date=July 10, 2019|access-date=July 10, 2019|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-committee-chair-resigns-after-ties-revealed-to-fords-ex-chief-of/|newspaper=The Globe and Mail|archive-date=July 11, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190711032003/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-committee-chair-resigns-after-ties-revealed-to-fords-ex-chief-of/|url-status=live}}</ref> According to a ''Globe and Mail'' article, French resigned "after it was revealed that two people with personal ties to , 26 year-old Tyler Albrecht and Taylor Shields were appointed to lucrative positions in New York and London.<ref name="TVO_Paikin_20190708"/><ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20190625"/> The '']'' reported in a June 27, 2019, article that 26-year-old Tyler Albrecht, who had a "thin resume", was proposed for a "job that paid $165,000 a year, plus housing and other expenses" as Ontario's "new trade rep in New York City". His qualification was "that he played lacrosse with French's son".<ref name="torontosun_Lilly_20190627">{{Cite news| last = Lilly| first = Brian| title = Dean French appointments were a bad example, nothing more| newspaper = Toronto Sun| access-date = July 10, 2019| date = June 27, 2019| url = https://torontosun.com/opinion/columnists/lilley-french-appointments-were-a-bad-example-nothing-more| archive-date = June 30, 2019| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190630055728/https://torontosun.com/opinion/columnists/lilley-french-appointments-were-a-bad-example-nothing-more| url-status = live}}</ref> TVO's ] cited the example of Taylor Shields, who is French's wife's cousin, who was appointed as the trade representative in London, England,<ref name="TVO_Paikin_20190708">{{Cite news| title = It's time for some straight talk about patronage appointments| first = Steve| last = Paikin| work = TVO| access-date = July 10, 2019| date = July 8, 2019| url = https://www.tvo.org/article/its-time-for-some-straight-talk-about-patronage-appointments| archive-date = July 11, 2019| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190711025259/https://www.tvo.org/article/its-time-for-some-straight-talk-about-patronage-appointments| url-status = live}}</ref> with a salary of $185,000 plus expenses.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20190625"/> Just hours before French resigned, Ford had cancelled Albrecht's and Shields' appointments.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20190625">{{cite news|title=Premier Ford to review government appointments after new Dean French ties revealed|publisher=The Globe and Mail |first=Laura |last=Stone|date=June 25, 2019}}</ref> Thomas Staples, who played on St. Michael's College Varsity Lacrosse team with French as coach,<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20190710"/> worked in the office of ], who was ]. When Walker became ] in November 2018, Staples worked as his executive assistant and legislative affairs advisor.<ref name="iPolitics_20190626">{{Cite news| date = June 26, 2019| first = Marieke| last = Walsh| title = Dean French helped get former lacrosse player government job: source| work = iPolitics| access-date = July 10, 2019| url = https://ipolitics.ca/2019/06/26/dean-french-helped-get-former-lacrosse-player-government-job-source/| archive-date = July 11, 2019| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190711023921/https://ipolitics.ca/2019/06/26/dean-french-helped-get-former-lacrosse-player-government-job-source/| url-status = live}}</ref> According to '']'', Staples had not completed his undergraduate studies, and had neither the qualifications nor work experience in politics.<ref name="iPolitics_20190626"/> French's niece, Katherine Pal, who had been appointed as Ontario's Public Accounts Council resigned after her family ties to French were revealed.<ref name="iPolitics_20190626"/> According to Paikin, Pal was well qualified to be Public Accounts Council but she resigned because of the bad optics.<ref name="TVO_Paikin_20190708"/> On July 4, Peter Fenwick, who served as Ontario's first "strategic transformation adviser" since November 2018, was fired when it was revealed in an interview with ''The Star'' that "Fenwick has been a life insurance customer of French's for at least 20 years".<ref name="thestar_20190705">{{Cite news|first=Rob|last=Ferguson|title=Ontario government tight-lipped on severance for fired senior bureaucrat|newspaper=The Toronto Star|access-date=July 10, 2019|date=July 5, 2019|url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2019/07/05/ontario-government-tight-lipped-on-severance-for-fired-senior-bureaucrat.html|archive-date=July 10, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190710034833/https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2019/07/05/ontario-government-tight-lipped-on-severance-for-fired-senior-bureaucrat.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On July 10, Andrew Suboch, a "personal injury and insurance lawyer" who had served as chair of the Justices of the Peace Appointments Advisory Committee (JPAAC), informed the JPAAC that he was resigning immediately after an article in the ''Globe'' revealed that Suboch was another of French's "long-time" friends whose sons played lacrosse together for many years.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20190710"/><ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20190625"/>


=== Ontario Place Controversy ===
Thomas Staples, who played on St. Michael's College Varsity Lacrosse team with French as coach,<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20190710"/> worked in the office of ], who was ]. When Walker became ] in November 2018, Staples worked as his executive assistant and legislative affairs advisor.<ref name="iPolitics_20190626">{{Cite news| date = June 26, 2019| first = Marieke| last = Walsh| title = Dean French helped get former lacrosse player government job: source| work = iPolitics| access-date = July 10, 2019| url = https://ipolitics.ca/2019/06/26/dean-french-helped-get-former-lacrosse-player-government-job-source/| archive-date = July 11, 2019| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190711023921/https://ipolitics.ca/2019/06/26/dean-french-helped-get-former-lacrosse-player-government-job-source/| url-status = live}}</ref> According to '']'', Staples had not completed his undergraduate studies, and had neither the qualifications nor work experience in politics.<ref name="iPolitics_20190626"/>
In 2021, Ford released his vision for ].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ontario Newsroom |url=https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1000630/province-announces-ontario-place-redevelopment |access-date=2024-12-29 |website=news.ontario.ca}}</ref> This park used to be an amusement park before being shut down in 2011, and was due to be revitalized. Ford's revitalization plan included a new spa, adventure park, and expanded stage. However, an attorney general report released in December 2024 called the revitalization 'not fair, transparent or accountable'.<ref name=":9">{{Cite web |title=Bombshell AG report says Ontario Place redevelopment ‘not fair, transparent or accountable’ {{!}} Globalnews.ca |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/10898839/auditor-general-ontario-place-2024/ |access-date=2024-12-29 |website=Global News |language=en-US}}</ref>


The private spa was to be built and operated by ], an Austrian spa company. Its construction requires the clear-cutting of Ontario Place's West Island, a process which has bulldozed over 850 trees.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-10-05 |title=Over 850 trees bulldozed at Ontario Place under cover of darkness, as Province releases Therme lease details – Federation of North Toronto Residents' Associations |url=https://fontra.com/over-850-trees-bulldozed-at-ontario-place-under-cover-of-darkness-as-province-releases-therme-lease-details/ |access-date=2024-12-29 |language=en-US}}</ref> The Ontario government is also obligated to build a substantial parking component for the spa at taxpayers' expense (even as ] and a ] are being built nearby). The cost to provide this parking is at 400 million dollars as of May 2024.<ref name=":9" /> Per the attorney general report, other bids would have privately funded this parking, with 3 of the 10 bids also providing a public park as well as the funding the parking lot.<ref name=":10">{{Cite web |last=Casaletto |first=Lucas |date=2024-12-03 |title=Ford government's Ontario Place redevelopment costs have ballooned by $1.8B, process was unfair and subjective: AG |url=https://toronto.citynews.ca/2024/12/03/ontario-place-auditor-general-report-science-centre-costs-doug-ford-government/ |access-date=2024-12-29 |website=CityNews Toronto |language=en}}</ref>
French's niece, Katherine Pal, who had been appointed as Ontario's Public Accounts Council resigned after her family ties to French were revealed.<ref name="iPolitics_20190626"/> According to Paikin, Pal was well qualified to be Public Accounts Council but she resigned because of the bad optics.<ref name="TVO_Paikin_20190708"/>


In 2024, Ford's government closed down the ] due to a report suggesting that the roof tiles of the science centre could collapse without repairs. However, the company that originally built the science center said that the building does not need to be shut down, and offered to fix it.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ford government didn’t need to close science centre, firm that designed it says - Toronto {{!}} Globalnews.ca |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/10587747/ontario-science-centre-closure-architect-firm/ |access-date=2024-12-29 |website=Global News |language=en-US}}</ref> Now-nobel laureate ] pledged 1 million dollars to help rebuild the science center,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-06-27 |title='Godfather' of AI pledges $1 million to fix Ontario Science Centre |url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/architecture-firm-behind-ontario-science-centre-says-closure-was-a-political-move-1.6942977 |access-date=2024-12-29 |website=Toronto |language=en}}</ref> but this did not stop the Ford government's plan: the science center will still be moved to Ontario Place in 2029 at the earliest, and into a space that is 50% smaller than the previous one.<ref name=":11">{{Cite web |last=Jones |first=Allison |date=Dec 19, 2024 |title=New science centre at Ontario Place to open in 2029, auditor general says |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/science-centre-ontario-place-opening-delayed-1.7414677 |access-date=Dec 29, 2024 |website=CBC news}}</ref> The updated budget in 2024 pushed the cost to build the new, smaller science center to 1.4 billion, less than maintaining it at its current location, which is assessed at 1.3 billion.<ref name=":11" /> As of Fall 2024, parts of the Science Center's contents are scattered around malls in the GTA for temporary exhibits.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ontario Science Centre’s Interactive Experiences Coming to CF Sherway Gardens and Harbourfront Centre this Fall |url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/about-us/media-room/ontario-science-centre-s-interactive-experiences-coming-to-cf-sherway-gardens-and-harbourfront-centre-this-fall |access-date=2024-12-29 |website=www.ontariosciencecentre.ca}}</ref>
On July 4, Peter Fenwick, who served as Ontario's first "strategic transformation adviser" since November 2018, was fired when it was revealed in an interview with ''The Star'' that "Fenwick has been a life insurance customer of French's for at least 20 years".<ref name="thestar_20190705">{{Cite news|first=Rob|last=Ferguson|title=Ontario government tight-lipped on severance for fired senior bureaucrat|newspaper=The Toronto Star|access-date=July 10, 2019|date=July 5, 2019|url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2019/07/05/ontario-government-tight-lipped-on-severance-for-fired-senior-bureaucrat.html|archive-date=July 10, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190710034833/https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2019/07/05/ontario-government-tight-lipped-on-severance-for-fired-senior-bureaucrat.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


The total cost of the Ontario Place redevelopment is $2.2 billion as of 2024,<ref name=":9" /> <ref name=":10" /> up from around 400 million predicted in 2019.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Casaletto |first=Lucas |date=2024-12-03 |title=Ford government's Ontario Place redevelopment costs have ballooned by $1.8B, process was unfair and subjective: AG |url=https://toronto.citynews.ca/2024/12/03/ontario-place-auditor-general-report-science-centre-costs-doug-ford-government/ |access-date=2024-12-29 |website=CityNews Toronto |language=en}}</ref>
On July 10, Andrew Suboch, a "a personal injury and insurance lawyer" who had served as chair of the Justices of the Peace Appointments Advisory Committee (JPAAC), informed the JPAAC that he was resigning immediately after an article in the ''Globe'' revealed that Suboch was another of French's "long-time" friends whose sons played lacrosse together for many years.<ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20190710"/><ref name="theglobeandmail_Stone_20190625"/>

According to a July 4, 2019, article in the ''Toronto Star'', John Fraser, interim Ontario Liberal leader, called for a "formal probe" into French's "involvement in appointments" to be undertaken by J. David Wake—Ontario's integrity commissioner—in order "to clear the air and restore public confidence". He asked that Ford "make any findings public" because of the "tremendous influence" French had in Ford's government.<ref name="thestar_Ferguson_20190704">{{Cite news | first = Rob | last = Ferguson | title = Liberals call on Ford to request ethics investigation into appointments | url = https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2019/07/04/liberals-call-on-ford-to-request-ethics-investigation-into-appointments.html | work = The Toronto Star | date = July 4, 2019 | access-date = July 11, 2019 | archive-date = July 11, 2019 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190711040455/https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2019/07/04/liberals-call-on-ford-to-request-ethics-investigation-into-appointments.html | url-status = live }}</ref>


===COVID-19 pandemic=== ===COVID-19 pandemic===
{{further|COVID-19 pandemic in Ontario}}{{Update section|date=March 2021}} {{Main article|COVID-19 pandemic in Ontario}}


==== Initial outbreak ==== ==== Initial outbreak ====
In December 2019, an outbreak of ] (COVID-19) was first identified in ], ], China; it spread worldwide and was recognized as a ] by the ] (WHO) on March 11, 2020.<ref name="WHOpandemic2">{{cite web |url=https://www.who.int/dg/speeches/detail/who-director-general-s-opening-remarks-at-the-media-briefing-on-covid-19---11-march-2020 |title=WHO Director-General's opening remarks at the media briefing on COVID-19 – 11 March 2020 |date=March 11, 2020 |publisher=] |access-date=March 11, 2020 |archive-date=March 11, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200311212521/https://www.who.int/dg/speeches/detail/who-director-general-s-opening-remarks-at-the-media-briefing-on-covid-19---11-march-2020 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Coronavirus disease 2019 |url=https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019 |publisher=] |access-date=March 15, 2020 |archive-date=January 30, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200130202553/https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019 |url-status=live }}</ref> The first confirmed ] was in Ontario—reported on January 27, 2020.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Canada's second confirmed presumptive case of coronavirus diagnosed in Canada; first case confirmed|url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/second-presumptive-case-of-coronavirus-diagnosed-in-canada-first-case-confirmed-1.4784799|last=Ho|first=Solarina|website=CTV News|date=January 27, 2020|access-date=January 27, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127171921/https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/second-presumptive-case-of-coronavirus-diagnosed-in-canada-first-case-confirmed-1.4784799|archive-date=January 27, 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> In December 2019, an outbreak of ] (COVID-19) was first identified in ], ], China; it spread worldwide and was recognized as a ] by the ] (WHO) on March 11, 2020.<ref name="WHOpandemic2">{{cite web |url=https://www.who.int/dg/speeches/detail/who-director-general-s-opening-remarks-at-the-media-briefing-on-covid-19---11-march-2020 |title=WHO Director-General's opening remarks at the media briefing on COVID-19 – 11 March 2020 |date=March 11, 2020 |publisher=] |access-date=March 11, 2020 |archive-date=March 11, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200311212521/https://www.who.int/dg/speeches/detail/who-director-general-s-opening-remarks-at-the-media-briefing-on-covid-19---11-march-2020 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Coronavirus disease 2019 |url=https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019 |publisher=] |access-date=March 15, 2020 |archive-date=January 30, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200130202553/https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019 |url-status=live }}</ref> The first confirmed ] was in Ontario—reported on January 27, 2020.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Canada's second confirmed presumptive case of coronavirus diagnosed in Canada; first case confirmed|url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/second-presumptive-case-of-coronavirus-diagnosed-in-canada-first-case-confirmed-1.4784799|last=Ho|first=Solarina|website=CTV News|date=January 27, 2020|access-date=January 27, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127171921/https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/second-presumptive-case-of-coronavirus-diagnosed-in-canada-first-case-confirmed-1.4784799|archive-date=January 27, 2020|url-status=live}}</ref>


On March 17, Ford declared a state of emergency in Ontario,<ref name="emergency">{{cite news |last1=Rodrigues |first1=Gabby |title=Ontario government declares state of emergency amid coronavirus pandemic |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/6688074/ontario-doug-ford-coronavirus-covid-19-march-17/ |access-date=17 March 2020 |work=Global News |agency=Corus Entertainment |date=March 17, 2020 |language=en-CA |archive-date=May 26, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200526231729/https://globalnews.ca/news/6688074/ontario-doug-ford-coronavirus-covid-19-march-17/ |url-status=live }}</ref> closing bars and restaurants (with the exception of take-out and delivery services), as well as libraries, theatres, cinemas, schools and daycares and all public gatherings of more than 50 people (later reduced to 5 people on March 28).<ref name="death">{{cite web |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/coronavirus-covid-19-ontario-tuesday-1.5500006 |title=1st death confirmed in Ontario as province declares state of emergency over COVID-19 &#124; CBC News |access-date=2020-03-17 |archive-date=September 24, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200924012022/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/coronavirus-covid-19-ontario-tuesday-1.5500006 |url-status=live }}</ref> Furthermore, the government announced on March 17 that Ontario had "some evidence of community transmission" of COVID-19.<ref name="urlToronto waking up to new reality amid evidence of COVID-19 community spread | CBC News">{{cite web |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-waking-up-to-new-reality-amid-evidence-of-covid-19-community-spread-1.5499768 |title=Toronto waking up to new reality amid 'evidence' of COVID-19 community spread| first=Lauren| last=Pelley| url-status=live| archive-url=https://archive.today/20200320015455/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-waking-up-to-new-reality-amid-evidence-of-covid-19-community-spread-1.5499768| archive-date=March 20, 2020| date=March 17, 2020 |access-date=2020-03-17}}</ref> On March 17, Ford declared a state of emergency in Ontario,<ref name="emergency">{{cite news |last1=Rodrigues |first1=Gabby |title=Ontario government declares state of emergency amid coronavirus pandemic |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/6688074/ontario-doug-ford-coronavirus-covid-19-march-17/ |access-date=March 17, 2020 |work=Global News |agency=Corus Entertainment |date=March 17, 2020 |language=en-CA |archive-date=May 26, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200526231729/https://globalnews.ca/news/6688074/ontario-doug-ford-coronavirus-covid-19-march-17/ |url-status=live }}</ref> closing bars and restaurants (with the exception of take-out and delivery services), as well as libraries, theatres, cinemas, schools and daycares and all public gatherings of more than 50 people (later reduced to 5 people on March 28).<ref name="death">{{cite web |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/coronavirus-covid-19-ontario-tuesday-1.5500006 |title=1st death confirmed in Ontario as province declares state of emergency over COVID-19 &#124; CBC News |access-date=March 17, 2020 |archive-date=September 24, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200924012022/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/coronavirus-covid-19-ontario-tuesday-1.5500006 |url-status=live }}</ref> Furthermore, the government announced on March 17 that Ontario had "some evidence of community transmission" of COVID-19.<ref name="urlToronto waking up to new reality amid evidence of COVID-19 community spread | CBC News">{{cite web |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-waking-up-to-new-reality-amid-evidence-of-covid-19-community-spread-1.5499768 |title=Toronto waking up to new reality amid 'evidence' of COVID-19 community spread| first=Lauren| last=Pelley| url-status=live| archive-url=https://archive.today/20200320015455/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-waking-up-to-new-reality-amid-evidence-of-covid-19-community-spread-1.5499768| archive-date=March 20, 2020| date=March 17, 2020 |access-date=March 17, 2020}}</ref>


