Ontario’s Ford government is facing mounting pressure to address rising living costs, with opposition parties and advocacy groups criticizing the lack of new affordability measures in the province’s latest budget.
The backlash comes weeks after the 2026 spending plan was tabled, as many Ontarians continue to grapple with higher prices driven by global uncertainty, including U.S. tariffs and the ongoing Iran conflict.
Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy defended the government’s approach, pointing to previously introduced measures such as the permanent gas tax cut and the removal of tolls on parts of Highway 407 East. He also highlighted a temporary HST cut for new homebuyers as part of broader affordability efforts.
However, opposition leaders argue the budget fails to address immediate concerns such as rising rent, grocery costs and unemployment. NDP Leader Marit Stiles said the plan does little to ease the financial burden on residents, while Liberal parliamentary leader John Fraser called for more targeted relief measures.
Housing affordability has emerged as a key point of criticism. Tenant advocates are calling for stronger rent control policies and protections against “renovictions,” warning that over 30 per cent of Ontario households rely on rental housing and need greater security.
Food banks across the province are also reporting increased demand, with organizations urging the government to expand support for low-income residents and adjust social assistance rules to reflect rising costs.
Analysts say the government may be holding back additional relief measures for a future fiscal update, but warn that delaying action could carry political risks if voters feel their concerns are not being addressed.
