Doug Ford's PCs and NDP Hold Seats in Ontario Byelections
Premier Doug Ford and the NDP maintained their seats in three provincial byelections as voters weighed local affordability against a trade war with the United States.
The Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario and the New Democratic Party maintained their respective seats in three provincial byelections held on September 3, 2026. Progressive Conservative candidates Jeff Beattie and Susan Lahey won in Hamilton East–Stoney Creek and York–Simcoe, while the NDP's Fatima Shaban won in Scarborough Southwest. Voter turnout across the three races was just over 25%.
Doug Ford, the Premier of Ontario, attributed the results to voters backing his government to stand up to U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs. He stated that his government would continue to fight to protect jobs and communities. Analysts noted that the PC victories reflect a rebound in Ford's popularity following his public confrontations with the United States over trade disputes.
NDP Leader Marit Stiles claimed the results prove her party is the only one capable of defeating the Progressive Conservatives. The victory in Scarborough Southwest was particularly critical for the NDP, which has recently trailed the Liberals in polling. While candidates noted that health care, education, and affordability remained primary concerns for voters, the trade war with the United States significantly influenced the outcome.