On March 23, Ford announced that all "non-essential" businesses be ordered closed starting 11:59&nbsp;p.m. On March 24. Ford also stated that schools would remain closed past the original April 6 opening date (on May 19 it was announced that schools would remain closed until the following school year in September).<ref>{{cite web| url = https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-schools-will-not-reopen-april-6-premier-says-1.4864551| title = Ontario schools will not reopen April 6, premier says| date = March 23, 2020| access-date = March 23, 2020| language = en| archive-date = March 23, 2020| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200323185123/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-schools-will-not-reopen-april-6-premier-says-1.4864551| url-status = live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url = https://nationalpost.com/news/covid-19-ontario-and-quebec-order-non-essential-businesses-closed-after-spike-in-coronavirus-totals| title = COVID-19: Ontario and Quebec order non-essential businesses closed after spike in coronavirus totals| date = March 23, 2020| access-date = March 23, 2020| archive-date = March 18, 2021| archive-url = http://wayback.vefsafn.is/wayback/20210318183825/https://nationalpost.com/news/covid%2D19%2Dontario%2Dand%2Dquebec%2Dorder%2Dnon%2Dessential%2Dbusinesses%2Dclosed%2Dafter%2Dspike%2Din%2Dcoronavirus%2Dtotals| url-status = live}}</ref> A list of 74 "essential" businesses was published later in the day on March 23.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ford-says-list-of-essential-businesses-amid-covid-19-pandemic-is-adjustable-1.4865528|title=Ford says list of essential businesses amid COVID-19 pandemic is 'adjustable'|date=2020-03-24|website=CTV News Toronto|language=en|access-date=2020-03-25|archive-date=March 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200325181806/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ford-says-list-of-essential-businesses-amid-covid-19-pandemic-is-adjustable-1.4865528|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-list-essential-businesses-1.5507687|title=Ontario government releases list of essential workplaces that can remain open|date=2020-03-23|website=CBC News|access-date=2020-03-23|archive-date=March 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200325165046/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-list-essential-businesses-1.5507687|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-orders-all-non-essential-businesses-to-shut-down-1.4864492|title=Ontario orders all non-essential businesses to shut down|date=2020-03-23|website=CTV News Toronto|language=en|access-date=2020-03-23|archive-date=March 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200325193928/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-orders-all-non-essential-businesses-to-shut-down-1.4864492|url-status=live}}</ref> On March 23, Ford announced that all "non-essential" businesses be ordered closed starting 11:59&nbsp;p.m. On March 24, Ford also stated that schools would remain closed past the original April 6 opening date (on May 19 it was announced that schools would remain closed until the following school year in September).<ref>{{cite web| url = https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-schools-will-not-reopen-april-6-premier-says-1.4864551| title = Ontario schools will not reopen April 6, premier says| date = March 23, 2020| access-date = March 23, 2020| language = en| archive-date = March 23, 2020| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200323185123/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-schools-will-not-reopen-april-6-premier-says-1.4864551| url-status = live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url = https://nationalpost.com/news/covid-19-ontario-and-quebec-order-non-essential-businesses-closed-after-spike-in-coronavirus-totals| title = COVID-19: Ontario and Quebec order non-essential businesses closed after spike in coronavirus totals| date = March 23, 2020| access-date = March 23, 2020| archive-date = March 18, 2021| archive-url = http://wayback.vefsafn.is/wayback/20210318183825/https://nationalpost.com/news/covid%2D19%2Dontario%2Dand%2Dquebec%2Dorder%2Dnon%2Dessential%2Dbusinesses%2Dclosed%2Dafter%2Dspike%2Din%2Dcoronavirus%2Dtotals| url-status = live}}</ref> A list of 74 "essential" businesses was published later in the day on March 23.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ford-says-list-of-essential-businesses-amid-covid-19-pandemic-is-adjustable-1.4865528|title=Ford says list of essential businesses amid COVID-19 pandemic is 'adjustable'|date=March 24, 2020|website=CTV News Toronto|language=en|access-date=March 25, 2020|archive-date=March 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200325181806/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ford-says-list-of-essential-businesses-amid-covid-19-pandemic-is-adjustable-1.4865528|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-list-essential-businesses-1.5507687|title=Ontario government releases list of essential workplaces that can remain open|date=March 23, 2020|website=CBC News|access-date=March 23, 2020|archive-date=March 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200325165046/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-list-essential-businesses-1.5507687|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-orders-all-non-essential-businesses-to-shut-down-1.4864492|title=Ontario orders all non-essential businesses to shut down|date=March 23, 2020|website=CTV News Toronto|language=en|access-date=March 23, 2020|archive-date=March 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200325193928/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-orders-all-non-essential-businesses-to-shut-down-1.4864492|url-status=live}}</ref>


On March 25, Ford and Finance Minister ] introduced a $17-billion response package that includes an influx of cash for the health sector, direct payments to parents and tax breaks for businesses.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/2020-fiscal-update-1.5510186|title=Ontario introduces $17B COVID-19 package; more than doubles deficit in fiscal update|publisher=cbc.ca|date=March 25, 2020|access-date=March 26, 2020|archive-date=March 26, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200326180709/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/2020-fiscal-update-1.5510186|url-status=live}}</ref> On March 25, Ford and Finance Minister ] introduced a $17-billion response package that includes an influx of cash for the health sector, direct payments to parents and tax breaks for businesses.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/2020-fiscal-update-1.5510186|title=Ontario introduces $17B COVID-19 package; more than doubles deficit in fiscal update|publisher=cbc.ca|date=March 25, 2020|access-date=March 26, 2020|archive-date=March 26, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200326180709/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/2020-fiscal-update-1.5510186|url-status=live}}</ref>
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On April 9, 2021, Ford received his first dose of the ] at a local pharmacy in Toronto, and encouraged eligible Ontarians to get vaccinated.<ref>{{cite web|date=April 9, 2021|title=Ontario Premier Doug Ford receives first dose of AstraZeneca vaccine|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-premier-doug-ford-receives-first-dose-of-astrazeneca-vaccine-1.5380718|publisher=ctvnews.ca|access-date=April 23, 2021|archive-date=April 23, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210423210834/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-premier-doug-ford-receives-first-dose-of-astrazeneca-vaccine-1.5380718|url-status=live}}</ref> On April 9, 2021, Ford received his first dose of the ] at a local pharmacy in Toronto, and encouraged eligible Ontarians to get vaccinated.<ref>{{cite web|date=April 9, 2021|title=Ontario Premier Doug Ford receives first dose of AstraZeneca vaccine|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-premier-doug-ford-receives-first-dose-of-astrazeneca-vaccine-1.5380718|publisher=ctvnews.ca|access-date=April 23, 2021|archive-date=April 23, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210423210834/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-premier-doug-ford-receives-first-dose-of-astrazeneca-vaccine-1.5380718|url-status=live}}</ref>


Amid growing case numbers in mid-2021, the government moved to introduce a third province-wide stay at home order. As part of the response, Ford announced on April 16, 2021, that outdoor amenities including playgrounds would be closed, and that he would be authorizing police to require pedestrians and drivers to explain why they are not at home and provide their home address and other relevant details.<ref>{{Cite web|title=COVID-19: Provincial borders to close, outdoor amenities shuttered as Ontario announces new restrictions|url=https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/covid-19-ontario-reports-record-4812-new-cases-intense-cabinet-talks-over-new-restrictions|access-date=2021-04-19|website=ottawacitizen|language=en-CA|archive-date=April 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421233331/https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/covid-19-ontario-reports-record-4812-new-cases-intense-cabinet-talks-over-new-restrictions|url-status=live}}</ref> The regulations raised concerns about a re-legalization of ].<ref>{{Cite web|title=COVID-19: Ontario's temporary increased police powers raise concerns about random stops, carding|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/7765412/covid-19-ontario-temporary-police-powers-carding/|access-date=2021-04-19|website=Global News|language=en-US|archive-date=April 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210425083530/https://globalnews.ca/news/7765412/covid-19-ontario-temporary-police-powers-carding/|url-status=live}}</ref> The government experienced significant backlash with the new enforcement measures, with some commentators – such as the '']''<nowiki/>'s ], a former PC politician<ref>{{Cite news|title=Randall Denley: Doug Ford gives Ontario police-state tactics instead of COVID measures that actually work|url=https://nationalpost.com/opinion/randall-denley-doug-ford-gives-ontario-police-state-tactics-instead-of-covid-measures-that-actually-work|access-date=2021-04-19|newspaper=National Post|date=April 16, 2021 |language=en-CA|archive-date=May 13, 2021|archive-url=http://wayback.vefsafn.is/wayback/20210513165349/https://nationalpost.com/opinion/randall%2Ddenley%2Ddoug%2Dford%2Dgives%2Dontario%2Dpolice%2Dstate%2Dtactics%2Dinstead%2Dof%2Dcovid%2Dmeasures%2Dthat%2Dactually%2Dwork|url-status=live|last1=Denley |first1=Randall }}</ref> – equating the province to a "]"<ref>{{Cite web|title=Ontario introduces new travel restrictions and police powers and some say it's a police state|url=https://www.blogto.com/city/2021/04/ontario-travel-restrictions-police-state/|access-date=2021-04-19|website=www.blogto.com|language=en|archive-date=April 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422222854/https://www.blogto.com/city/2021/04/ontario-travel-restrictions-police-state/|url-status=live}}</ref> Members of the Ontario COVID-19 Science Table described the new restrictions as "absolute madness", and not based on science questioning the need to restrict "safe options from people as you do nothing to impact the places where the disease is spreading".<ref>{{Cite news|title=Ontario's new COVID-19 restrictions have science 'absolutely upside-down,' experts say|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/7765156/ontario-covid-19-restrictions-ford-david-fisman/|access-date=2021-04-24|website=Global News|language=en-US|archive-date=April 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421142111/https://globalnews.ca/news/7765156/ontario-covid-19-restrictions-ford-david-fisman/|url-status=live}}</ref> After dozens of police services across the province announced that they would refuse to enforce the new measures,<ref>{{Cite web|title=WARMINGTON: Ontario police chiefs say 'no thanks' to Ford's new COVID random stop law|url=https://torontosun.com/news/local-news/warmington-many-police-chiefs-say-no-thanks-to-fords-new-covid-random-stop-law|access-date=2021-04-19|website=torontosun|language=en-CA|archive-date=April 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421230344/https://torontosun.com/news/local-news/warmington-many-police-chiefs-say-no-thanks-to-fords-new-covid-random-stop-law|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford promptly rolled back the new enforcement provisions the next day and reopened playgrounds, while keeping other outdoor amenities closed.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Perkel|first=Colin|date=2021-04-17|title=Ontario walks back new pandemic police powers following widespread backlash|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-walks-back-new-pandemic-police-powers-following-widespread-backlash-1.5391464|access-date=2021-04-19|website=Toronto|language=en|archive-date=April 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421230344/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-walks-back-new-pandemic-police-powers-following-widespread-backlash-1.5391464|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-04-17|title=Premier Ford reverses decision to close playgrounds amid backlash|url=https://www.cp24.com/news/premier-ford-reverses-decision-to-close-playgrounds-amid-backlash-1.5391532|access-date=2021-04-24|website=CP24|language=en|archive-date=April 24, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210424160834/https://www.cp24.com/news/premier-ford-reverses-decision-to-close-playgrounds-amid-backlash-1.5391532|url-status=live}}</ref> Amid growing case numbers in mid-2021, the government moved to introduce a third province-wide stay at home order. As part of the response, Ford announced on April 16, 2021, that outdoor amenities including playgrounds would be closed, and that he would be authorizing police to require pedestrians and drivers to explain why they are not at home and provide their home address and other relevant details.<ref>{{Cite web|title=COVID-19: Provincial borders to close, outdoor amenities shuttered as Ontario announces new restrictions|url=https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/covid-19-ontario-reports-record-4812-new-cases-intense-cabinet-talks-over-new-restrictions|access-date=April 19, 2021|website=ottawacitizen|language=en-CA|archive-date=April 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421233331/https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/covid-19-ontario-reports-record-4812-new-cases-intense-cabinet-talks-over-new-restrictions|url-status=live}}</ref> The regulations raised concerns about a re-legalization of ].<ref>{{Cite web|title=COVID-19: Ontario's temporary increased police powers raise concerns about random stops, carding|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/7765412/covid-19-ontario-temporary-police-powers-carding/|access-date=April 19, 2021|website=Global News|language=en-US|archive-date=April 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210425083530/https://globalnews.ca/news/7765412/covid-19-ontario-temporary-police-powers-carding/|url-status=live}}</ref> The government experienced significant backlash with the new enforcement measures, with some commentators – such as the '']''<nowiki/>'s ], a former PC politician<ref>{{Cite news|title=Randall Denley: Doug Ford gives Ontario police-state tactics instead of COVID measures that actually work|url=https://nationalpost.com/opinion/randall-denley-doug-ford-gives-ontario-police-state-tactics-instead-of-covid-measures-that-actually-work|access-date=April 19, 2021|newspaper=National Post|date=April 16, 2021 |language=en-CA|archive-date=May 13, 2021|archive-url=http://wayback.vefsafn.is/wayback/20210513165349/https://nationalpost.com/opinion/randall%2Ddenley%2Ddoug%2Dford%2Dgives%2Dontario%2Dpolice%2Dstate%2Dtactics%2Dinstead%2Dof%2Dcovid%2Dmeasures%2Dthat%2Dactually%2Dwork|url-status=live|last1=Denley |first1=Randall }}</ref> – equating the province to a "]"<ref>{{Cite web|title=Ontario introduces new travel restrictions and police powers and some say it's a police state|url=https://www.blogto.com/city/2021/04/ontario-travel-restrictions-police-state/|access-date=April 19, 2021|website=www.blogto.com|language=en|archive-date=April 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422222854/https://www.blogto.com/city/2021/04/ontario-travel-restrictions-police-state/|url-status=live}}</ref> Members of the Ontario COVID-19 Science Table described the new restrictions as "absolute madness", and not based on science questioning the need to restrict "safe options from people as you do nothing to impact the places where the disease is spreading".<ref>{{Cite news|title=Ontario's new COVID-19 restrictions have science 'absolutely upside-down,' experts say|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/7765156/ontario-covid-19-restrictions-ford-david-fisman/|access-date=April 24, 2021|website=Global News|language=en-US|archive-date=April 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421142111/https://globalnews.ca/news/7765156/ontario-covid-19-restrictions-ford-david-fisman/|url-status=live}}</ref> After dozens of police services across the province announced that they would refuse to enforce the new measures,<ref>{{Cite web|title=WARMINGTON: Ontario police chiefs say 'no thanks' to Ford's new COVID random stop law|url=https://torontosun.com/news/local-news/warmington-many-police-chiefs-say-no-thanks-to-fords-new-covid-random-stop-law|access-date=April 19, 2021|website=torontosun|language=en-CA|archive-date=April 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421230344/https://torontosun.com/news/local-news/warmington-many-police-chiefs-say-no-thanks-to-fords-new-covid-random-stop-law|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford promptly rolled back the new enforcement provisions the next day and reopened playgrounds, while keeping other outdoor amenities closed.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Perkel|first=Colin|date=April 17, 2021|title=Ontario walks back new pandemic police powers following widespread backlash|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-walks-back-new-pandemic-police-powers-following-widespread-backlash-1.5391464|access-date=April 19, 2021|website=Toronto|language=en|archive-date=April 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421230344/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-walks-back-new-pandemic-police-powers-following-widespread-backlash-1.5391464|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=April 17, 2021|title=Premier Ford reverses decision to close playgrounds amid backlash|url=https://www.cp24.com/news/premier-ford-reverses-decision-to-close-playgrounds-amid-backlash-1.5391532|access-date=April 24, 2021|website=CP24|language=en|archive-date=April 24, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210424160834/https://www.cp24.com/news/premier-ford-reverses-decision-to-close-playgrounds-amid-backlash-1.5391532|url-status=live}}</ref>


