Federal Election 2025: What It Means for Ontario

A centrist look at national choices through a provincial lens

As the 2025 federal election picks up momentum, we’re seeing a lot of national narratives take shape. Leaders are speaking to Canada, but here in Ontario, we have to ask: what do these promises and policies really mean for us?

This isn’t about who you support—it’s about whether Ontario’s voice, economy, and long-term growth are being reflected in the direction of this country.

Here’s my latest message breaking it down:

A few realities to keep in mind as Ontarians:

  • The Liberal record is long. And while Mark Carney is more polished than Trudeau, his direction appears similar—especially on federal oversight, energy infrastructure, and interprovincial negotiations. His effectiveness may actually accelerate the same agenda we’ve seen over the last decade.

  • Pierre Poilievre is presenting a change in tone and approach—focusing on affordability and freedom. But his party hasn’t yet offered clear answers on how that shift will translate to support for infrastructure, housing, or public services in Ontario. We need clarity, not just contrast.

  • Jagmeet Singh and the NDP are emphasizing social supports and housing affordability. That matters. But for Ontario to grow, we need those priorities matched with serious economic planning and respect for provincial autonomy—especially around healthcare and education delivery.

My perspective as a centrist and an Ontarian:

This election is about more than Ottawa. It’s about how decisions made federally will shape what we can build here, locally. We need policies that reflect the scale of Ontario’s contribution—industrially, economically, and demographically.

Ontario can and should lead—on clean energy, technology, housing innovation, and democratic stability. But we need a federal partner that listens, not lectures. One that respects the unique challenges our province faces and works with us to build long-term, sustainable growth.

What you can do:

  • Ask better questions about how federal policies affect Ontario—not just slogans, but delivery (details matter)

  • Think about national unity not as an abstract issue, but one that impacts Ontario’s trade, energy, and workforce

  • Stay informed, stay engaged, and help keep the conversation rooted in practical outcomes—not partisanship

Ontario isn’t waiting for permission to lead. But we do need partners who see the province not just as a vote-rich region—but as a builder of Canada’s future.

Let’s keep moving forward—together.
Let’s get to work.

 

Your Vote Is Powerful — But It Has to Be Thoughtful

This election, there’s a lot of emotion in the air—and for good reason. People are upset. The situation in Palestine and Israel is devastating, and it’s affecting how many voters are thinking about their choices.

Let me start by saying: I understand that. These are real issues that touch people deeply.

But as the Leader of the Ontario Centrist Party, I have to be clear—foreign policy is not something we control at the provincial level. Our job is to make decisions that impact your everyday life in Ontario:

  • Can you get the healthcare you need?

  • Is your child’s school doing right by them?

  • Can you afford to live in your own city?

  • Are jobs and small businesses being supported?

These are the things we work on. And these are the issues your provincial vote directly affects.

I also want to say something that might not be popular, but I think it’s important:
Voting based on one emotional issue—no matter how real—can lead to outcomes you didn’t intend. A lot of politicians are counting on that. They’ll say one thing to win your vote, and do something else once they have power.

This is why we need to take a step back and vote with a clear head.

Here’s what I ask of you:

  • Look at who’s actually aligned with your values across the board—not just on one issue.

  • Start with local impact. That’s where change begins.

  • Stay grounded. Emotions matter, but decisions made in anger or grief often get used against us.

  • Be thoughtful in how you express yourself. Protests and advocacy are important. But criminal behaviour or division won’t bring change—it only sets us back.

If we want things to get better—for everyone—we have to vote with intention, not just emotion.

Thanks for taking the time to reflect on this.
Let’s make it count.

– Mansoor Qureshi
Leader, Ontario Centrist Party

Tariffs, Unity, and the Road Ahead

Weekly Ontario Update – April 11, 2025

This week’s message covers some important ground for Ontarians and all Canadians.

In just a few minutes, I break down:

  • The real impact of U.S. tariffs on Ontario’s workers and industries

  • How the Ontario government is responding with $11B in support

  • Canada’s emerging role on the world stage — and why Ontario must lead

  • Growing concerns around transparency and democratic process

  • Why now is the time for steady, balanced leadership

We’re facing complex challenges, but I truly believe Ontario is ready to rise to the moment — with calm, confidence, and common sense.

As always, I welcome your thoughts. Let’s keep building a province that works for everyone — together.

Let’s get to work.