Saying he needs a mandate from Ontario’s voters in light of the trade war with the United States, Premier Doug Ford has called a snap election. Voters head to the polls February 27.
In the Bay of Quinte, this means MPP Tyler Allsopp is heading back out on the campaign trail for the second time in just five months. Mr. Allsopp won the September 19 Bay of Quinte by election to replace MPP Todd Smith.
“I’m very much looking forward to it, I’ve picked up a pair of waterproof running shoes that should help me stay warm going door-to-door,” Mr. Allsop quipped when asked about getting back out on the campaign trail so soon.
The MPP noted tariffs would affect up to 500,000 jobs in Ontario. Economic stimulus programs and legislation supporting businesses are on the agenda.
In the by-election held September 2024, the Liberal candidate, then Sean Kelly, came just 2000 votes short of the Progressive Conservative candidate, new BoQ MPP Tyler Allsopp.
New to the ballot but a familiar name is Liberal candidate David O’Neil, son of the late Hugh O’Neil, MPP for Quinte for 20 years. Mr. O’Neill held a number of cabinet posts in the David Peterson government.
David O’Neil is a councillor in Quinte West and said he’s eager for the challenge.
“My father was an MPP and cabinet minister and I always looked up to him and had aspirations of following in his footsteps, which led me to council originally. When this opportunity came my way, I just couldn’t turn it down.”
“I think we can win.”
Joining the MPP on the Bay of Quinte ballot are a pair of challengers from the by-election. Amanda Roberston stands again for the New Democratic Party, and Lori Borthwick for the Green Party of Ontario.
”It’s disappointing to see the Premier make a moment of instability and uncertainty into an opportunity to advance his own interests,” said Ms. Robertson.
“The $150 million price tag to run this election early, is money that could have been better spent safeguarding our economy from external threats — or addressing the numerous crises we are experiencing here at home.”
The Bay of Quinte Greens preemptively nominated Ms. Borthwick as their candidate back in December. Ms. Borthwick affirmed she is a strong believer in the Ontario Greens’ plan to invest in public healthcare and act on the social determinants of health, including ensuring everyone has access to safe and affordable housing.
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