Over the weekend following the introduction of new orders, calls for Ford's resignation over his handling of the COVID-19 crisis grew,<ref>{{Cite web|last=DiMatteo|first=Enzo|date=2021-04-20|title=Doug Ford goes MIA as calls for his resignation grow louder|url=https://nowtoronto.com/news/doug-ford-goes-mia-as-calls-for-his-resignation-grow-louder|access-date=2021-04-24|website=NOW Magazine|archive-date=April 24, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210424203303/https://nowtoronto.com/news/doug-ford-goes-mia-as-calls-for-his-resignation-grow-louder|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-04-20|title=Don Martin: It's time for adult supervision or a premier replacement in Doug Ford's Ontario|url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/don-martin-it-s-time-for-adult-supervision-or-a-premier-replacement-in-doug-ford-s-ontario-1.5394887|access-date=2021-04-24|website=CTVNews|language=en|archive-date=April 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422233318/https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/don-martin-it-s-time-for-adult-supervision-or-a-premier-replacement-in-doug-ford-s-ontario-1.5394887|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Moscrop|first=David|date=2021-04-18|title=Opinion: Doug Ford must resign|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2021/04/18/ontario-covid-lockdown-doug-ford-canada/|url-status=live|newspaper=Washington Post|access-date=April 24, 2021|archive-date=April 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421201746/https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2021/04/18/ontario-covid-lockdown-doug-ford-canada/}}</ref> In April 2021, Ford revealed that he had been in isolation following contact with one of his staffers, who had contracted COVID-19.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-04-20|title=Ontario Premier Doug Ford isolating in Toronto after staffer tests positive for COVID-19|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-premier-doug-ford-isolating-in-toronto-after-staffer-tests-positive-for-covid-19-1.5395757|access-date=2021-04-24|website=Toronto|language=en|archive-date=April 24, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210424004422/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-premier-doug-ford-isolating-in-toronto-after-staffer-tests-positive-for-covid-19-1.5395757|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford announced on April 30, 2021, that he had asked the federal government to stop international students from coming into the province in an effort to curb the third wave.<ref>{{cite news |last1=MacCharles |first1=Tonda |title=Doug Ford asks Trudeau to stop all international students from coming to Ontario |url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/federal/2021/04/30/doug-ford-asks-trudeau-to-stop-all-international-students-from-coming-to-ontario.html |agency=Toronto Star |access-date=April 30, 2021 |archive-date=April 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210430200925/https://www.thestar.com/politics/federal/2021/04/30/doug-ford-asks-trudeau-to-stop-all-international-students-from-coming-to-ontario.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Over the weekend following the introduction of new orders, calls for Ford's resignation over his handling of the COVID-19 crisis grew,<ref>{{Cite web|last=DiMatteo|first=Enzo|date=April 20, 2021|title=Doug Ford goes MIA as calls for his resignation grow louder|url=https://nowtoronto.com/news/doug-ford-goes-mia-as-calls-for-his-resignation-grow-louder|access-date=April 24, 2021|website=NOW Magazine|archive-date=April 24, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210424203303/https://nowtoronto.com/news/doug-ford-goes-mia-as-calls-for-his-resignation-grow-louder|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=April 20, 2021|title=Don Martin: It's time for adult supervision or a premier replacement in Doug Ford's Ontario|url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/don-martin-it-s-time-for-adult-supervision-or-a-premier-replacement-in-doug-ford-s-ontario-1.5394887|access-date=April 24, 2021|website=CTVNews|language=en|archive-date=April 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422233318/https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/don-martin-it-s-time-for-adult-supervision-or-a-premier-replacement-in-doug-ford-s-ontario-1.5394887|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Moscrop|first=David|date=April 18, 2021|title=Opinion: Doug Ford must resign|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2021/04/18/ontario-covid-lockdown-doug-ford-canada/|url-status=live|newspaper=Washington Post|access-date=April 24, 2021|archive-date=April 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421201746/https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2021/04/18/ontario-covid-lockdown-doug-ford-canada/}}</ref> In April 2021, Ford revealed that he had been in isolation following contact with one of his staffers, who had contracted COVID-19.<ref>{{Cite web|date=April 20, 2021|title=Ontario Premier Doug Ford isolating in Toronto after staffer tests positive for COVID-19|url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-premier-doug-ford-isolating-in-toronto-after-staffer-tests-positive-for-covid-19-1.5395757|access-date=April 24, 2021|website=Toronto|language=en|archive-date=April 24, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210424004422/https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-premier-doug-ford-isolating-in-toronto-after-staffer-tests-positive-for-covid-19-1.5395757|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford announced on April 30, 2021, that he had asked the federal government to stop international students from coming into the province in an effort to curb the third wave.<ref>{{cite news |last1=MacCharles |first1=Tonda |title=Doug Ford asks Trudeau to stop all international students from coming to Ontario |url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/federal/2021/04/30/doug-ford-asks-trudeau-to-stop-all-international-students-from-coming-to-ontario.html |agency=Toronto Star |access-date=April 30, 2021 |archive-date=April 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210430200925/https://www.thestar.com/politics/federal/2021/04/30/doug-ford-asks-trudeau-to-stop-all-international-students-from-coming-to-ontario.html |url-status=live }}</ref>


==== Omicron variant ==== ==== Omicron variant ====
During the emergence of the ] of COVID-19 in December 2021 and January 2022, Ford's government announced in December 2021 new restrictions on indoor settings.<ref name="auto1">{{cite news |date=15 December 2021 |title=Ontario opens up booster shots for 18 and up starting Monday, announces new capacity limits |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/covid-19-ontario-dec-15-2021-booster-announcement-1.6286537 |work=CBC News |location=Toronto |access-date=13 November 2022}}</ref> After growing calls for third or booster doses of COVID-19 vaccines, the government allowed all Ontarians over 18 years of age to receive a third dose on December 20, 2021.<ref>{{cite news |last=Thomas |first=Ashleigh-Rae |date=20 December 2021 |title=Booster shots are now available for people 18 plus in Ontario, but things are off to a bumpy start |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2021/12/20/third-covid-19-shots-are-now-available-for-people-18-plus-heres-what-finding-one-looked-like-this-morning.html |work=Toronto Star |access-date=13 November 2022}}</ref><ref name="auto1"/> During the emergence of the ] of COVID-19 in December 2021 and January 2022, Ford's government announced in December 2021 new restrictions on indoor settings.<ref name="auto1">{{cite news |date=December 15, 2021 |title=Ontario opens up booster shots for 18 and up starting Monday, announces new capacity limits |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/covid-19-ontario-dec-15-2021-booster-announcement-1.6286537 |work=CBC News |location=Toronto |access-date=November 13, 2022}}</ref> After growing calls for third or booster doses of COVID-19 vaccines, the government allowed all Ontarians over 18 years of age to receive a third dose on December 20, 2021.<ref>{{cite news |last=Thomas |first=Ashleigh-Rae |date=December 20, 2021 |title=Booster shots are now available for people 18 plus in Ontario, but things are off to a bumpy start |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2021/12/20/third-covid-19-shots-are-now-available-for-people-18-plus-heres-what-finding-one-looked-like-this-morning.html |work=Toronto Star |access-date=November 13, 2022}}</ref><ref name="auto1"/>


On January 3, 2022, Ford announced that Ontario would be moving into modified Step 2 on January 5, closing indoor dining, gyms, movie theatres and schools.<ref>{{cite news |title=Indoor dining banned, gyms to close Wednesday as Ontario announces new COVID-19 restrictions |url=https://toronto.citynews.ca/2022/01/02/ontario-covid19-restrictions-doug-ford/ |date=2 January 2021|access-date=3 January 2022 |agency=CityNews}}</ref> On January 3, 2022, Ford announced that Ontario would be moving into modified Step 2 on January 5, closing indoor dining, gyms, movie theatres and schools.<ref>{{cite news |title=Indoor dining banned, gyms to close Wednesday as Ontario announces new COVID-19 restrictions |url=https://toronto.citynews.ca/2022/01/02/ontario-covid19-restrictions-doug-ford/ |date=January 2, 2021|access-date=January 3, 2022 |agency=CityNews}}</ref> These restrictions were lifted on January 31.<ref>{{cite web |last1= |first1= |title=Ontario to begin easing COVID-19 restrictions on Jan. 31, with plan to lift most measures by mid-March |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/covid-19-ontario-jan-20-2022-restrictions-lifting-ford-1.6321329 |website=CBC News |access-date=May 22, 2023 |date=January 20, 2022}}</ref> What followed was the end of all vaccine mandates on March 14, the end of most mask mandates on March 21, and the end of all COVID-19 measures (including the remaining mask requirements) on April 27.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Fox |first1=Chris |title=This is when Ontario will lift its remaining COVID-19 restrictions |url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/this-is-when-ontario-will-lift-its-remaining-covid-19-restrictions-1.5812199 |website=CTV News |access-date=May 22, 2023 |date=March 9, 2022}}</ref>

On September 7, 2023, the Ombudsman of Ontario's Investigation into the Ministry of Long-Term Care's oversight into long-term care homes through inspection and enforcement during the COVID-19 pandemic was released.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.ombudsman.on.ca/resources/news/press-releases/2023/long-term-care-inspection-system-collapsed-during-deadly-first-weeks-of-covid-19-pandemic,-ontario-o | title=Long-term care inspection system collapsed during deadly first weeks of COVID-19 pandemic, Ontario O - Ontario Ombudsman }}</ref> The report detailed the collapse of the LTC inspection system and how the Ministry failed to protect residents by ceasing inspections for the first 7–12 weeks of the pandemic, and by only applying low-level enforcement action for serious infractions. It noted that the Fixing Long-Term Care Act, which came into force in April 2022, could help long-term care homes to be better prepared for future pandemics.


=== Cabinet mandate letters === === Cabinet mandate letters ===


Mandate letters requested by the ] through a freedom of information request were not released to the public, despite being ordered to by the Ontario information and privacy commissioner in 2019.<ref name="cbc.ca">{{cite news |last=Crawley |first=Mike |date=11 September 2021 |title=Doug Ford's government has lost more than a dozen court cases. Here's a list |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-government-court-cases-lost-doug-ford-1.6168318 |work=CBC News |location=Toronto |access-date=13 November 2022}}</ref> The final appeal of the decision is now being sent to the ].<ref name="NicoleBrockBankMandateLetters">{{cite news |last=Brockbank |first=Nicole |date=19 May 2022 |title=Canada's top court to hear appeal on whether or not to keep Doug Ford's mandate letters secret |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/supreme-court-mandate-letter-appeal-leave-decision-1.6457956 |work=CBC News |location=Toronto |access-date=13 November 2022}}</ref> Mandate letters requested by the ] through a freedom of information request were not released to the public, despite being ordered to by the Ontario information and privacy commissioner in 2019.<ref name="cbc.ca">{{cite news |last=Crawley |first=Mike |date=September 11, 2021 |title=Doug Ford's government has lost more than a dozen court cases. Here's a list |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-government-court-cases-lost-doug-ford-1.6168318 |work=CBC News |location=Toronto |access-date=November 13, 2022}}</ref> The final appeal of the decision is now being sent to the ].<ref name="NicoleBrockBankMandateLetters">{{cite news |last=Brockbank |first=Nicole |date=May 19, 2022 |title=Canada's top court to hear appeal on whether or not to keep Doug Ford's mandate letters secret |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/supreme-court-mandate-letter-appeal-leave-decision-1.6457956 |work=CBC News |location=Toronto |access-date=November 13, 2022}}</ref>


=== First nations relations === === First nations relations ===
In March 2021, Ford publicly accused MPP ] of "jumping the line" to receive his second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, despite being eligible to receive it. Mamakwa went to his riding to receive the vaccine as an attempt to prevent ] amongst his constituents.<ref>{{cite news |last=Sasitharan |first=Kirthana |date=11 March 2021 |title=Ontario NDP calls on Ford to apologize after wrongly accusing Indigenous MPP of vaccine queue-jumping |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ford-apologize-indigenous-mpp-accusing-vaccine-queue-jumping-1.5945897#:~:text=CBC%20News%20Loaded-,Ontario%20NDP%20calls%20on%20Ford%20to%20apologize%20after%20wrongly%20accusing,vaccinate%20vulnerable%2C%20urban%20Indigenous%20people. |work=CBC News |location=Toronto |access-date=13 November 2022}}</ref> On Thursday, 11 March 2021, Ford apologised for his remark<ref>{{cite news |last=Rushowy |first=Kristin |date=12 March 2021 |title=Doug Ford apologizes for accusing Indigenous MPP of jumping the vaccine line |url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2021/03/12/doug-ford-apologizes-for-accusing-indigenous-mpp-of-jumping-the-vaccine-line.html |work=Toronto Star |access-date=13 November 2022}}</ref> and later said he "got a little personal" when throwing the accusation at Mamakwa. Mamakwa did not say that he accepted Ford's apology but stated that he appreciated the call from Ford.<ref name="RoccaPatton2021">{{cite news |last1=Rocca |first1=Ryan |last2=Patton |first2=Jessica |date=14 March 2021 |title=‘I got a little personal, Doug Ford says of suggestion Indigenous MPP jumped vaccine queue |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/7695987/doug-ford-sol-mamakwa-comments/ |work=Global News |location=Canada |access-date=13 November 2022}}</ref> In March 2021, Ford publicly accused MPP ] of "jumping the line" to receive his second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, despite being eligible to receive it. Mamakwa went to his riding to receive the vaccine as an attempt to prevent ] amongst his constituents.<ref>{{cite news |last=Sasitharan |first=Kirthana |date=March 11, 2021 |title=Ontario NDP calls on Ford to apologize after wrongly accusing Indigenous MPP of vaccine queue-jumping |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ford-apologize-indigenous-mpp-accusing-vaccine-queue-jumping-1.5945897 |work=CBC News |location=Toronto |access-date=November 13, 2022}}</ref> On Thursday, March 11, 2021, Ford apologised for his remark<ref>{{cite news |last=Rushowy |first=Kristin |date=March 12, 2021 |title=Doug Ford apologizes for accusing Indigenous MPP of jumping the vaccine line |url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2021/03/12/doug-ford-apologizes-for-accusing-indigenous-mpp-of-jumping-the-vaccine-line.html |work=Toronto Star |access-date=November 13, 2022}}</ref> and later said he "got a little personal" when throwing the accusation at Mamakwa. Mamakwa did not say that he accepted Ford's apology but stated that he appreciated the call from Ford.<ref name="RoccaPatton2021">{{cite news |last1=Rocca |first1=Ryan |last2=Patton |first2=Jessica |date=March 14, 2021 |title='I got a little personal,' Doug Ford says of suggestion Indigenous MPP jumped vaccine queue |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/7695987/doug-ford-sol-mamakwa-comments/ |work=Global News |location=Canada |access-date=November 13, 2022}}</ref>

In September 2021, an Ontario judge issued an injunction on mining in Wiisinin Zaahgi'igan (an area sacred to the ] peoples).<ref name="Turner2021">{{cite news |last=Turner |first=Logan |date=September 7, 2021 |title=First Nation in northwestern Ontario granted temporary injunction to prevent mineral exploration |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/thunder-bay/ginoogaming-injunction-granted-1.6164824 |work=CBC News |location=Thunder Bay |access-date=November 13, 2022}}</ref> The judge ruled that the Ontario government did not consult with the Ginoogaming as is their constitutional duty.<ref name="cbc.ca"/>

Ford's 2024 ''Reducing Gridlock, Saving you Time Act'' removed the requirement for future Indigenous consultation for the upcoming highway 413 in a possible contravention of Ontario's Environmental Assessment Act. In addition, the Indigenous consultation period for the bill was only 30 days, decried by the regional chief as 'too short'.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-11-27 |title=Indigenous consultation among legal risks to expediting Highway 413: draft cabinet doc |url=https://www.thetrillium.ca/news/indigenous-rural-and-northern-affairs/indigenous-consultation-among-legal-risks-to-expediting-highway-413-draft-cabinet-doc-9872685 |access-date=2024-12-29 |website=The Trillium |language=en}}</ref>

===2022 general election===
{{main|2022 Ontario general election}}
]
Ford led the Progressive Conservatives to another ] in the ]. The PCs gained seven more seats than they had won in 2018, with an increased share of the vote.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Powers |first=Lucas |date=June 3, 2022 |title=Ontario's Progressive Conservatives sail to 2nd majority, NDP and Liberal leaders say they will resign |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-election-2022-results-ford-horwath-del-duca-1.6473595 |website=]}}</ref>

