Front Burner Is Doug Ford in trouble?
May 5, 2026
Robert Benzie, Queen's Park bureau chief at the Toronto Star, offers sharp inside reporting on Ontario politics. He walks through Doug Ford’s plunging polls and the backlash over the $28.9M jet. Short takes cover FOI changes, private phone controversies, school and post-secondary shifts, and whether opposition forces can exploit the moment.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Gravy Plane Hit Because It Was Off Brand
- The $28.9 million Bombardier jet purchase punched through because it was off-brand for Ford.
- Benzie explains Ford built an everyman image (economy travel, Walmart suits) so buying a luxury jet contradicted that persona and damaged trust.
Jet Bought Then Sold Within 48 Hours
- The jet story moved fast: The Star broke it April 17 and Ford announced selling it back within 48 hours.
- Benzie recounts Ford's quick reversal, phone calls to the premier's public cell and his claim of listening to people.
FOI Changes Spark Transparency Backlash
- Changes to Ontario's Freedom of Information law cost political capital because they appear to reduce transparency.
- Benzie notes the law shields premier, ministers and aides' correspondence, removing the juiciest 5% of records and creating suspicion.