Doug Ford distances himself from PC party research on Bonnie Crombie

Ontario Premier Doug Ford stated he does not condone his Progressive Conservative party sending an individual to a Jamaican resort to conduct opposition research on Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie. While Ford expressed disagreement with the tactic, noting he would not personally engage in such actions, he remarked that “things happen.”

Reports from the Trillium and Policorner indicate the Progressive Conservatives spent nearly $3,000 in 2023 on two resorts in Jamaica for this purpose. The research reportedly took place while Crombie was vacationing following her win in the Liberal leadership race.

Opposition members have characterized the move as spying and stalking. Liberal MPP Stephanie Smyth described the incident as a “disturbing privacy violation” that raises concerns regarding the political culture of the PC party and its potential to intimidate women in politics.