Ontario Premier Doug Ford faces scrutiny over media access and public spending

Ontario Premier Doug Ford is facing scrutiny over his approach to media relations and public spending. During a press conference in Mississauga regarding a $401 million housing development charge reduction for the city, Ford made a remark stating, “Thank God we don’t have the media. No questions, no answers, we’re good to go.” The announcement was streamed via YouTube without press attendance, drawing criticism from opposition parties regarding public accountability.

Separately, Ford defended the $25,000 cost of a “Lake Ontario now and always” sign unveiled in Winona. The sign was a response to a U.S. executive order by President Donald Trump that renamed the body of water “Lake America” during a trade dispute with Canada. Ford argued the expenditure provided significant value, claiming it generated “$25 million of free advertising” through international news coverage.