Ontario voters are set to head to the polls on February 27, 2025, after Premier Doug Ford called an early election. With four major parties vying for leadership, this election will shape the province's direction on key issues such as healthcare, education, affordability, and economic growth.
Here's a look at the leaders of Ontario’s main political parties and what they bring to the race.
Election News Delivered To Your Inbox
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Central Ontario Broadcasting, 431 Huronia Rd, Barrie, Ontario, CA, https://www.cobroadcasting.com. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact
Doug Ford – Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
Doug Ford, leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario, is seeking a third consecutive term as premier. Born on November 20, 1964, in Etobicoke, now part of Toronto, Ford had a career in business before entering politics. He spent years running Deco Labels, his family’s business, and led its expansion into the U.S.
Ford entered politics in 2010, winning a seat on Toronto City Council. He later took over leadership of the Progressive Conservatives in 2018, leading them to a decisive majority victory. Under his leadership, the PC government has focused on infrastructure projects, lowering taxes, and expanding access to beer and wine in retail stores—an issue that has drawn both praise and criticism. His campaign is centered on economic growth, job creation, and affordability for Ontarians.
For more details on Doug Ford, read the full article here.
Bonnie Crombie – Ontario Liberal Party
Bonnie Crombie has led the Ontario Liberal Party since late 2023. Born on February 5, 1960, she grew up in a rooming house in Toronto’s west end with her mother and grandparents. Her early career included marketing roles at McDonald's and Walt Disney before transitioning to government relations.
Crombie has been a lifelong Liberal, first entering politics as a Member of Parliament in 2008. After losing her federal seat in 2011, she moved into municipal politics, serving as a Mississauga councillor before winning the city’s mayoral race in 2014. After nearly a decade as mayor, she stepped down in 2024 to lead the Ontario Liberals.
Her campaign focuses on healthcare, education, and affordability, positioning herself as a strong alternative to Ford’s Progressive Conservatives. She has been critical of Ford’s handling of Ontario’s finances and healthcare system, arguing for stronger public investment in essential services.
For more on Bonnie Crombie, read the full article here.
Marit Stiles – Ontario New Democratic Party
Marit Stiles has been at the helm of the Ontario New Democratic Party since 2023. Born on September 20, 1969, in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, she grew up on a small farm before moving to Ottawa for university.
Her career in politics began as an assistant to prominent NDP members before serving as the national director at ACTRA, an entertainment industry union. She was elected as a Toronto District School Board trustee and later won the Toronto riding of Davenport in the 2018 Ontario election. As a key opposition voice, she served as the NDP’s education critic before becoming leader.
Stiles has positioned herself as a champion for working people, advocating for stronger protections for workers, affordable housing, and an end to privatization in healthcare and education. She has been critical of Ford’s approach to labor and public services, arguing for policies that put people before profits.
For more details on Marit Stiles, read the full article here.
Mike Schreiner – Green Party of Ontario
Mike Schreiner has been the leader of the Green Party of Ontario since 2009, making him the longest-serving leader among the major parties. Born on June 9, 1969, in Kansas, Schreiner grew up on a grain and cattle farm before moving to Canada in 1995. He became a Canadian citizen in 2007.
Before politics, Schreiner was an entrepreneur, co-founding EarthDance Organics and Local Food Plus, both of which focused on sustainable food production. He became the first Green MPP elected to the Ontario legislature in 2018, representing the riding of Guelph.
Schreiner has made climate action, affordable housing, and healthcare central themes of his campaign. He argues that the Green Party is the only party prioritizing long-term sustainability while addressing pressing affordability concerns for Ontarians.
For more on Mike Schreiner, read the full article here.
Early voting
With the Ontario election set for February 27, early voting options are available for those who wish to cast their ballots ahead of time.
For more information on how and where to vote early, read the full article here.
The race ahead
As the campaign unfolds, Ontarians will hear more from each leader about their vision for the province. Whether voters seek continuity with Ford’s leadership, a shift to Crombie’s centrist Liberal platform, Stiles’ progressive approach, or Schreiner’s green-focused policies, this election promises to be a pivotal moment for Ontario’s future.
Stay tuned for further coverage as the Ontario provincial election approaches.
See all election news coverage here.
