Ontario Premier Doug Ford pushed back against recent polling data on June 23, 2026, asserting that his popularity remains robust despite surveys showing a decline. Speaking at a news conference in Toronto, Ford declared, 'I'm no Justin Trudeau,' suggesting that his political standing cannot be measured by polls alone.
Ford Dismisses Polling Data
Ford's comments came in response to a series of polls indicating that his approval ratings have slipped in recent months. The premier argued that polls are not always accurate and that he connects with Ontarians on a personal level. 'I talk to people every day, and they tell me they support what we're doing,' Ford said.
Comparison to Trudeau
By invoking former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Ford drew a contrast between his own political style and that of his federal counterpart. Trudeau's popularity waned significantly during his tenure, and Ford sought to distance himself from that trajectory. 'We're getting things done for the people of Ontario,' Ford emphasized.
Context of the Remarks
The news conference was held amid a busy news day, with other stories ranging from a sentencing in the Toronto Pearson gold heist to human remains found in Whistler, B.C. Ford's comments on poll numbers were part of a broader update on provincial matters.
Reactions and Analysis
Political analysts noted that Ford's dismissal of polls is a common tactic among politicians facing declining numbers. However, they pointed out that internal party polling often tells a different story. According to a recent survey by Abacus Data, Ford's approval rating stood at 38%, down from 45% earlier in the year.
The premier's remarks also come as his government faces challenges on multiple fronts, including healthcare and education. Critics argue that Ford's focus on poll numbers distracts from substantive policy issues.
