Doug Ford: Canada’s Rightwing Populist Takes Center Stage in Trade Battle
Can Ontario’s Premier Leverage His Anti-Trump Stance into Another Election Victory?
The day Donald Trump clinched the U.S. presidency was a moment of celebration for Doug Ford. The Ontario premier, who governs Canada’s most populous province and its largest economic hub, shared his enthusiasm with colleagues and supporters in private remarks—only for a live microphone to inadvertently broadcast his excitement.
However, Ford’s admiration for Trump took a sharp turn when the former president imposed tariffs on Canada.
“The guy pulled out the knife and fucking yanked it into us,” Ford lamented. “We’re supposed to be his closest allies, his closest friend. It’s terrible.”
Never one to back down from a fight, Ford pivoted to use the crisis to his advantage. He called a snap election, arguing he needed an overwhelming mandate to shield Ontario’s economy. Critics decried the move as opportunistic, accusing Ford of manufacturing chaos for political gain.
Despite facing progressive backlash for deteriorating healthcare services, underfunded schools, and a controversial land development scandal, Ford has reinvented himself as a staunch defender of Canada’s interests. He has twice left the campaign trail to advocate for Ontario in Washington, a move that underscores his “Captain Canada” persona. As Ontarians prepare to vote, Ford’s influence extends beyond his province, shaping the national political discourse in unprecedented ways.
If Ford secures a third consecutive majority—an unprecedented feat in Ontario history—it will affirm his distinct blend of political cunning, charisma, and strategic ruthlessness.
From the Shadow of Rob Ford to Political Dominance
For years, Doug Ford was overshadowed by his younger brother, Rob Ford, the infamously scandal-ridden former mayor of Toronto, best known for his admission of crack cocaine use. When Rob’s health deteriorated during his 2014 reelection bid, Doug stepped in as his replacement, though he ultimately lost.
The campaign, however, solidified Doug’s standing as the heir to a brash, populist movement that appealed to suburban voters and pro-business conservatives. Following Rob’s death in 2016, Doug set his sights on provincial leadership, securing a decisive victory in 2018.
Like his brother, Doug cultivates an image of accessibility, often handing out his personal phone number to constituents. During snowstorms, he is seen shoveling driveways and helping stranded motorists.
“The thing about Doug Ford is that he really cares about people,” said Fred DeLorey, a senior adviser for his 2025 reelection bid. “A lot of politicians say that, but with him, I truly believe it’s sincere.”
Ford’s family has deep conservative roots. His father, Doug Ford Sr., was elected to the Ontario legislature in the 1990s. The family’s lucrative label-making business further cemented their political and economic influence.
However, Ford’s past has not been without controversy. A 2013 Globe and Mail report alleged that he was involved in the 1980s drug trade, specifically as a hashish dealer. Ford has categorically denied the claims, with his lawyer condemning the reporting as “irresponsible journalism.”
Leadership Through Crisis and Controversy
Ford’s tenure as premier has been marked by significant moments, including his early handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Unlike some conservative counterparts, Ford largely followed public health recommendations. He became visibly emotional when a report exposed the deplorable conditions in Ontario’s long-term care homes, vowing accountability.
Despite this, Ford has developed a reputation for governing with a grudge—particularly against Toronto, where he has never enjoyed strong electoral support. His decisions to remove bike lanes, greenlight controversial private developments, and shutter the Ontario Science Centre have fueled accusations of vindictiveness.
“He just causes chaos,” said Toronto publisher Dave Bidini. “A lot of his politics are about testing limits—seeing what he can get away with.”
The biggest scandal of Ford’s tenure erupted in 2022, when his government proposed opening 7,400 acres of protected Greenbelt land for development. The decision, widely seen as a boon for developers, sparked public outrage. Although Ford eventually reversed course, the scandal cost him key cabinet ministers and led to federal investigations.
At a somber press conference, Ford admitted fault. “I made a promise that I wouldn’t touch the Greenbelt. I broke that promise. And for that, I am very, very sorry.” Ontario’s ethics commissioner cleared him of any wrongdoing, but federal police inquiries continue.
A Pragmatist in a Polarized Era
Unlike many modern conservatives, Ford has resisted deep ideological entrenchment. He has forged unexpected alliances, including a working relationship with former federal finance minister Chrystia Freeland.
“Above all, Ford is a pragmatist,” said Andrea Lawlor, a political scientist at McMaster University. “He prioritizes maintaining office, but he genuinely has a commitment to the ‘little guy.’ That drives a lot of his decisions.”
This adaptability has allowed Ford to attract union endorsements and pull voters away from progressive parties. His ability to appeal across ideological lines has solidified his dominance in Ontario politics.
Canada’s Unexpected Voice Against Trump
Ford’s leadership on trade has earned him cross-partisan praise, particularly as tensions with the U.S. mount over potential tariffs. Regularly appearing on American news networks, he has positioned himself as a staunch defender of Canada’s economy.
His branding as “Captain Canada” was cemented when he walked into a high-profile trade summit wearing a MAGA-style hat emblazoned with the words: “CANADA IS NOT FOR SALE.”
“We will never be for sale,” Ford told The Guardian. “We don’t want to retaliate. But if it comes down to it, [the Americans] are going to feel pain.”
Despite his assertive stance on trade, some argue Ford’s latest election gambit is a calculated maneuver to secure power amid voter fatigue.
“He called this election in the dead of winter,” said Bidini. “The ground is too frozen to put up campaign signs, and the cold keeps people disengaged. It’s the perfect conditions for Ford to get the win he wants and shape his narrative.”
As Ontario heads to the polls, Ford’s bid for an unprecedented third term will test whether his populist, pragmatic brand of leadership still resonates with voters. Whether he wins or not, his influence on Canadian politics—both provincially and nationally—is undeniable.
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