==Political endorsements and ideology==
Ford actively supported the two Toronto mayoral campaigns of his brother ] and former ] chief ].<ref>{{cite news |title=Doug Ford once branded himself Toronto's 'co-mayor.' What did he and brother Rob accomplish at City Hall? {{!}} National Post |url=https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/doug-ford-once-branded-himself-torontos-co-mayor-what-did-he-and-brother-rob-accomplish-at-city-hall |publisher=National Post |date=May 25, 2018 |language=en-CA |access-date=December 24, 2018 }}</ref> In federal politics, Ford supports the ] and several provincial conservative parties, including the Alberta ].<ref>{{cite news |title=Doug Ford, Andrew Scheer join forces against carbon tax {{!}} CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-andrew-scheer-1.4882637 |work=CBC |date=October 30, 2018 |language=en |access-date=December 24, 2018 |archive-date=December 22, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181222204400/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-andrew-scheer-1.4882637 |url-status=live }}</ref> However, federal Conservative leaders ]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Thompson |first=Stuart |date=9 Oct 2019 |title=Exclusive poll reveals 'Doug Ford factor' a big problem for Scheer's Conservatives in Ontario |url=https://nationalpost.com/news/politics/election-2019/exclusive-poll-reveals-doug-ford-factor-a-big-problem-for-scheers-conservatives-in-ontario |website=National Post}}</ref> and later leader ] attempted to distance themselves from him. Ford did not campaign for O'Toole during the ] campaign.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bureau |first=Alex Boutilier Ottawa |date=2020-10-18 |title=Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole takes a shot at Ontario government's management of pandemic restrictions |url=https://www.toronto.com/news/conservative-leader-erin-o-toole-takes-a-shot-at-ontario-government-s-management-of-pandemic/article_a4d11fa8-6549-5bbe-872d-a3b12fcd8ec1.html |access-date=2024-11-28 |website=Toronto.com |language=en}}</ref>
], former leader of the Conservative Party of Canada]]
In 2018 and 2019, Ford was seen as a staunch critic of the federal government of ] ] ]. Ford opposed the Trudeau government's imposed carbon tax and urged voters to vote out the Trudeau-led Liberals in the ].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Jeffords |first1=Shawn |title=Doug Ford says he's not looking to become prime minister, focusing on Ontario |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/4681159/doug-ford-prime-minister-ontario/ |website=Global News |access-date=May 23, 2023 |date=November 20, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Benzie |first1=Robert |title=Ford says voters should 'get rid of Justin Trudeau' next year |url=https://www.therecord.com/ts/politics/provincial/2018/10/30/ford-says-voters-should-get-rid-of-justin-trudeau-next-year.html |website=The Record |access-date=May 23, 2023 |date=October 30, 2018}}</ref> However, since 2020, journalists have noted a change in Ford's attitude towards the Trudeau government. In April 2020, ] of the '']'' wrote Ford "forged an unlikely friendship" with ] ] when combatting the ]; in August of that year, Ford praised Freeland's appointment as ]. Around this time Ford insisted he was not a ] politician.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Delacourt |first1=Susan |title='He's my therapist': How Chrystia Freeland and Doug Ford forged an unlikely friendship in the fight against COVID-19 |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/insight/2020/04/03/hes-my-therapist-how-chrystia-freeland-and-doug-ford-forged-an-unlikely-friendship-in-the-fight-against-covid-19.html |website=Toronto Star |access-date=May 24, 2023 |date=April 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230209051653/https://www.thestar.com/news/insight/2020/04/03/hes-my-therapist-how-chrystia-freeland-and-doug-ford-forged-an-unlikely-friendship-in-the-fight-against-covid-19.html |archive-date=February 9, 2023 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Benzie |first1=Robert |title=Doug Ford praises appointment of 'amazing' Chrystia Freeland as federal finance minister |url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/2020/08/18/doug-ford-praises-appointment-of-amazing-chrystia-freeland-as-federal-finance-minister.html |website=Toronto Star |access-date=May 24, 2023 |date=August 18, 2020}}</ref> In March 2022, ] of '']'' wrote that there was a "political bromance" between Ford and Trudeau.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Ibbitson |first1=John |title=Trudeau and Ford's political bromance is bad news for opposition parties |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-trudeau-and-fords-political-bromance-is-bad-news-for-opposition/ |website=Globe and Mail |access-date=May 24, 2023 |date=March 31, 2022}}</ref> In October 2022, Ford said he supported the Trudeau government's invocation of the '']'' in response to the ].<ref>{{cite web |last1= |first1= |title=Ford says he supported use of Emergencies Act, but Ontario turned down plea for help |url=https://www.cp24.com/news/ford-says-he-supported-use-of-emergencies-act-but-ontario-turned-down-plea-for-help-1.6116435 |website=CP24 |access-date=May 24, 2023 |date=October 19, 2022}}</ref>


After Ford led the Progressive Conservatives to another majority victory in 2022, his political ideology was described as ] by columnists Kelly McParland and Susan Delacourt.<ref>{{cite web |last1=McParland |first1=Kelly |title=Kelly McParland: Centrist Doug Ford sows seeds of a new Conservative dynasty |url=https://nationalpost.com/opinion/kelly-mcparland-centrist-doug-ford-sows-seeds-of-a-new-conservative-dynasty |website=National Post |access-date=May 24, 2023 |date=June 3, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Delacourt |first1=Susan |title=For Doug Ford and Justin Trudeau, centrist policies are more powerful than political labels |url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/political-opinion/2022/06/03/for-doug-ford-and-justin-trudeau-centrist-policies-are-more-powerful-than-political-labels.html |website=Toronto Star |access-date=May 24, 2023 |date=June 3, 2022}}</ref>
In September 2021, an Ontario judge issued an injunction on mining in Wiisinin Zaahgi'igan (an area sacred to the ] peoples).<ref name="Turner2021">{{cite news |last=Turner |first=Logan |date=7 September 2021 |title=First Nation in northwestern Ontario granted temporary injunction to prevent mineral exploration |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/thunder-bay/ginoogaming-injunction-granted-1.6164824 |work=CBC News |location=Thunder Bay |access-date=13 November 2022}}</ref> The judge ruled that the Ontario government did not consult with the Ginoogaming as is their constitutional duty.<ref name="cbc.ca"/>


In 2018, Ford endorsed the economic policies of the ] and the presidency of ] in the United States, saying his support for Trump is "unwavering".<ref>{{cite news |title=Video: Doug Ford says his support of Donald Trump is unwavering - Video - CityNews Toronto |url=https://toronto.citynews.ca/video/2016/10/13/video-doug-ford-says-his-support-of-donald-trump-is-unwavering/ |publisher=City News |access-date=December 24, 2018 |archive-date=December 24, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224170524/https://toronto.citynews.ca/video/2016/10/13/video-doug-ford-says-his-support-of-donald-trump-is-unwavering/ |url-status=live }}</ref> After Trump announced tariffs on Canadian aluminum imports in August 2020, Ford expressed his disapproval, calling Trump's policy "totally unacceptable".<ref>{{cite news |title='Totally unacceptable:' Doug Ford slams Trump over aluminum tariffs |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/7256967/ford-slams-trump-tariffs/ |publisher=Global News |date=August 7, 2020 |access-date=August 28, 2020 |archive-date=August 15, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200815193846/https://globalnews.ca/news/7256967/ford-slams-trump-tariffs/ |url-status=live }}</ref> After the ], Ford congratulated ] and said it was "time to bet big" on Ontario–US relations.<ref name="GN-06.11.2024">{{cite web|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/10855950/doug-ford-ontario-congratulates-donald-trump/ |title=Doug Ford says 'time to bet big' on Ontario-U.S. relationship after Trump win |publisher=Global News |last1=Callan |first1=Issac |last2=Rodrigues |first2=Gabby |date=6 November 2024 |accessdate=7 November 2024 |archive-date=7 November 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241107195120/https://globalnews.ca/news/10855950/doug-ford-ontario-congratulates-donald-trump/ |url-status=live}}</ref> However, after Trump announced 25% tariffs on Canada, he staunchly opposed them.<ref>{{Cite news |date=26 Nov 2024 |title=Ford says Trump's tariff threat 'like a family member stabbing you in the heart' |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ford-trump-tariffs-canada-reaction-1.7393414 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241127161329/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ford-trump-tariffs-canada-reaction-1.7393414 |archive-date=27 Nov 2024 |work=CBC News}}</ref>
==Political endorsements==
], former leader of the Conservative Party of Canada]]
Ford actively supported the two Toronto mayoral campaigns of his brother ].<ref>{{cite news |title=Doug Ford once branded himself Toronto's 'co-mayor.' What did he and brother Rob accomplish at City Hall? {{!}} National Post |url=https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/doug-ford-once-branded-himself-torontos-co-mayor-what-did-he-and-brother-rob-accomplish-at-city-hall |publisher=National Post |date=25 May 2018 |language=en-CA |access-date=December 24, 2018 }}</ref> In federal politics, Ford supports the ] and several provincial conservative parties, including the Alberta ].<ref>{{cite news |title=Doug Ford, Andrew Scheer join forces against carbon tax {{!}} CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-andrew-scheer-1.4882637 |work=CBC |date=October 30, 2018 |language=en |access-date=December 24, 2018 |archive-date=December 22, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181222204400/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-andrew-scheer-1.4882637 |url-status=live }}</ref>


Ford called ] in Ontario during the ] "hate rallies".<ref>{{cite news |title=Ford calls pro-Palestinian demonstrations 'hate rallies' to intimidate Jewish communities |url=https://torontosun.com/news/provincial/ford-calls-pro-palestinian-demonstrations-hate-rallies-to-intimidate-jewish-communities |newspaper=Toronto Sun |date=November 8, 2023}}</ref>
Ford endorsed the economic policies of the ] and the presidency of ] in the United States, saying his support for Trump is "unwavering".<ref>{{cite news |title=Video: Doug Ford says his support of Donald Trump is unwavering - Video - CityNews Toronto |url=https://toronto.citynews.ca/video/2016/10/13/video-doug-ford-says-his-support-of-donald-trump-is-unwavering/ |publisher=City News |access-date=December 24, 2018 |archive-date=December 24, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224170524/https://toronto.citynews.ca/video/2016/10/13/video-doug-ford-says-his-support-of-donald-trump-is-unwavering/ |url-status=live }}</ref> After Trump announced tariffs on Canadian aluminum imports in August 2020, Ford expressed his disapproval, calling Trump's policy "totally unacceptable".<ref>{{cite news |title='Totally unacceptable:' Doug Ford slams Trump over aluminum tariffs |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/7256967/ford-slams-trump-tariffs/ |publisher=Global News |date=August 7, 2020 |access-date=August 28, 2020 |archive-date=August 15, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200815193846/https://globalnews.ca/news/7256967/ford-slams-trump-tariffs/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


==Personal life== ==Personal life==
=== Family === === Family ===
{{Main|Ford family (Canada)}}
Ford and his wife Karla ({{nee}} Middlebrook) have four daughters: ],<ref>{{cite news |newspaper=Toronto Sun |url=http://www.torontosun.com/2011/04/27/mayors-niece-trying-out-for-lingerie-football |title=Mayor's niece trying out for lingerie football |last=Davidson |first=Terry |date=April 27, 2011 |access-date=August 30, 2012 |archive-date=December 20, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131220012429/http://www.torontosun.com/2011/04/27/mayors-niece-trying-out-for-lingerie-football |url-status=live }}</ref> Kayla, Kara, and Kyla.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/toronto2014election/2014/10/24/mayoral_candidate_doug_fords_cozy_domestic_side.html |title=Mayoral candidate Doug Ford's cozy domestic side |work=Toronto Star |date=October 24, 2014 |first=Linda |last=Diebel |access-date=October 28, 2014 |archive-date=October 28, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141028041321/http://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/toronto2014election/2014/10/24/mayoral_candidate_doug_fords_cozy_domestic_side.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
Ford and his wife Karla ({{nee}} Middlebrook) have four daughters: ],<ref>{{cite news |newspaper=Toronto Sun |url=https://torontosun.com/2011/04/27/mayors-niece-trying-out-for-lingerie-football |title=Mayor's niece trying out for lingerie football |last=Davidson |first=Terry |date=April 27, 2011 |access-date=August 30, 2012 |archive-date=December 20, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131220012429/http://www.torontosun.com/2011/04/27/mayors-niece-trying-out-for-lingerie-football |url-status=live }}</ref> Kayla, Kara, and Kyla.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/toronto2014election/2014/10/24/mayoral_candidate_doug_fords_cozy_domestic_side.html |title=Mayoral candidate Doug Ford's cozy domestic side |work=Toronto Star |date=October 24, 2014 |first=Linda |last=Diebel |access-date=October 28, 2014 |archive-date=October 28, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141028041321/http://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/toronto2014election/2014/10/24/mayoral_candidate_doug_fords_cozy_domestic_side.html |url-status=live }}</ref>


In 2018, Rob's widow sued Doug and Randy for mismanagement of Rob's estate, saying their actions deprived her and her children of due compensation while overseeing business losses at Deco Labels totalling half of the company's market value. In response, Doug alleged that the claims and the lawsuit's timing in the same week as the ] amounted to ].<ref>{{cite web |title=Rob Ford's widow sues Doug Ford, alleging he has deprived her and her children of millions |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2018/06/04/rob-fords-widow-sues-doug-ford-alleging-he-has-deprived-them-of-millions.html |first=Kevin |last=Donovan |newspaper=Toronto Star |date=June 4, 2018 |access-date=June 4, 2018 |archive-date=June 4, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180604230141/https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2018/06/04/rob-fords-widow-sues-doug-ford-alleging-he-has-deprived-them-of-millions.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Doug Ford embroiled in family feud over brother's estate |url=http://torontosun.com/news/provincial/doug-ford-embroiled-in-family-legal-battle-over-brothers-estate |first=James |last=Wallace |newspaper=Toronto Sun |date=June 4, 2018 |access-date=June 4, 2018 |archive-date=June 4, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180604212608/http://torontosun.com/news/provincial/doug-ford-embroiled-in-family-legal-battle-over-brothers-estate |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2018, Ford's sister-in-law, through his late brother, Rob, sued Doug and Randy for mismanagement of Rob's estate, saying their actions deprived her and her children of due compensation while overseeing business losses at Deco Labels totalling half of the company's market value. In response, Doug alleged that the claims and the lawsuit's timing in the same week as the ] amounted to ].<ref>{{cite web |title=Rob Ford's widow sues Doug Ford, alleging he has deprived her and her children of millions |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2018/06/04/rob-fords-widow-sues-doug-ford-alleging-he-has-deprived-them-of-millions.html |first=Kevin |last=Donovan |newspaper=Toronto Star |date=June 4, 2018 |access-date=June 4, 2018 |archive-date=June 4, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180604230141/https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2018/06/04/rob-fords-widow-sues-doug-ford-alleging-he-has-deprived-them-of-millions.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Doug Ford embroiled in family feud over brother's estate |url=https://torontosun.com/news/provincial/doug-ford-embroiled-in-family-legal-battle-over-brothers-estate |first=James |last=Wallace |newspaper=Toronto Sun |date=June 4, 2018 |access-date=June 4, 2018 |archive-date=June 4, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180604212608/http://torontosun.com/news/provincial/doug-ford-embroiled-in-family-legal-battle-over-brothers-estate |url-status=live }}</ref>


Ford's mother Diane died from cancer in January 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/6380436/doug-ford-remembers-diane-ford/|title=Premier Doug Ford pays tribute to mother Diane Ford after she dies from cancer|website=Global News|language=en|access-date=2020-01-12|archive-date=January 12, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200112005726/https://globalnews.ca/news/6380436/doug-ford-remembers-diane-ford/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://nationalpost.com/pmn/news-pmn/canada-news-pmn/community-and-family-pay-tribute-at-funeral-for-diane-ford-doug-fords-mother|title=Community and family pay tribute at funeral for Diane Ford, Doug Ford's mother|newspaper=National Post |publisher=National Post Canada|date=2020-01-11|language=en-CA|access-date=2020-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2020/01/05/diane-ford-mother-of-premier-doug-ford-and-late-toronto-mayor-rob-ford-has-died.html|title=Diane Ford, mother of Premier Doug Ford and late Toronto mayor Rob Ford, has died at 85 {{!}} The Star|newspaper=The Toronto Star|date=January 5, 2020 |language=en|access-date=2020-01-12|archive-date=January 10, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200110093818/https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2020/01/05/diane-ford-mother-of-premier-doug-ford-and-late-toronto-mayor-rob-ford-has-died.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/toronto/article-matriarch-of-the-ford-political-dynasty/|title=Diane Ford, matriarch of the family's political dynasty|access-date=2020-01-12|archive-date=January 10, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200110182539/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/toronto/article-matriarch-of-the-ford-political-dynasty/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/diane-ford-dies-at-85-after-battle-with-cancer-ontario-premier-s-office-confirms-1.5415779|title=Diane Ford dies at 85 after battle with cancer, Ontario premier's office confirms|date=5 January 2020|website=CBC News|access-date=12 January 2020|archive-date=January 9, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200109083915/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/diane-ford-dies-at-85-after-battle-with-cancer-ontario-premier-s-office-confirms-1.5415779|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford's mother Diane died from cancer in January 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/6380436/doug-ford-remembers-diane-ford/|title=Premier Doug Ford pays tribute to mother Diane Ford after she dies from cancer|website=Global News|language=en|access-date=January 12, 2020|archive-date=January 12, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200112005726/https://globalnews.ca/news/6380436/doug-ford-remembers-diane-ford/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://nationalpost.com/pmn/news-pmn/canada-news-pmn/community-and-family-pay-tribute-at-funeral-for-diane-ford-doug-fords-mother|title=Community and family pay tribute at funeral for Diane Ford, Doug Ford's mother|newspaper=National Post |publisher=National Post Canada|date=January 11, 2020|language=en-CA|access-date=January 12, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2020/01/05/diane-ford-mother-of-premier-doug-ford-and-late-toronto-mayor-rob-ford-has-died.html|title=Diane Ford, mother of Premier Doug Ford and late Toronto mayor Rob Ford, has died at 85 {{!}} The Star|newspaper=The Toronto Star|date=January 5, 2020 |language=en|access-date=January 12, 2020|archive-date=January 10, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200110093818/https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2020/01/05/diane-ford-mother-of-premier-doug-ford-and-late-toronto-mayor-rob-ford-has-died.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/toronto/article-matriarch-of-the-ford-political-dynasty/|title=Diane Ford, matriarch of the family's political dynasty|access-date=January 12, 2020|archive-date=January 10, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200110182539/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/toronto/article-matriarch-of-the-ford-political-dynasty/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/diane-ford-dies-at-85-after-battle-with-cancer-ontario-premier-s-office-confirms-1.5415779|title=Diane Ford dies at 85 after battle with cancer, Ontario premier's office confirms|date=January 5, 2020|website=CBC News|access-date=January 12, 2020|archive-date=January 9, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200109083915/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/diane-ford-dies-at-85-after-battle-with-cancer-ontario-premier-s-office-confirms-1.5415779|url-status=live}}</ref>


Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ford's daughter Krista has controversially engaged in the spread of ] and ]. In December 2021, Krista and her husband participated in ''The Christian Fight for Freedom'', a panel discussion which included discussions that were ] and ] in nature. The event was advertised as having special guests "Dave and Krista Haynes, family of the premier Doug Ford".<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-the-anti-vaccine-rants-from-doug-fords-daughter-are-now-a-matter-of/|title=Opinion: The anti-vaccine rants from Doug Ford's daughter are now a matter of public interest|first=Robyn|last=Urback|newspaper=The Globe and Mail |date=December 8, 2021|via=www.theglobeandmail.com|access-date=December 9, 2021|archive-date=December 9, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211209063424/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-the-anti-vaccine-rants-from-doug-fords-daughter-are-now-a-matter-of/|url-status=live}}</ref> Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ford's daughter Krista has controversially engaged in the spread of ] and ]. In December 2021, Krista and her husband participated in ''The Christian Fight for Freedom'', a panel discussion which included discussions that were ] and ] in nature. The event was advertised as having special guests "Dave and Krista Haynes, family of the premier Doug Ford".<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-the-anti-vaccine-rants-from-doug-fords-daughter-are-now-a-matter-of/|title=Opinion: The anti-vaccine rants from Doug Ford's daughter are now a matter of public interest|first=Robyn|last=Urback|newspaper=The Globe and Mail |date=December 8, 2021|via=www.theglobeandmail.com|access-date=December 9, 2021|archive-date=December 9, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211209063424/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-the-anti-vaccine-rants-from-doug-fords-daughter-are-now-a-matter-of/|url-status=live}}</ref>


=== Health === === Health ===
Ford became an "ethical ]" after working in a ] plant as a teenager,<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/article/991796--city-hall-diary-council-s-newcomers-may-surprise-you |newspaper=Toronto Star |date=May 15, 2011 |access-date=May 16, 2011 |first=Josh |last=Matlow |title=City Hall Diary: Council's newcomers may surprise you |author-link=Josh Matlow |archive-date=October 24, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024060300/http://www.thestar.com/news/article/991796--city-hall-diary-council-s-newcomers-may-surprise-you |url-status=live }}</ref> and while this is no longer the case, he still does not eat ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://torontolife.com/city/toronto-politics/globe-doug-ford/ |title=Five things we learned about Doug Ford from Saturday's Globe and Mail |publisher=Toronto Life |date=June 13, 2011 |access-date=November 20, 2015 |archive-date=November 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151120194603/http://torontolife.com/city/toronto-politics/globe-doug-ford/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford, who is obese,<ref name=":1">{{Cite news|url=https://nationalpost.com/posted-toronto/at-330-and-275-pounds-respectively-rob-and-doug-ford-kick-off-their-weight-loss-campaign|title=Toronto's Rob and Doug Ford's weight loss campaign: The brothers kick off their public diet|last=Alcoba|first=Natalie|date=January 16, 2012|website=]|language=en-CA|access-date=2019-05-18|quote="Their goal: shed 50 pounds each in six months by cutting out late night eating and exercising regularly. That would bring the Mayor’s current 5’10” and 330 pound frame to 280 pounds, and ''whittle 5’11” Doug Ford from 275 to 225 pounds.''" (This would make Doug Ford's ] 38.4.)}}</ref> has struggled with his weight at least since 2012, when he publicly attempted a weight loss challenge.<ref name=":1" /> Ford is occasionally ] in the media, having been previously called "unfashionably overweight".<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-in-doug-ford-the-barbarian-has-stormed-the-gates/|title=The barbarian has stormed Ontario's gates|last=Wente|first=Margaret|date=June 8, 2018|work=]|access-date=2019-05-18|quote=He is unfashionably overweight, as was his late brother, Rob, the former mayor of Toronto.|archive-date=July 25, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180725022844/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-in-doug-ford-the-barbarian-has-stormed-the-gates/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://thetyee.ca/Opinion/2018/03/12/Please-Advise-Doug-Ford/|title=Please Advise! Doug Ford? Doug Freaking Ford?|last=Burgess|first=Steve|date=March 12, 2018|website=The Tyee|language=en|access-date=2019-05-18|archive-date=May 18, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190518081728/https://thetyee.ca/Opinion/2018/03/12/Please-Advise-Doug-Ford/|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford became an "ethical ]" after working in a ] plant as a teenager,<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/article/991796--city-hall-diary-council-s-newcomers-may-surprise-you |newspaper=Toronto Star |date=May 15, 2011 |access-date=May 16, 2011 |first=Josh |last=Matlow |title=City Hall Diary: Council's newcomers may surprise you |author-link=Josh Matlow |archive-date=October 24, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024060300/http://www.thestar.com/news/article/991796--city-hall-diary-council-s-newcomers-may-surprise-you |url-status=live }}</ref> and while this is no longer the case, he was still not eating ] as of 2011.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://torontolife.com/city/globe-doug-ford/ |title=Five things we learned about Doug Ford from Saturday's Globe and Mail |publisher=Toronto Life |date=June 13, 2011 |access-date=November 20, 2015 |archive-date=November 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151120194603/http://torontolife.com/city/toronto-politics/globe-doug-ford/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Ford, who is obese,<ref name=":1">{{Cite news|url=https://nationalpost.com/posted-toronto/at-330-and-275-pounds-respectively-rob-and-doug-ford-kick-off-their-weight-loss-campaign|title=Toronto's Rob and Doug Ford's weight loss campaign: The brothers kick off their public diet|last=Alcoba|first=Natalie|date=January 16, 2012|website=]|language=en-CA|access-date=May 18, 2019|quote="Their goal: shed 50 pounds each in six months by cutting out late night eating and exercising regularly. That would bring the Mayor's current 5’10” and 330 pound frame to 280 pounds, and ''whittle 5’11” Doug Ford from 275 to 225 pounds.''" (This would make Doug Ford's ] 38.4.)}}</ref> has struggled with his weight at least since 2012, when he publicly attempted a weight loss challenge.<ref name=":1" /> Ford is occasionally ] in the media, having been previously called "unfashionably overweight".<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-in-doug-ford-the-barbarian-has-stormed-the-gates/|title=The barbarian has stormed Ontario's gates|last=Wente|first=Margaret|date=June 8, 2018|work=]|access-date=May 18, 2019|quote=He is unfashionably overweight, as was his late brother, Rob, the former mayor of Toronto.|archive-date=July 25, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180725022844/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-in-doug-ford-the-barbarian-has-stormed-the-gates/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://thetyee.ca/Opinion/2018/03/12/Please-Advise-Doug-Ford/|title=Please Advise! Doug Ford? Doug Freaking Ford?|last=Burgess|first=Steve|date=March 12, 2018|website=The Tyee|language=en|access-date=May 18, 2019|archive-date=May 18, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190518081728/https://thetyee.ca/Opinion/2018/03/12/Please-Advise-Doug-Ford/|url-status=live}}</ref> Ford is a ].<ref>{{cite news|last=Freeman|first=Alan|title=Marijuana vs. beer: The new divide in Canadian politics|newspaper=]|date=3 May 2019|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/the_americas/marijuana-vs-beer-the-new-divide-in-canadian-politics/2019/05/02/740e4360-6ac0-11e9-bbe7-1c798fb80536_story.html|access-date=26 July 2024}}</ref>

On January 8, 2025, Ford was unharmed after an OPP vehicle he was travelling in was involved in a collision on Highway 401. The driver of the other involved vehicle is believed to have sustained non-life-threatening injuries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-01-08 |title=Ontario Premier Doug Ford uninjured in Highway 401 collision, says his office |url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-premier-doug-ford-uninjured-in-highway-401-collision-says-his-office-1.7168982 |access-date=2025-01-08 |website=Toronto |language=en}}</ref>


=== Philanthropy === === Philanthropy ===
In 2014, Doug and his mother donated $90,000 to ], where Rob Ford was receiving care.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/rob-ford-s-family-donates-90k-to-hospital-treating-his-cancer-1.2876070|website=CBC News|title=Rob Ford's family donates $90K to hospital treating his cancer|author=CBC News staff|date=December 17, 2014|access-date=May 10, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703055816/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/rob-ford-s-family-donates-90k-to-hospital-treating-his-cancer-1.2876070|archive-date=July 3, 2015}}</ref> Upon Rob's death, Doug and Randy took on stewardship of Rob's share of Deco Labels and Tags.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-calls-allegations-in-sister-in-law-s-lawsuit-false-and-without-merit-1.4692165|date=June 5, 2018|title=Doug Ford calls allegations in sister-in-law's lawsuit 'false and without merit'|first=Andrea|last=Janus|access-date=June 6, 2018|work=CBC News|archive-date=June 5, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180605233707/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/doug-ford-calls-allegations-in-sister-in-law-s-lawsuit-false-and-without-merit-1.4692165|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2014, Ford and his mother donated $90,000 to ], where Rob Ford was receiving care.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/rob-ford-s-family-donates-90k-to-hospital-treating-his-cancer-1.2876070|website=CBC News|title=Rob Ford's family donates $90K to hospital treating his cancer|author=CBC News staff|date=December 17, 2014|access-date=May 10, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703055816/http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/rob-ford-s-family-donates-90k-to-hospital-treating-his-cancer-1.2876070|archive-date=July 3, 2015}}</ref>


== Electoral record == == Electoral record ==
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|- |-
! scope="col" style="background:#ddf; width:150px;" |Candidate ! scope="col" style="background:#ddf; width:150px;" |Candidate
! scope="col" style="background:#ddf;" | Votes<ref>{{cite web|author=Toronto City Clerk's Office|date=October 30, 2014|title=Declaration of Results - 2014 Municipal General Election - Monday, October 27, 2014|url=http://www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/9059-election-2014-clerksofficialdeclarationofresults.pdf|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160705235228/http://www1.toronto.ca/City%20Of%20Toronto/City%20Clerks/Elections/Library/Files/Results%20PDFs/2014%20Election/2014clerksofficialdeclarationofresults.pdf|archive-date=July 5, 2016|access-date=April 21, 2018|publisher=City of Toronto}}</ref> ! scope="col" style="background:#ddf;" | Votes<ref>{{cite web|author=Toronto City Clerk's Office|date=October 30, 2014|title=Declaration of Results - 2014 Municipal General Election - Monday, October 27, 2014|url=https://www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/9059-election-2014-clerksofficialdeclarationofresults.pdf|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160705235228/http://www1.toronto.ca/City%20Of%20Toronto/City%20Clerks/Elections/Library/Files/Results%20PDFs/2014%20Election/2014clerksofficialdeclarationofresults.pdf|archive-date=July 5, 2016|access-date=April 21, 2018|publisher=City of Toronto}}</ref>
! scope="col" style="background:#ddf;" | % ! scope="col" style="background:#ddf;" | %
|- |-
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{|class="wikitable plainrowheaders" {|class="wikitable plainrowheaders"
|- |-
|+ ''']''' |+ ]
|- |-
! Candidate ! Candidate
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{{CANelec/gain|ON|PC|Liberal|+15.30}} {{CANelec/gain|ON|PC|Liberal|+15.30}}
<!--{{CANelec/total|Eligible voters|}}--> <!--{{CANelec/total|Eligible voters|}}-->
{{CANelec/source|Source: ]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.elections.on.ca/content/dam/NGW/sitecontent/2018/results/officialresults-yellowbook/votescastbycandidate/pdf/Valid%20Votes%20Cast%20for%20Each%20Candidate%20-%202018%20Provincial%20General%20Election.pdf|title=Summary of Valid Votes Cast for each Candidate|publisher=Elections Ontario|access-date=16 January 2019|archive-date=December 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181228175029/https://www.elections.on.ca/content/dam/NGW/sitecontent/2018/results/officialresults-yellowbook/votescastbycandidate/pdf/Valid%20Votes%20Cast%20for%20Each%20Candidate%20-%202018%20Provincial%20General%20Election.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>}} {{CANelec/source|Source: ]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.elections.on.ca/content/dam/NGW/sitecontent/2018/results/officialresults-yellowbook/votescastbycandidate/pdf/Valid%20Votes%20Cast%20for%20Each%20Candidate%20-%202018%20Provincial%20General%20Election.pdf|title=Summary of Valid Votes Cast for each Candidate|publisher=Elections Ontario|access-date=January 16, 2019|archive-date=December 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181228175029/https://www.elections.on.ca/content/dam/NGW/sitecontent/2018/results/officialresults-yellowbook/votescastbycandidate/pdf/Valid%20Votes%20Cast%20for%20Each%20Candidate%20-%202018%20Provincial%20General%20Election.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>}}
{{end}} {{end}}

{{2022 Ontario general election/Etobicoke North}}


==References== ==References==
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| work = ] | work = ]
| author = Billy Eff | author = Billy Eff
| date = 2019-01-23 | date = January 23, 2019
| access-date = 2019-01-24 | access-date = January 24, 2019
| quote = The Ontario premier has been clear on one thing: all illegal vendors and unauthorized stores will be severely punished, with fines ranging from $ 100,000 to $ 500,000. | quote = The Ontario premier has been clear on one thing: all illegal vendors and unauthorized stores will be severely punished, with fines ranging from $ 100,000 to $ 500,000.
| archive-date = January 25, 2019 | archive-date = January 25, 2019
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| title = Evening Brief: Taking heat over Huawei | title = Evening Brief: Taking heat over Huawei
| work = iPolitics.ca | work = iPolitics.ca
| date = 2019-01-23 | date = January 23, 2019
| access-date = 2019-01-24 | access-date = January 24, 2019
| quote = Still with failing to grasp, we turn to Kyla Ford, daughter of Premier Doug, who has been busy promoting CBD oil on her Instagram. The problem? It’s illegal. | quote = Still with failing to grasp, we turn to Kyla Ford, daughter of Premier Doug, who has been busy promoting CBD oil on her Instagram. The problem? It's illegal.
| archive-date = January 25, 2019 | archive-date = January 25, 2019
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190125020648/https://ipolitics.ca/2019/01/23/evening-brief-taking-heat-over-huawei/ | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190125020648/https://ipolitics.ca/2019/01/23/evening-brief-taking-heat-over-huawei/
| url-status = live | url-status = live
}}</ref> }}</ref>
{{cite news
| url = https://player.fm/series/the-morning-show-2343758/the-morning-show-january-23rd-2019
| access-date = 2019-01-24
}}
</ref>


<ref name=leaderpost2019-01-23>{{cite news <ref name=leaderpost2019-01-23>{{cite news
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| title = Doug Ford's daughter Kyla was promoting CBD on Instagram: here's why that illegal | title = Doug Ford's daughter Kyla was promoting CBD on Instagram: here's why that illegal
| work = ] | work = ]
| date = 2019-01-23 | date = January 23, 2019
| access-date = 2019-01-24 | access-date = January 24, 2019
| quote = According to the Canadian government, hemp-based CBD products are not legal in Canada unless they come from a licensed producer—despite the proliferation of social media users hawking CBD products from companies like Bodhi Naturals and Hempworx. | quote = According to the Canadian government, hemp-based CBD products are not legal in Canada unless they come from a licensed producer—despite the proliferation of social media users hawking CBD products from companies like Bodhi Naturals and Hempworx.
| archive-date = January 25, 2019 | archive-date = January 25, 2019
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|work = ] |work = ]
|author = Harrison Jordan |author = Harrison Jordan
|date = 2019-01-23 |date = January 23, 2019
|access-date = 2019-01-24 |access-date = January 24, 2019
|quote = The brand, Bodhi Naturals, does not appear on Health Canada’s list of licensed commercial producers of cannabis, and it appears that the company sells products such as oils and capsules on its website to Canadians without a prescription. |quote = The brand, Bodhi Naturals, does not appear on Health Canada's list of licensed commercial producers of cannabis, and it appears that the company sells products such as oils and capsules on its website to Canadians without a prescription.
|archive-date = January 25, 2019 |archive-date = January 25, 2019
|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190125020458/https://www.leafly.ca/news/politics/doug-fords-daughter-promotes-illicit-cbd-oil |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190125020458/https://www.leafly.ca/news/politics/doug-fords-daughter-promotes-illicit-cbd-oil
|url-status = live |url-status = live
}}</ref> }}</ref>
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|work = ] |work = ]
|author = Casey Aonso |author = Casey Aonso
|date = 2019-01-23 |date = January 23, 2019
|access-date = 2019-01-24 |access-date = January 24, 2019
|quote = Kyla Ford had to delete a sponsored post on her Instagram feed after Ontarians realized she was promoting a black market cannabis product. |quote = Kyla Ford had to delete a sponsored post on her Instagram feed after Ontarians realized she was promoting a black market cannabis product.
|archive-date = January 25, 2019 |archive-date = January 25, 2019
|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190125020547/https://www.narcity.com/gossip/9-things-to-know-about-kyla-ford-doug-fords-ig-famous-daughter |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190125020547/https://www.narcity.com/gossip/9-things-to-know-about-kyla-ford-doug-fords-ig-famous-daughter
|url-status = live |url-status = live
}}</ref> }}</ref>
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|author = Emma Paling |author = Emma Paling
|work = ] |work = ]
|date = 2019-01-22 |date = January 22, 2019
|access-date = 2019-01-24 |access-date = January 24, 2019
|quote = <!-- Premier Ford has been adamant that illegal sellers of cannabis products must be shut down by police. |quote = <!-- Premier Ford has been adamant that illegal sellers of cannabis products must be shut down by police.
He faced questions in November after The Toronto Star reported that his chief of staff asked aides to direct police to raid illegal cannabis dispensaries on legalization day. He faced questions in November after The Toronto Star reported that his chief of staff asked aides to direct police to raid illegal cannabis dispensaries on legalization day.
-->Dean French allegedly said that he wanted to see {{'}}people in handcuffs ... on CP24 by lunch.{{'}} -->Dean French allegedly said that he wanted to see {{'}}people in handcuffs ... on CP24 by lunch.{{'}}
|archive-date = January 25, 2019 |archive-date = January 25, 2019
|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190125072422/https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2019/01/22/kyla-ford-instagram-black-market-cannabis-oils_a_23649983/ |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190125072422/https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2019/01/22/kyla-ford-instagram-black-market-cannabis-oils_a_23649983/
|url-status = live |url-status = live
}}</ref> }}</ref>
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==External links== ==External links==
{{Commons category|Doug Ford}} {{Commons category|Doug Ford}}
{{Wikiquote}}
*
*
*
* – Web archive created by the University of Toronto Libraries * – Web archive created by the University of Toronto Libraries


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{{DEFAULTSORT:Ford, Doug}} {{DEFAULTSORT:Ford, Doug}}
]
] ]
] ]
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] ]
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Latest revision as of 00:59, 11 January 2025

Premier of Ontario since 2018 For other people named Doug Ford, see Doug Ford (disambiguation). Not to be confused with Rob Ford.

