Doug Ford Approval Hits Record Low Amid Expense Scandal

A July poll by Liaison Strategies shows Doug Ford reaching a record low approval rating of 24 percent, with 72 percent of respondents disapproving of his performance. The decline coincides with a spending scandal involving Progressive Conservative MPPs who billed taxpayers tens of thousands of dollars for hotel stays in Toronto, despite some members living within commuting distance of the legislature.

Premier Ford characterized the expense claims as "unacceptable" and ordered the members to repay the funds. The scandal led to the resignation of former tourism minister Stan Cho last week after he billed approximately $16,000 for hotel stays.

Political momentum has shifted toward the leaderless Ontario Liberal Party, which now holds a lead over the governing Progressive Conservatives. Depending on the polling metric, the Liberals hold between 33 percent and 38 percent support, while the PCs trail at 29 to 33 percent. The New Democratic Party follows with support between 21 and 24 percent.

Liaison Strategies principal David Valentin noted that the scandal reinforces a negative perception of the government during a period of high household costs. Public concern is further highlighted by the poll's finding that 73 percent of Ontarians believe data-centre development will increase household electricity bills.