Project Ontario Critiques Ford’s Spending, Pushes Policy Reforms

A group of conservative voters has grown increasingly vocal in criticizing Premier Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservative government, arguing that the administration has strayed from its core principles. Project Ontario, founded by Matt Spoke, initially set out to propose new policy ideas but has now become a platform for conservatives concerned about the direction of the province.

Origins of Project Ontario

Project Ontario began with a simple goal: to publish recommendations on key areas such as healthcare, education, housing, and the economy. Spoke, a supporter of Ford who voted for him in both 2018 and 2022, said the group hoped their ideas would be welcomed by the premier and his team.

“Originally, the idea was just to share what we think the government should be doing on important files,” Spoke said. “We wanted to provide constructive suggestions to improve outcomes in the province.”

Instead of receiving constructive feedback, the group encountered dismissal from the premier himself, who reportedly referred to the group as “yahoos” and accused them of promoting “radical” ideas. Spoke said criticism from government insiders has grown harsher as Project Ontario’s commentary has become more public.

Concerns Over Spending and Policy Direction

At the heart of Project Ontario’s concerns is what they see as the government’s excessive spending and reliance on symbolic gestures rather than substantive reform.

“By any standard, if you compare this government to the last two, we’re spending more per capita and more as a percentage of GDP than our predecessors,” Spoke said. “We came into office criticizing their spending habits, so it feels a little disingenuous now.”

The group contends that Ford’s government favors “performance politics”—photo opportunities, press conferences, and public handouts—over long-term policy measures like tax reduction, deregulation, or structural reforms. Examples cited include handing out oversized cheques at local businesses, attending staged events, and other high-visibility actions designed to appeal to media attention.

Notable stunts have drawn widespread attention. Over the summer, Ford emptied a bottle of Crown Royal whisky at a news conference to protest a plant closure and later ate an ice cream bar while responding to questions about homelessness, speed cameras, and First Nations consultations.

Expanding Influence and Public Engagement

While initially focused on publishing ideas, Project Ontario has expanded its activities to organize meet-ups with like-minded conservatives. The goal is to influence the party’s policy direction and to raise awareness among voters who feel the Progressive Conservative government has deviated from its ideological roots.

Spoke emphasizes that the group does not seek to topple Ford as premier. “We are not in this to challenge his leadership,” he said. “We want to see better outcomes in the province. If any of the proposals we’re discussing start getting serious attention, that would be a win for us.”

Despite internal criticism, Ford’s government continues to enjoy strong public support. Summer polls have consistently placed the Progressive Conservatives at around 50 per cent, surpassing the 43 per cent that secured Ford a third consecutive majority in February.

Vision for a Policy-Focused Government

Project Ontario argues that meaningful change in government requires returning to a focus on long-term policy solutions rather than short-term visibility projects. Spoke highlighted areas such as healthcare reform, housing affordability, and economic policies that could deliver a lasting impact for Ontarians.

“We would take it as a success if the government began seriously considering reforms in areas that affect everyday people,” Spoke said. “After eight years, there’s only so much one can expect, but a shift in focus toward substantive policy would be a positive step.”

The group hopes that by engaging with other voters and creating a platform for policy discussion, it can encourage the Progressive Conservative government to balance public appeal with meaningful, sustainable governance.