The HonourableDoug FordMPP
Headshot of Ford in 2024Ford in 2024
26th Premier of Ontario
Incumbent
Assumed office
June 29, 2018
Monarchs
Lieutenant Governor
Deputy
Preceded byKathleen Wynne
Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs
Incumbent
Assumed office
June 29, 2018
PremierHimself
Preceded byKathleen Wynne
Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
Incumbent
Assumed office
March 10, 2018
Preceded byVic Fedeli (interim)
Member of the Ontario Provincial Parliament
for Etobicoke North
Incumbent
Assumed office
June 7, 2018
Preceded byShafiq Qaadri
Toronto City Councillor
for Ward 2 Etobicoke North
In office
December 1, 2010 – November 30, 2014
Preceded byRob Ford
Succeeded byRob Ford
Personal details
BornDouglas Robert Ford Jr.
(1964-11-20) November 20, 1964 (age 60)
Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada
Political partyProgressive Conservative
SpouseKarla Middlebrook
Children4 (including Krista)
Parents
Relatives
Residence(s)Princess Gardens, Etobicoke, Toronto
Alma materHumber College (no degree)
Occupation
  • Businessman
  • politician
Websitefordmpp.ca
This article is part of
a series aboutDoug Ford

Douglas Robert Ford Jr. MPP (born November 20, 1964) is a Canadian politician and businessman who has served as the 26th and current premier of Ontario since June 2018 and leader of the Progressive Conservative Party since March 2018. He represents the Toronto riding of Etobicoke North in the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.

With his brother Randy, Ford co-owns Deco Labels and Tags, a printing business operating in Canada and the United States that was founded by their father, Doug Ford Sr., who served as a Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) from 1995 to 1999. Ford was a Toronto city councillor for Ward 2 Etobicoke North from 2010 to 2014 at the same time that his brother, Rob Ford, was mayor of Toronto. Ford ran for the 2014 Toronto mayoral election, where he placed second behind John Tory.

In 2018, Ford entered provincial politics and won the Progressive Conservative leadership election. He led the PCs to majority victories in the 2018 and 2022 general elections. As premier, Ford has made investments in public transportation, decreased the size of Toronto city council, led the province through the COVID-19 pandemic, passed Bill 60 to expand the use of private healthcare services, and has faced criticism for his government's handling of the greenbelt scandal.

Early life, family, and education

Born in Etobicoke, Ontario, Ford was the second of four children of Doug Bruce Ford Sr. and Ruth Diane Ford (née Campbell). His paternal grandparents were English immigrants. He graduated grade twelve from Scarlett Heights Collegiate Institute. He then attended Humber College for two months before dropping out with no diploma.

Early business career

In the 1990s, Ford became involved in the running of Deco Labels and Tags, a business co-founded by his father in 1962. The company makes pressure-sensitive labels for plastic-wrapped grocery products. Doug Jr. became president of the company in 2002, and was responsible for the company's expansion into Chicago. Nearing his death, his father divided up the company, leaving 40 percent to Doug Jr., 40 percent to Randy and 20 percent to Rob. In 2008, Doug Jr. launched the purchase of Wise Tag and Label in New Jersey and fired Wise Tag's manager. Former Deco employees suggest that the Chicago branch was well-managed under Doug Jr., and that he was well-liked but that the company declined under Randy's leadership after Doug Jr. entered politics in 2010. As of 2011, Ford and his mother were directors of the company, managed by his brother Randy.

Early involvement in politics

Ford's first involvement in politics came when Doug Holyday approached Deco to print stickers for signs for his 1994 mayoral campaign in Etobicoke. Ford took it upon himself to canvass for Holyday. He then assisted in his father's campaigns as a PC MPP candidate in 1995 and 1999. He also ran his brother Rob's council campaigns in 2000, 2003, and 2006, and Rob's winning mayoral campaign in 2010.

Municipal politics

On October 25, 2010, Ford was elected as councillor to Toronto City Council in Ward 2. He succeeded his brother, Rob, who ran successfully for mayor of Toronto. Upon election, Doug Ford announced that he would donate his $100,000 annual salary to community organizations.

As a city councillor, Ford voted to privatize garbage pickup west of Yonge Street, declare the Toronto Transit Commission an essential service, reduce the office budget of city councillors and eliminate the vehicle registration tax.

Boards and agencies

While on city council, Ford served on the board of Build Toronto, an arm's-length city body responsible for developing and selling city land. He was also a director of the Canadian National Exhibition, and served on the Budget Committee, the Civic Appointments Committee and the Government Management Committee at Council.

Ford attending the City of Toronto's 2011 New Year's levee

Ford was a member of the board of Toronto Transit Infrastructure Limited, a corporation set up to finance a Sheppard Avenue subway extension, which Council later cancelled. In 2011, Ford promoted an alternative plan for the Port Lands district of Toronto, including a monorail, a boat-in hotel, the world's largest Ferris wheel and a mega-mall. The plan was ridiculed in the media and council voted it down—including by members of the mayoral executive committee.

Other events while councillor

Ford caused controversy after revealing that his brother Rob would be served a subpoena if Rob's friend and driver Alexander Lisi went to court over charges of extortion. Ford commented that the subpoena was in "payback" for Toronto Police Chief Bill Blair not getting a contract renewal with the Toronto Police Service, saying "This is why we need a change at the top", in regards to Blair's contract. Blair filed a defamation lawsuit, demanding a written apology in exchange for dropping the suit. Ford apologized and retracted the comments.

An investigative report by The Globe and Mail published in May 2013 alleged that Ford had sold hashish at James Gardens for several years in the 1980s, based on interviews with anonymous sources. Ford, who had never been charged with drug possession or trafficking, denied the allegations and accused the newspaper of unfairly targeting his brother, then-mayor Rob Ford. The newspaper defended its report and its use of anonymous sources at an Ontario Press Council hearing, which dismissed complaints against the newspaper and found that its coverage was "fair and ethical". Ford said at the time that he planned to sue the newspaper for libel. When asked in a 2018 interview why he had not sued, he replied that he had decided a lawsuit would be a "waste of time".

Ford opposed a house for developmentally disabled youth in his ward, saying the home had "ruined the community".

Aspirations for higher office and 2014 mayoral candidacy

In June 2013, Ford announced that he would not run for re-election as councillor in the next Toronto election, scheduled for 2014: "I won't be running next time, at least down here I won't be running, I'll be running away from this place in 16 months", expressing his frustration with municipal politics. It was speculated at the time that Ford may be a Progressive Conservative candidate for a future Ontario election, or interested in the leadership of the PCs. On February 20, 2014, after meeting with PC leader Tim Hudak, Ford announced that he would not be a candidate in the next provincial election, which was called for June 12, 2014, so that he could focus on his brother's re-election campaign. Ford explained, "The timing right now just doesn't work."

Ford attending a Good Friday procession in East York, April 2014

After his brother Rob entered drug rehab in May 2014, Ford commented that he would not rule out running for mayor. Rob returned from rehab and continued his campaign for mayor, but withdrew after he was diagnosed with an abdominal tumour and hospitalized. Doug Ford then entered the mayoral campaign in the last hour before the nomination deadline on September 12, 2014. Comments Ford made during the campaign received criticism for alleged bigotry, such as misogyny and antisemitism, and critics accused him of conflict of interest and of drug dealing in the past. Though voters viewed the brothers as having the same ideological stance and gave them similar levels of support, Rob's drug scandal received little attention with regard to Doug's campaign.

Ford's campaign got the attention of Last Week Tonight's John Oliver, who closed an episode begging Torontonians to vote for Doug Ford for the world's amusement. Doug Ford maintained the support that Rob had in the polls and made no significant ground against frontrunner John Tory, but maintained his lead over Olivia Chow. Ford lost the election to Tory, having 34 percent of the support compared to Tory's 40 percent. Ford's campaign was fined $11,950 for placing 478 illegal lawn signs during the campaign, including placing signs on the Don Valley Parkway, the Gardiner Expressway, and on civic buildings and parks.

Following his unsuccessful mayoral candidacy, there was speculation that Ford would become a candidate for the leadership of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario. Ford told reporters: "It's on the table, I would really consider it", and added: "Our campaign is ready to go. Our people are itching to get involved. We are miles ahead of the other candidates." On November 27, 2014, Ford announced that he would not be a candidate for the position and endorsed the candidacy of family friend Christine Elliott.

Ford Nation book

A book by Doug and Rob Ford titled Ford Nation: Two Brothers, One Vision – The True Story of the People's Mayor appeared in 2016.

Integrity commissioner ruling against Ford

In December 2016, the City of Toronto's integrity commissioner concluded that Ford broke the city's code of conduct when he was a councillor finding that Ford improperly used his influence in municipal matters pertaining to two companies that were clients of his family's company. Integrity Commissioner Valerie Jepson ruled that: "Councillor Ford took no steps to establish clear lines of separation between his responsibilities as a member of Council and his duties as a principal of Deco."

Since Ford was no longer a councillor by the time the ruling was issued, the commissioner did not recommend any sanctions for Ford.

Cancelled 2018 Toronto mayoral campaign

On September 9, 2017, Ford announced at his family's annual barbecue that he would run for mayor of Toronto in the 2018 election, saying "this one's for you, Robbie", referring to his younger brother Rob who had died the previous year. Ford said that his opponent, John Tory, was "all talk and broken promises". On February 1, 2018, Ford announced that he no longer planned to run for mayor that year because he intended to focus entirely on his campaign for Ontario PC leader.

Provincial politics

2018 Progressive Conservative leadership campaign

Ford for Leader
CandidateDoug Ford
AffiliationProgressive Conservative Party of Ontario
StatusWon
HeadquartersToronto
SloganStrong Party, Strong Ontario
Websitefordforleader.ca
Main article: 2018 Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario leadership election
Top map: Results of the first round by plurality of points. Bottom map: Results of the 3rd (final) round by plurality of points

Following the sudden resignation of Patrick Brown on January 25, 2018, the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario announced a new leader would need to be chosen before the 2018 Ontario general election in June. Ford was the first candidate to announce, on January 29, that he would seek the leadership of the party. On January 31, 2018, Ford announced he would seek the PC nomination in Etobicoke North and run for the seat in the 2018 election. He was one of the four official candidates running for the PC leadership along with Christine Elliott, Caroline Mulroney, and Tanya Granic Allen.

Ford promised to represent the interests of Northern Ontario in Queen's Park. He called his opponents "insiders" and "political elites", who did not represent the interests of the residents of Northern Ontario like he could. Ford pledged several northern-focused policy initiatives including moving forward with resource development in the Northern Ontario Ring of Fire and reinstating the Ontario Northland Railway's Northlander train service.

Ford called the Ontario health care system "broken" while relating the hospital experience of his brother Rob. He explained that Rob fell while being guided to a chair, and as the hospital was understaffed Doug had to rush down eleven floors to find security guards to help. He stated that the province should support transportation to allow Northern Ontarians to travel quickly and easily to the south to receive medical care and should increase provincial support for Ontario's small and medium-sized hospitals.

Polling results ahead of the leadership ballot were mixed. A February Ipsos/Global News poll found that Ford had the most support of all the PC leadership candidates in Toronto and would beat the Liberals in the city by nine points, but a Mainstreet poll showed him doing only marginally better than the other PC candidates except Patrick Brown, and a Forum Research poll suggested he would have less support than the other candidates.

Ford at the Canadian Corps Association in Oshawa, March 2018

On March 10, Ford won the PC leadership on the third ballot. The results were too close to call and there was a dispute over whether some votes were allocated to the correct electoral districts, so the announcement was not made at the originally scheduled convention. A news conference was held later that night after a recount was completed. Elliott conceded the next day and endorsed Ford as leader.

On March 27, 2018, Ford was named the party's candidate in Etobicoke North.

2018 general election

Main article: 2018 Ontario general election

In March 2018, the Liberals tabled a pre-election budget in the provincial legislature which promised billions of dollars in new spending for free childcare and expanded coverage for dental care but replaced the government's previous balanced budget with a $6.7 billion deficit projected to last until 2024–2025. Ford called the budget a "spending spree". He said he would condense the Conservative platform adopted under former leader Patrick Brown, reducing "about ten percent of ", into a five-point plan focusing on health, education, creating jobs, getting rid of the province's cap and trade program for carbon emissions, and reducing electricity rates.

Ford was critical of the sex education components of the Ontario health curriculum which was updated in 2015, and stated that he believed it needed to be reviewed. He suggested that minors should be required to consult their parents before obtaining an abortion, and indicated he would allow the introduction of a private member's bill requiring parental consent. In terms of economic policy, Ford said he would revive manufacturing in Ontario by easing regulations, cutting taxes, and ensuring competitive electricity rates. Ford criticized the Liberal government for not proceeding quickly enough to develop the Northern Ontario Ring of Fire, saying that he'd get on a bulldozer himself if necessary.

Ford speaks to a crowd in Sudbury, May 2018

Ford announced at an April 3 rally in Hamilton, Ontario, that if elected his government would allow Hamilton City Council to reallocate the $1.3 billion allocated for the city's proposed rapid transit system to roads or other infrastructure. Hamilton mayor Fred Eisenberger responded saying that city council had already decided the issue and that cancelling the LRT would mean $100 million would "be thrown away".

Ford and the PC Party received the endorsement of former Toronto mayor Mel Lastman and former Mississauga mayor Hazel McCallion. In the media, Ford was compared to U.S. President Donald Trump. The Guardian described Ford as a "businessman turned anti-establishment politician", a "son of a wealthy entrepreneur" who "rails against elites" and "often shuns expertise", while noting a sharp difference with Trump by pointing out that during his 2014 Toronto mayoral campaign "Ford drummed up strong support among some of the city's most diverse neighbourhoods, suggesting his populist touch resonates with immigrants and racialized minorities who have traditionally self-identified as disenfranchised". Ford rejected the comparisons while praising some of Trump's policies.

Ford celebrarting his party's electoral victory in the 2018 Ontario general election, June 2018

Ford led the PC Party to a majority government in the general election held on June 7, 2018, taking 76 of 124 seats in the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, including his own riding of Etobicoke North. Ford had been PC leader for less than 100 days when his party won the election.

Premier of Ontario

Main article: Premiership of Doug Ford

Ford was sworn in as premier on June 29, 2018, incorporating a ceremony outdoors on the lawn of Queen's Park. Ford is the first newly elected MPP to take office as premier since Mitch Hepburn did so in 1934.

Provincial finances

Ford's government cancelled the basic income pilot project. He opposes the laying off of government workers. He supports the use of attrition to eliminate government jobs that he believes are not needed. Ford believes in hiring independent auditors to audit government spending. Jay Goldberg of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation labelled Ford's spending excessive and noted Ontario's large debt increases under his government.

Liquor pricing

Ford campaigned on "buck-a-beer" and reduced the minimum price of beer from $1.25 to $1. The program saw low adoption by breweries and resellers. As a result of lowering the price floor, a regulation that capped annual increases in pricing that was tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) was also eliminated and is projected to result in increased prices overall.

Low-Income Individuals and Families Tax credit (LIFT)

On November 15, 2018, Finance Minister Vic Fedeli tabled the 2018 Ontario Economic Outlook which included a tax cut representing as much as $850 a year for individuals and $1,700 for couples. LIFT would mean that a single person working full-time in minimum wage job, would pay no provincial personal income tax. Minimum wage workers would still pay federal income tax which represents 75 percent of the tax rate. LIFT is a variation on Ford's promise to cut taxes on those making less than $30,000 a year. The amount of the tax credit applies only to minimum wage earners with full-time jobs. An individual who works part-time at $20 an hour but only earns $20,000 a year, would not be eligible. Economist Sheila Block said that a $15 minimum wage would represent about $1,100 more a year for low income earners than Ford's tax credit. In September 2018, Ford's government froze the minimum wage at $14 per hour and cancelled a planned increase.

