Doug Ford Delivers on Six-Year-Old Campaign Promise: A Strong Platform for a Snap Election

In this Article we talk about Doug Ford Delivers on Six-Year-Old Campaign Promise: A Strong Platform for a Snap Election. Ontario Premier Doug Ford has finally delivered on a six-year-old campaign promise that could play a pivotal role in any upcoming snap election. With beer, wine, cider, and premixed cocktails now available in over 4,000 licensed convenience stores across the province, Ford has realized a key pledge made during his 2018 campaign. This bold move gives Ford something substantial to take to voters, as it touches on consumer freedom, economic growth, and convenience.

Introduction

Six years ago, Premier Doug Ford campaigned on a promise to liberalize alcohol sales in Ontario. On Thursday, September 5, 2024, that promise became a reality as alcohol became available in thousands of convenience stores across the province. This move, which has been met with mixed reactions, marks a significant shift in the province’s alcohol policy and could have major implications for the upcoming election.

What is the Significance of This Change in Ontario’s Alcohol Sales Policy?

With this move, Ford’s Progressive Conservative government aims to modernize the way alcohol is sold in Ontario, aligning it with practices in other Canadian provinces. For years, Ontarians were limited in where they could buy beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages. Now, with the new policy in effect, consumers have the convenience of purchasing their preferred drinks from their local convenience stores.

Breaking Down the New Alcohol Sales Policy

The changes include:

• Beer, wine, cider, and premixed cocktails now available in 4,187 licensed convenience stores across Ontario.
• Supermarkets will be allowed to sell alcohol in various locations within their stores, not just in designated aisles.
• Bar and restaurant owners can transfer alcohol inventory between locations with fewer restrictions.

Delivering on a Six-Year-Old Campaign Promise Gives Doug Ford Something to Run on in a Snap Election

Ford’s fulfillment of this promise could not have come at a more strategic time. Speculation is growing that Ford might call an early election in 2025, and this policy achievement gives him a platform to rally voters. His ability to deliver on promises sets him apart, especially in a political climate where trust in government is often lacking.

Liberalizing Alcohol Sales in Ontario

Ford’s campaign pledge from 2018 was met with skepticism, as alcohol sales in Ontario had been tightly regulated for decades. The Liberal government under Kathleen Wynne made small moves toward liberalization, such as allowing six-packs and wine in select supermarkets. However, it was Ford’s administration that took the bold step to fully open up the market.

Key Milestones:

1. 2018 Election Promise: Ford pledges to expand alcohol sales to convenience stores.
2. 2023 Announcement: Progressive Conservative government reveals the details of the plan to break the existing deal with The Beer Store.
3. 2024 Implementation: Over 4,000 convenience stores across Ontario begin selling alcohol on September 5, 2024.

Critics Call it a ‘$1-Billion Booze Boondoggle’

Not everyone is thrilled with the new policy. Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie has been vocal in her opposition, referring to the plan as a “$1-billion booze boondoggle.” Crombie argues that the early termination of the “master framework agreement” with The Beer Store, which was set to expire in 2025, will end up costing taxpayers $225 million. She warns that this could be just the tip of the iceberg in terms of costs.

Finance Minister Defends the Move

In response to criticism, Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy has defended the plan, emphasizing that it provides more choices for consumers while supporting local producers. According to Bethlenfalvy, the new policy will boost the local economy by making it easier for Ontario breweries, wineries, and distilleries to get their products to market.

A Strategic Election Move?

While Ford has not officially announced a snap election, rumors are swirling that the premier may be considering one as early as next spring. With public opinion polls currently in his favor, Ford could capitalize on his ability to deliver on key promises, like the liberalization of alcohol sales, to secure another term.

A Look at the Potential Election Timing

Should Ford decide to call an early election, it would likely be in the spring of 2025. The next scheduled provincial election is set for June 2026, but Ford’s team may want to strike while the iron is hot, especially if federal politics come into play.

Why Timing Matters

One of the key reasons Ford may be eyeing an early election is the possibility of a federal Conservative victory. Ontario voters historically prefer different parties in power federally and provincially, and a win by Pierre Poilievre could complicate things for Ford if he waits until 2026.

The RCMP Investigation

Ford’s government is also facing scrutiny from an ongoing RCMP investigation into a controversial Greenbelt land swap deal. The outcome of this investigation could have serious political implications, potentially shaking up the landscape in Ontario politics. Ford may seek to avoid any fallout from the investigation by calling an early election before any charges or findings are made public.

What Does This Mean for Ontarians?

For the average Ontarian, the new alcohol sales policy is a win for convenience. Whether it’s grabbing a six-pack with groceries or picking up a bottle of wine at the local convenience store, the change allows for more flexibility in everyday life.

Supporting Local Producers

One of the major selling points of the new policy is its potential to benefit Ontario’s alcohol producers. By making it easier to get their products into more stores, the government hopes to support local breweries, wineries, and distilleries.

Questions Surrounding the Policy

As with any major policy shift, there are questions that remain:

• Will the new system hurt or help small, independent alcohol retailers?
• How will the LCBO maintain its relevance in a more open market?
• What will be the long-term economic impact of this policy?

Doug Ford’s decision to liberalize alcohol sales in Ontario is a significant political and economic move. With this promise now fulfilled, Ford has something substantial to take to voters should he decide to call a snap election. Whether this policy will pay off politically remains to be seen, but it certainly marks a key moment in his leadership.

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