Introduction

The Ontario New Democratic Party (NDP) leader, Marit Stiles, has taken a firm stand urging a united front to protect jobs in Ontario rather than diverting focus toward an early provincial election.

Stiles' Urgency

Speaking at a recent news conference in Windsor, Stiles emphasized the urgent need to combat the looming tariff threat posed by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. She believes it is crucial for Premier Doug Ford to prioritize discussions around these tariffs rather than entertain the prospect of a snap election.

Call for Political Unity

"This isn't a time for political games," Stiles stated. "We will fight like hell for every job in Ontario and for every working person, regardless of political affiliation." Stiles insisted that her party is ready to collaborate with Ford's government to counter the tariffs, particularly in sectors like automotive, agriculture, and forestry that face potential devastation from Trump’s proposed policies.

Frustration with Election Talks

Stiles expressed her frustration with the idea of moving towards polls, saying, “There's no need for an election when so much is at stake. We should be focusing on how to protect our workers and industries from these serious threats.” She called on Ford to set aside political ambitions and instead partner with the NDP to safeguard Ontario's economic interests.

Meeting with Union Leaders

During her visit, Stiles was accompanied by Windsor West MPP Lisa Gretzky, Windsor-Tecumseh NDP candidate Gemma Grey Hall, and Windsor West MP Brian Mass. Before addressing the media, she met with leaders from Unifor Locals 444, 200, and 195, emphasizing solidarity among frontline workers who could be affected by the tariffs.

The Tariff Threat

The backdrop to these calls is Trump’s announcement to impose a staggering 25 percent tariff on all Canadian imports, which has raised alarm bells across the province. Trump's administration has linked the tariff implementation to combating illegal drug trafficking and border crossing issues, signaling a complex interplay of trade and immigration policies.

Looking Ahead

With the next Ontario provincial election slated for June 2026, the question remains: Will Stiles and Ford be able to put aside differences for the greater good of Ontario’s workers? As tension builds on both the trade front and the political landscape, Ontarians are left watching and waiting to see if cooperation can override political aspirations during such critical times.