Cap and trade

On June 15, 2018, then premier-designate, Ford announced in a statement that one of the first actions of his newly formed cabinet would be to eliminate the province's cap and trade program under the 2016 Climate Change Mitigation and Low-Carbon Economy Act, a polluter pay bill that "generated funds for climate change mitigation and adaptation," put in place by the Liberal government. As premier, through the Cap and Trade Cancellation Act, 2018 which was tabled on July 25, 2018, Ford repealed cap and trade as part of his promise to lower gasoline prices by 10 cents per litre. A court later ruled that as Ontario's Environmental Bill of Rights required the government hold public consultations before removing the program, the government's unilateral decision broke the law. As federal law requires provinces to have in place their own pollution pricing system, as a result of Ontario withdrawing from the Western Climate Initiative, a carbon tax was automatically imposed on the province.

Carbon tax

Ford had warned that the imposition of the federal carbon tax would result in an increase in the price of gas in Ontario. According to fuel price analyst Patrick DeHaan, the average retail price of gas increased from 114.3 cents per litre before the carbon tax to "117.9 cents on April 1, the first day of the new tax" and 125.3 cents per litre in mid-July. There has been a 9.2 per cent drop in gasoline prices across Canada over the last year, according to the July 17, 2019 Statistics Canada report which resulted in inflation falling nationally in June 2019 to 2.0 per cent. DeHaan said that in July 2018 the average price of gas in Ontario had been 130.1 cents per litre. He added that the retail price of gas reflects the drop in the price of oil prices from US$72 per barrel to US$60 a barrel in 2019 and is not related to the carbon tax. As a result, rebates for electric vehicles funded through the program were cancelled, and a program known as the Green Ontario Fund, which was financed by the proceeds of cap-and-trade auctions and aimed to help homeowners reduce their carbon footprint and reduce hydro bills, was eliminated.

In July, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that provinces that do not adopt a carbon pricing mechanism by September 1, 2018, would be subject to a federal carbon tax of $20/tonne starting in January 2019. Ontario's "fiscal watchdog" and other analysts said that the province will have to refund an estimated $3 billion in carbon credits over four years purchased under the cap and trade program. By mid-November 2018, The Globe and Mail reported that the Ontario government had "lost $2.7-billion in revenue" which included the $1.5-billion loss of revenue from the elimination of the cap-and-trade program.

Carbon tax decals on gas pumps in Ontario, mandated by the Ford government during the 2019 federal election

Ford has worked with the premiers of Saskatchewan, Manitoba and New Brunswick to fight the federal government's carbon tax legislation, and has also supported campaigns to repeal the carbon tax led by federal Conservative Party leader Andrew Scheer and Alberta United Conservative Party leader Jason Kenney. Ford believes the federal Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act, which imposes a carbon tax on provinces that do not have their own pollution pricing regime is unconstitutional. He committed $30 million to challenge the federal legislation, $4 million of which was spent on anti-carbon pricing advertisements including printing anti-carbon pricing stickers and imposing fines for gas station owners failing to display the stickers. The province mandating the display of the stickers was later ruled to be itself unconstitutional, in violation of section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which guarantees business owners' freedom of expression.

On March 25, 2021, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that the constitution allows for the federal government to introduce pollution pricing on behalf of provinces who do not have their own regime.

Debt

While Doug Ford promised a balanced budget in 2018, the Ontario debt has increased by $86 billion since Ford took office as of December 2024. This is an increase much greater than his predecessor's, whose budget Ford criticized. At the same time, Ontario's high income taxes have been called 'uncompetitive' by critics, with some also highlighting unnecessary spending by the government.

Healthcare

Ford with Windsor mayor Drew Dilkens at the future site of the Windsor-Essex Acute Care Hospital, May 2022

In 2018, Ford expressed support for publicly funded healthcare and a belief that funding should be increased to create 30,000 additional long-term care beds. In 2020, Ford's government spent $3.5 billion less on health care than budgeted.

In 2018, Ford said he believes that the provincial government should fully subsidize dental costs for low-income seniors, something he enacted in 2019 as the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program. The federal government also later enacted the Canadian Dental Care Plan, which partially subsidized dental care for qualifying individuals with a household income under 90k. Applications were open to seniors, kids and teens, and adults with qualifying disabilities as of December 2024.

Ontario Health

Main article: Ontario Health (agency)

The Ford government introduced the Ontario Health agency in 2019, with the goal of centralizing services. The province expects to save $350 million a year by 2021–22.

The introduction of the agency has been criticized however, as similar approach was introduced in Alberta, which has the highest per capita healthcare spending in the country, with the NDP noting that "In British Columbia and in Alberta, health centralization wasted billions of dollars", and as wasting "time, money and energy on reshaping the health bureaucracy" rather than "specific solutions to well-identified problems."

Bill 60

Ford has been accused of attempting to privatize healthcare in the province of Ontario. In August 2022, Ford suggested additional private deliveries of healthcare in order to supplement existing public healthcare in response to a hospital staff shortage throughout Ontario.

In May 2023, Ford's government passed Bill 60, also known as the Your Health Act, to allow private clinics to perform more surgeries (including cataract surgeries, minimally invasive gynecological surgeries and eventually knee and hip replacements) and procedures (including MRI and CT scans) covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Health Minister Sylvia Jones argued the legislation was necessary to reduce the province's large surgical backlog (according to the province, more than 200,000 Ontarians have been waiting for surgeries). Ford's government said new clinics must apply for a licence to operate and include thorough staffing plans "to protect the stability of doctors, nurses and other health-care workers at public hospitals" as part of their applications. To ensure that quality and safety standards are met at every clinic, the government declared that it will name "expert organizations" to collaborate with Ontario Health and the Ministry of Health. If necessary, the ministry or the director of this third party may order an examination of a facility.

The Ontario government was also found to be paying for-profit clinics more for publicly funded surgeries than they do for hospitals. Ford and his health minister have said that this is a cost-efficient method of expanding healthcare, but the chief of surgery at an Ontario hospital called the overpayment 'egregious'.

Emergency Room Closures

In 2023, Ontario saw 1,199 ER closures, mostly impacting rural areas. This problem further increased in 2024, to nearly 15,000 hours of ER or urgent care closures. The main reasons cited were staff shortages, specifically of nurses, which combined accounted for 96% of closures. The Ford government pledged $44 million in July 2023 to combat the closures and $500 million in November 2024 for educating more nurses and specialized training for current ones.

Education

Immediately after taking office in 2018, Ford proposed to cut 3,475 Ontario teaching jobs over four years to save $292 million a year, Ford also cancelled the Green Ontario Fund residential rebate program which included a $100 million fund for public school repair, free prescriptions to youth 24 and under, and an initiative to add indigenous peoples content to school curriculum, and eliminated free tuition for low-income students (while reducing tuition fees by 10 per cent),

On July 11, 2018, Ford announced that Ontario's health curriculum including sexual education components, updated by the previous government in 2015, would be reverted to the 1998 curriculum before the next school year. He pledged to create a new sex-education curriculum after consulting with parents and teachers. Ford stated the sex-education curriculum needed to be changed because it was not age-appropriate and not based on enough consultation. However, his 2019 curriculum was largely similar to the 2015 version, save for allowing parents to opt-out.

Ford believes that financial literacy education should be expanded and included in school curricula, and believes Ontario's math curriculum should drop discovery learning and put a greater emphasis on arithmetic and memorization of the multiplication table.

Ford used back-to-work legislation to end the 2018 strike at York University prior to the start of the 2018–2019 school year. The strike had gone on for over four months, making it the longest post-secondary strike in Canadian history. Ford ordered all public universities and colleges in Ontario to develop free-speech policies that meet his government's expectations and stated that universities and colleges that do not comply will face funding reductions.

By June 2019, the Ford government had removed or decreased funding for "school programs like after-school jobs for youth in low-income neighbourhoods", "tutors in classrooms", "daily physical activity for elementary students", "financial assistance for college and university students", "free tuition for low-income students", and "three satellite university campuses". He also "increased class sizes" and "cancelled three summer curriculum-writing sessions—one mandated by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and two others.

2022 CUPE strike

Ford's government introduced Bill 28, known as the Keeping Students in Class Act, which was passed by the Legislative Assembly of Ontario on November 3, 2022, amid ongoing labour negotiations with the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). CUPE had given notice of job action October 30 after negotiations broke down with the Ministry of Education, and would have been in a legal strike position on November 4. Bill 28 imposes a contract on CUPE, and makes it illegal to strike, setting fines of $4000 for workers. The bill invokes the notwithstanding clause, shielding it from being struck down by the courts by allowing the bill to operate despite the right to collective bargaining granted by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The legislation was widely condemned, including by opposition parties, the Canadian Civil Liberties Association, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada David Lametti, the Ontario Bar Association, and other unions including those which had previously endorsed the PC Party.

Despite the government's bill, CUPE went on strike anyway, resulting in province-wide school closures and protests in support of education workers. The government challenged CUPE at the Ontario Labour Relations Board. On November 7, 2022, Ford announced that he would rescind Bill 28 and that he would resume negotiations with CUPE. Following the strike, Ford said he did not regret his use of the notwithstanding clause in imposing the contract and said that it helped both sides "come to their senses".

Municipal affairs

Prior to his election as premier, Ford was a Toronto city councillor during the tenure of his brother, Rob Ford, as mayor of Toronto. In 2014, Doug took over this brother's mayoral campaign, running against Olivia Chow and eventual winner John Tory.

Provincially, Ford's riding as a member of Provincial Parliament is in the Toronto suburb of Etobicoke.

Doug Ford has also been accused of meddling in Toronto's politics, such as through his policies of Toronto-specific bike lane removals and shrinking the city council.

Toronto City Council

Main article: 2018 Toronto municipal election

Ford believes that the constitution does not prevent provincial governments from changing the size of municipal councils, even after an election campaign has already begun. After his government's legislation to reduce the number of wards represented at Toronto City Council was ruled unconstitutional, Ford pledged to invoke section 33's notwithstanding clause of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms which would allow him to bypass the Charter and implement the legislation regardless of the court's ruling. The Ontario Court of Appeal later ruled in Ford's favour and allowed his modification to the council. The matter was further appealed by the City of Toronto and is now under consideration by the Supreme Court.

Public transit

Ford is a proponent of subways. He believed that the provincial government should assume control over the Toronto subway. In February 2020, Ford and Toronto Mayor John Tory signed a preliminary agreement which would see the province assume "sole responsibility for the planning, design and construction" for Ontario Line, the three-stop Line 2 subway extension into Scarborough, the Yonge North subway extension and the Eglinton Crosstown west extension. In 2020, construction began on the Hurontario LRT line in Mississauga and Brampton, with all of the subway projects beginning procurement or construction by June 2024.

Ford has been criticized for failing to open the Eglinton Crosstown, which reached its 14th year of construction in 2024. This prompted calls for a public inquiry by local city councillors.

Municipal spending cuts

In 2019, the government announced that it would adjust the cost-sharing arrangement for Toronto Public Health and Toronto Paramedic Services resulting in retroactive cuts that would total $177 million a year and $1 billion cut in Toronto over 10 years. The cuts were criticized by City officials including Medical Officer of Health Dr. Eileen de Villa, Health board chair Joe Cressy, and Mayor John Tory. The City projected that the additional financial pressure resulting from would result in further cuts to municipal services or increased taxes. Amidst backlash, Ford announced that the province would keep the cost-sharing arrangement and re-evaluate it at the end of the fiscal year.

Bill 66

On December 6, 2018, the Ford government tabled its omnibus bill, Bill 66. The bill allows municipalities to request a provincial government override of any regulations that currently deter businesses from locating in the region. Ford's political opponents and groups that promote environmental protection raised concerns that the "opaque", "vague language" in Bill 66 could mean clean water regulations and other bylaws that protect environmentally sensitive land could be bypassed. According to a December 7 Globe and Mail article, under Bill 66, municipalities would only be required to obtain permission from the minister of municipal affairs, to override sections of the 2006 Clean Water Act, the 2015 Great Lakes Protection Act, the 2006 Lake Simcoe Protection Act, and the 2005 Greenbelt Act.

Strong-mayor powers

In September 2022, Ford's government passed the Strong Mayors, Building Homes Act that grants extra powers to the mayor of Toronto and the mayor of Ottawa within their mayor–council governments. The Act grants the mayors of Toronto and Ottawa direct control over the drafting of city budgets; the appointments and dismissals of their city managers and department leaders (except police chiefs, fire chiefs, or auditors general); vetoes over laws that may conflict with provincial priorities (which may be overturned if a supermajority of two-thirds of city councillors voted to do so); and the creation and reorganisation of municipal administrative departments.

Greenbelt controversy

Main article: Greenbelt scandal

Before Ford was first elected in 2018, a video emerged of him informing developers that he would "open up a big chunk of the Greenbelt" if elected. After a public outcry, Ford said he would replace any removed land and that his goal was to increase supply to reduce housing costs. Pre-election, Ford also pledged not to remove Rent Control, stating, "I have listened to the people, and I won't take rent control away from anyone. Period. When it comes to rent control, we're going to maintain the status quo." After taking office, Rent Control for all newly built or newly converted rental units was removed as a measure to incentivize developers to build more apartments, to help landlords cover costs and make profit, and to keep condo investors buying. After re-election in 2022, and amidst a worsening housing and affordability crisis, Ford became embroiled in controversy over properties released from Greenbelt protection. One developer had purchased property shortly before the decision was made. A total of 7,400 acres of Greenbelt land was removed, while 9,400 acres of land was added.

Ford has disagreed with criticism regarding his friendships with developers, saying, "no one can influence the Fords". Specifically, he called questions about the optics of developers attending his daughter's pre-wedding party in August 2022, "ridiculous". Ford sought clearance for the event from the Integrity Commissioner in January 2023. In February 2023, the Ontario Provincial Police anti-rackets branch were still looking into complaints about his government's decision to open up a portion of the Greenbelt for development. The OPP asked the RCMP to take over the file in August 2023, in order to avoid any perceived conflict of interest.

On August 9, 2023, the Auditor General released a report on the Greenbelt swap-out which found the government's flawed process had favoured certain developers who stood to earn over $8 billion. The AG also confirmed that alterations to the Greenbelt were not necessary to reach Ontario's housing target and that Housing Minister Steve Clark's chief of staff "failed to consider environmental, agricultural and financial risks and impacts". Calls from the opposition for Clark to resign were resisted by Ford and Clark himself, but Clark's chief of staff stepped down. At the end of August, Ontario's Integrity Commissioner found Clark had broken ethics rules, and on September 4, Clark tendered his resignation and was replaced by Paul Calandra. The following day, Ford reiterated he would follow 14 of the Auditor General's 15 recommendations but would proceed with allowing the construction of affordable homes under $500,000 for "newcomers and young people" on the Greenbelt. He also stated more applications to remove land from the Greenbelt would be reviewed. He did not answer a reporter's question about reinstating Rent Control, nor did he comment on calls from First Nation Chiefs across Ontario to return traditional territories to the Greenbelt.

On September 20, another minister from Ford's cabinet, Kaleed Rasheed, resigned over his relationship with a developer involved in the Greenbelt land swap. The next day, Ford announced that after continuous backlash from constituents and two reports regarding the flawed process of opening the Greenbelt he would reverse his decision to open the Greenbelt to development. He apologized to the people of Ontario and promised to encourage building within urban boundaries.

On October 10, the RCMP announced it was opening a criminal investigation into the allegations around developer favouritism in the Greenbelt land swap process used by the Province of Ontario.

On October 16, Minister Calandra tabled a bill that would restore the Greenbelt lands removed in 2022 and that any future changes to the Greenbelt would have to go through the legislature.

Bike infrastructure

In September 2024, it was reported that the Ford government was working on legislation to restrict the construction of new bike lanes that would require the removal of lanes for motor vehicles. While speaking with reporters, he stated his belief that bike lanes increased congestion and emergency vehicle times (though the City of Toronto has disputed that claim), and that they should be built on side streets rather than major arterial roads. In October 15, Ford announced that any such lanes would require provincial approval to be built, and that municipalities would need to demonstrate that the lanes would not have a "negative impact on vehicle traffic". He also announced that he would remove bike lanes from some arterial streets, such as Bloor Street, Yonge Street, and University Avenue in Toronto. This bill, named the Reducing Gridlock, Saving you Time Act also shielded the government from any lawsuits related to cyclist deaths, and passed on November 25, 2024. A court challenge was launched on December 11 to stop the removal of the Toronto bike lanes.

Hydro

During his election campaign Ford had promised to lower Ontario's electricity rates by 12 percent. During his campaign, in April 2018, he announced that in order to reduce electricity rates, he would redirect the province's dividends from partial ownership of Hydro One to subsidize market electricity rates, as well as absorbing the cost of conservation programs currently paid for by consumers, at an estimated cost of $800 million per year.

Ford attacked Hydro One CEO Mayo Schmidt, calling him "Kathleen Wynne's $6-million dollar man" in reference to his reported annual salary, and called on the utility's board of directors to resign. Ford vowed to fire them all if elected, although PC energy critic Todd Smith later clarified that the government cannot dismiss Hydro One's CEO directly. He opposed his predecessor's decision to privatize Hydro One, but does not plan to reverse the decision. His government passed legislation to publicly disclose and reduce the salaries of Hydro One's board members and executives. On July 11, 2018, Hydro One CEO Mayo Schmidt resigned along with the entire board.

According to Bloomberg News, by December 5, 2018, Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission, the state's regulators, rejected Hydro One's $3.4 Billion takeover of Avista because of "political risks in Ontario ... from provincial leaders who may not have the company's well being in mind". Bloomberg also reported that, if the merger was not approved by the state's regulators, Hydro One would have to pay CA$138 million break fee. Because Hydro One is partially owned by the Ontario government, Ontario ratepayers would also be paying the "Parent Termination Fee". Ford denies that he is to blame for the U.S. regulators' decision.

Public safety

Ford came under fire in December 2018 by Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Deputy Commissioner Brad Blair, who claimed Ford requested the OPP “purchase a large camper-type vehicle ... modified to specifications the premier's office would provide” and keep the costs “off the books.” The vehicle was intended for the premier to use for work, and reportedly was asked to include a swivel chair. The accusation followed on the heels of Ford appointing a longtime family friend to be the next OPP commissioner just days after lowering the requirements for the position.

In response to increasing calls for one, Ford has stated he opposes a ban on handguns in Ontario.

Ford opposes supervised drug injection sites.

Cannabis

Ford supports allowing licensed private retailers to sell cannabis, rather than a government monopoly like the LCBO.

Ford opposed the legalization of recreational cannabis. On January 22, 2019, Huffington Post reported that Ford's youngest daughter Kyla, a bodybuilder and fitness trainer, had posted videos promoting health benefits of CBD oil, a cannabis product which typically does not contain the psychoactive compound present in marijuana. Various publications claimed Kyla's promotion wasn't lawful. Ford's daughter took down the posts, but neither Ford nor his daughter commented on them.

Political patronage controversies

In July 2018, Ford hired Rueben Devlin, former PC Party president and a Ford family friend, as a health-care advisor at a salary of $350,000 plus expenses, more than Ford's own salary of $208,974.

In December 2018 Bob Paulson, who served as a Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officer for 32-years including as RCMP commissioner before retiring in 2017, called for an independent third-party inquiry into Ford's appointment in December 2018 of Toronto Police Superintendent Ron Taverner, who is a long-time friend of Ford, as the new commissioner of the Ontario Provincial Police. By March 2019, Taverner had stepped down following "months of controversy" that "triggered an integrity commissioner investigation".

A June 20, 2019, article in the Toronto Star said that Ford had awarded "plum patronage posts to two political allies". He hired Jag Badwal as Ontario's agent-general to Britain and the United States with an annual salary of $185,000. Ford named Earl Provost as Ontario's agent-general to Chicago.

On June 28, 2019, Ford's chief of staff, Dean French, resigned "amid a patronage scandal". According to a Globe and Mail article, French resigned "after it was revealed that two people with personal ties to , 26 year-old Tyler Albrecht and Taylor Shields were appointed to lucrative positions in New York and London. The Toronto Sun reported in a June 27, 2019, article that 26-year-old Tyler Albrecht, who had a "thin resume", was proposed for a "job that paid $165,000 a year, plus housing and other expenses" as Ontario's "new trade rep in New York City". His qualification was "that he played lacrosse with French's son". TVO's Steve Paikin cited the example of Taylor Shields, who is French's wife's cousin, who was appointed as the trade representative in London, England, with a salary of $185,000 plus expenses. Just hours before French resigned, Ford had cancelled Albrecht's and Shields' appointments. Thomas Staples, who played on St. Michael's College Varsity Lacrosse team with French as coach, worked in the office of Bill Walker, who was chief government whip. When Walker became minister of government and consumer services in November 2018, Staples worked as his executive assistant and legislative affairs advisor. According to iPolitics, Staples had not completed his undergraduate studies, and had neither the qualifications nor work experience in politics. French's niece, Katherine Pal, who had been appointed as Ontario's Public Accounts Council resigned after her family ties to French were revealed. According to Paikin, Pal was well qualified to be Public Accounts Council but she resigned because of the bad optics. On July 4, Peter Fenwick, who served as Ontario's first "strategic transformation adviser" since November 2018, was fired when it was revealed in an interview with The Star that "Fenwick has been a life insurance customer of French's for at least 20 years". On July 10, Andrew Suboch, a "personal injury and insurance lawyer" who had served as chair of the Justices of the Peace Appointments Advisory Committee (JPAAC), informed the JPAAC that he was resigning immediately after an article in the Globe revealed that Suboch was another of French's "long-time" friends whose sons played lacrosse together for many years.

Ontario Place Controversy

In 2021, Ford released his vision for Ontario Place. This park used to be an amusement park before being shut down in 2011, and was due to be revitalized. Ford's revitalization plan included a new spa, adventure park, and expanded stage. However, an attorney general report released in December 2024 called the revitalization 'not fair, transparent or accountable'.

The private spa was to be built and operated by Therme, an Austrian spa company. Its construction requires the clear-cutting of Ontario Place's West Island, a process which has bulldozed over 850 trees. The Ontario government is also obligated to build a substantial parking component for the spa at taxpayers' expense (even as an expanded GO train station and a new subway line are being built nearby). The cost to provide this parking is at 400 million dollars as of May 2024. Per the attorney general report, other bids would have privately funded this parking, with 3 of the 10 bids also providing a public park as well as the funding the parking lot.

In 2024, Ford's government closed down the Ontario Science Centre due to a report suggesting that the roof tiles of the science centre could collapse without repairs. However, the company that originally built the science center said that the building does not need to be shut down, and offered to fix it. Now-nobel laureate Geoffrey Hinton pledged 1 million dollars to help rebuild the science center, but this did not stop the Ford government's plan: the science center will still be moved to Ontario Place in 2029 at the earliest, and into a space that is 50% smaller than the previous one. The updated budget in 2024 pushed the cost to build the new, smaller science center to 1.4 billion, less than maintaining it at its current location, which is assessed at 1.3 billion. As of Fall 2024, parts of the Science Center's contents are scattered around malls in the GTA for temporary exhibits.

The total cost of the Ontario Place redevelopment is $2.2 billion as of 2024, up from around 400 million predicted in 2019.

COVID-19 pandemic

Main article: COVID-19 pandemic in Ontario

Initial outbreak

In December 2019, an outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was first identified in Wuhan, Hubei, China; it spread worldwide and was recognized as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11, 2020. The first confirmed case in Canada was in Ontario—reported on January 27, 2020.

On March 17, Ford declared a state of emergency in Ontario, closing bars and restaurants (with the exception of take-out and delivery services), as well as libraries, theatres, cinemas, schools and daycares and all public gatherings of more than 50 people (later reduced to 5 people on March 28). Furthermore, the government announced on March 17 that Ontario had "some evidence of community transmission" of COVID-19.

On March 23, Ford announced that all "non-essential" businesses be ordered closed starting 11:59 p.m. On March 24, Ford also stated that schools would remain closed past the original April 6 opening date (on May 19 it was announced that schools would remain closed until the following school year in September). A list of 74 "essential" businesses was published later in the day on March 23.

On March 25, Ford and Finance Minister Rod Phillips introduced a $17-billion response package that includes an influx of cash for the health sector, direct payments to parents and tax breaks for businesses.

Third wave

On April 9, 2021, Ford received his first dose of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine at a local pharmacy in Toronto, and encouraged eligible Ontarians to get vaccinated.

Amid growing case numbers in mid-2021, the government moved to introduce a third province-wide stay at home order. As part of the response, Ford announced on April 16, 2021, that outdoor amenities including playgrounds would be closed, and that he would be authorizing police to require pedestrians and drivers to explain why they are not at home and provide their home address and other relevant details. The regulations raised concerns about a re-legalization of carding. The government experienced significant backlash with the new enforcement measures, with some commentators – such as the National Post's Randall Denley, a former PC politician – equating the province to a "police state" Members of the Ontario COVID-19 Science Table described the new restrictions as "absolute madness", and not based on science questioning the need to restrict "safe options from people as you do nothing to impact the places where the disease is spreading". After dozens of police services across the province announced that they would refuse to enforce the new measures, Ford promptly rolled back the new enforcement provisions the next day and reopened playgrounds, while keeping other outdoor amenities closed.

Over the weekend following the introduction of new orders, calls for Ford's resignation over his handling of the COVID-19 crisis grew, In April 2021, Ford revealed that he had been in isolation following contact with one of his staffers, who had contracted COVID-19. Ford announced on April 30, 2021, that he had asked the federal government to stop international students from coming into the province in an effort to curb the third wave.

Omicron variant

During the emergence of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 in December 2021 and January 2022, Ford's government announced in December 2021 new restrictions on indoor settings. After growing calls for third or booster doses of COVID-19 vaccines, the government allowed all Ontarians over 18 years of age to receive a third dose on December 20, 2021.

On January 3, 2022, Ford announced that Ontario would be moving into modified Step 2 on January 5, closing indoor dining, gyms, movie theatres and schools. These restrictions were lifted on January 31. What followed was the end of all vaccine mandates on March 14, the end of most mask mandates on March 21, and the end of all COVID-19 measures (including the remaining mask requirements) on April 27.

On September 7, 2023, the Ombudsman of Ontario's Investigation into the Ministry of Long-Term Care's oversight into long-term care homes through inspection and enforcement during the COVID-19 pandemic was released. The report detailed the collapse of the LTC inspection system and how the Ministry failed to protect residents by ceasing inspections for the first 7–12 weeks of the pandemic, and by only applying low-level enforcement action for serious infractions. It noted that the Fixing Long-Term Care Act, which came into force in April 2022, could help long-term care homes to be better prepared for future pandemics.

Cabinet mandate letters

Mandate letters requested by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation through a freedom of information request were not released to the public, despite being ordered to by the Ontario information and privacy commissioner in 2019. The final appeal of the decision is now being sent to the Supreme Court of Canada.

First nations relations

In March 2021, Ford publicly accused MPP Sol Mamakwa of "jumping the line" to receive his second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, despite being eligible to receive it. Mamakwa went to his riding to receive the vaccine as an attempt to prevent vaccine hesitancy amongst his constituents. On Thursday, March 11, 2021, Ford apologised for his remark and later said he "got a little personal" when throwing the accusation at Mamakwa. Mamakwa did not say that he accepted Ford's apology but stated that he appreciated the call from Ford.

In September 2021, an Ontario judge issued an injunction on mining in Wiisinin Zaahgi'igan (an area sacred to the Ginoogaming First Nation peoples). The judge ruled that the Ontario government did not consult with the Ginoogaming as is their constitutional duty.

Ford's 2024 Reducing Gridlock, Saving you Time Act removed the requirement for future Indigenous consultation for the upcoming highway 413 in a possible contravention of Ontario's Environmental Assessment Act. In addition, the Indigenous consultation period for the bill was only 30 days, decried by the regional chief as 'too short'.

2022 general election

Main article: 2022 Ontario general election
Ford attending a campaign rally in Oshawa, May 2022

Ford led the Progressive Conservatives to another majority government in the 2022 provincial election. The PCs gained seven more seats than they had won in 2018, with an increased share of the vote.

Political endorsements and ideology

Ford actively supported the two Toronto mayoral campaigns of his brother Rob Ford and former Toronto police chief Mark Saunders. In federal politics, Ford supports the Conservative Party of Canada and several provincial conservative parties, including the Alberta United Conservative Party. However, federal Conservative leaders Andrew Scheer and later leader Erin O'Toole attempted to distance themselves from him. Ford did not campaign for O'Toole during the 2021 federal election campaign.

Ford with Andrew Scheer, former leader of the Conservative Party of Canada

In 2018 and 2019, Ford was seen as a staunch critic of the federal government of Liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Ford opposed the Trudeau government's imposed carbon tax and urged voters to vote out the Trudeau-led Liberals in the 2019 federal election. However, since 2020, journalists have noted a change in Ford's attitude towards the Trudeau government. In April 2020, Susan Delacourt of the Toronto Star wrote Ford "forged an unlikely friendship" with Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland when combatting the COVID-19 pandemic; in August of that year, Ford praised Freeland's appointment as finance minister. Around this time Ford insisted he was not a partisan politician. In March 2022, John Ibbitson of The Globe and Mail wrote that there was a "political bromance" between Ford and Trudeau. In October 2022, Ford said he supported the Trudeau government's invocation of the Emergencies Act in response to the Canada convoy protest.

After Ford led the Progressive Conservatives to another majority victory in 2022, his political ideology was described as centrist by columnists Kelly McParland and Susan Delacourt.

In 2018, Ford endorsed the economic policies of the Republican Party and the presidency of Donald Trump in the United States, saying his support for Trump is "unwavering". After Trump announced tariffs on Canadian aluminum imports in August 2020, Ford expressed his disapproval, calling Trump's policy "totally unacceptable". After the 2024 United States presidential election, Ford congratulated Donald Trump and said it was "time to bet big" on Ontario–US relations. However, after Trump announced 25% tariffs on Canada, he staunchly opposed them.

Ford called pro-Palestinian protests in Ontario during the 2023 Israel–Hamas war "hate rallies".

Personal life

Family

Main article: Ford family (Canada)

Ford and his wife Karla (née Middlebrook) have four daughters: Krista, Kayla, Kara, and Kyla.

In 2018, Ford's sister-in-law, through his late brother, Rob, sued Doug and Randy for mismanagement of Rob's estate, saying their actions deprived her and her children of due compensation while overseeing business losses at Deco Labels totalling half of the company's market value. In response, Doug alleged that the claims and the lawsuit's timing in the same week as the 2018 Ontario election amounted to extortion.

Ford's mother Diane died from cancer in January 2020.

Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ford's daughter Krista has controversially engaged in the spread of COVID-19 misinformation and conspiracy theories. In December 2021, Krista and her husband participated in The Christian Fight for Freedom, a panel discussion which included discussions that were anti-vaccine and anti-mask in nature. The event was advertised as having special guests "Dave and Krista Haynes, family of the premier Doug Ford".

Health

Ford became an "ethical vegetarian" after working in a meatpacking plant as a teenager, and while this is no longer the case, he was still not eating red meat as of 2011. Ford, who is obese, has struggled with his weight at least since 2012, when he publicly attempted a weight loss challenge. Ford is occasionally fat shamed in the media, having been previously called "unfashionably overweight". Ford is a teetotaler.

On January 8, 2025, Ford was unharmed after an OPP vehicle he was travelling in was involved in a collision on Highway 401. The driver of the other involved vehicle is believed to have sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

Philanthropy

In 2014, Ford and his mother donated $90,000 to Humber River Hospital, where Rob Ford was receiving care.

Electoral record

Municipal election record

2010 Toronto election, Ward 2
Candidate Votes %
Doug Ford 12,660 71.68
Cadigia Ali 2,346 13.28
Luciano Rizzuti 828 4.69
Rajinder Lall 736 4.17
Andrew Saikaley 637 3.60
Jason Pedlar 455 2.58
Total 17,662 100.00
2014 Toronto mayoral election
Candidate Votes %
John Tory 394,775 40.28
Doug Ford 330,610 33.73
Olivia Chow 227,003 23.15
64 other candidates 7,913 2.84
Total 980,177 100.00

Ontario PC Party leadership election

2018 Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario leadership election
Candidate Ballot 1 Ballot 2 Ballot 3
Name Votes Points Votes Change Points Change Votes Change Points Change
Christine Elliott 23,237
36.28%
4,187
34.13%
24,138
37.99%
901
1.71%
4,394
35.82%
207
1.69%
32,202
51.74%
8,064
13.75%
6,049
49.38%
1,655
13.56%
Doug Ford 20,363
31.80%
4,091
33.35%
27,812
43.77%
7,449
11.97
5,652
46.08%
1,561
12.73%
30,041
48.26%
2,229
4.49%
6,202
50.62%
550
4.54%
Caroline Mulroney 11,099
17.33%
2,107
17.18%
11,595
18.25%
496
0.92%
2,221
18.11%
114
0.93%
eliminated
Tanya Granic Allen 9,344
14.596%
1,882
15.34%
eliminated
Total 64,043 12,267 63,545 −498 12,267 0 62,243 −1,302 12,251 −16

Provincial election record

2018 Ontario general election
Party Candidate Votes % ±%
Progressive Conservative Doug Ford 19,055 52.48 +29.73
New Democratic Mahamud Amin 9,210 25.37 −0.84
Liberal Shafiq Qaadri 6,601 18.18 −26.73
Green Nancy Kaur Ghuman 1,026 2.83 +0.33
Libertarian Brianne Lefebvre 414 1.14 +1.14
Total valid votes 36,306 100.0  
Progressive Conservative gain from Liberal Swing +15.30
Source: Elections Ontario


2022 Ontario general election: Etobicoke North
Party Candidate Votes % ±% Expenditures
Progressive Conservative Doug Ford 13,934 55.51 +3.02 $80,899
Liberal Julie Lutete 5,884 23.44 +5.26 $61,441
New Democratic Aisha Jahangir 3,290 13.11 −12.26 $20,065
Ontario Party Andy D'Andrea 782 3.12   $6,413
Green Gabriel Blanc 690 2.75 −0.08 $301
New Blue Victor Ehikwe 391 1.56   $10,802
People's Political Party Carol Royer 132 0.53   $950
Total valid votes/expense limit 25,013 99.22 +0.34 $105,547
Total rejected, unmarked, and declined ballots 198 0.78 -0.34
Turnout 25,301 33.98 −16.60
Eligible voters 75,388
Progressive Conservative hold Swing −1.12
Source(s)

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Works cited

Further reading

  • McDonald, Marci (2012). "The Incredible Shrinking Mayor". Toronto Life (May 2012): 40–54.

External links

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