Polling disengaged Ontarians

Ontarians are the least likely Canadians to identify themselves in regional terms. Many, particularly immigrants, have never lived in another part of Canada, where consciousness of regional marginality is hard to escape. That is a difference between residents in outer and inner Canada.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford last went to the polls on Feb. 27, 2025, and the next election must be held on or before April 11, 2030. The Progressive Conservatives hold 78 of the 122 seats in the Ontario Legislative Assembly, the NDP 26, the Liberals 14, the Greens two, and there are two Independents. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Opinion

BY NELSON WISEMAN

July 16, 2026

TORONTO—Former prime minister John Diefenbaker was famous for his wit if not wisdom. Asked by a reporter about an unfavourable election result, he looked at the camera and, with a twinkle in his eye, cited a note from a female supporter: “Keep your pecker up.” When ask...

To keep reading, subscribe and become a political insider.

Only $7.76 a week for an annual subscription.

Enjoy unlimited website access and the digital newspaper.

Cancel anytime.

Already a Subscriber?

Get Weekend Point of View Newsletter

A round up of the past weekâ€™s opinion writers and columnists on Saturdays and Sundays.

By entering your email address you consent to receive email from The Hill Times containing news, analysis, updates and offers. You may unsubscribe at any time. See our privacy policy

FOLLOW THE HILL TIMES: