Doug Ford has officially been sworn in as Ontario’s 26th Premier. The Progressive Conservatives assumed the reins of the province and unveiled the leaner cabinet, with no ministers from Niagara, Halton or Hamilton.
The ceremony today officially gave the Progressive Conservatives power for the first time since 2003.
Following the official indoor ceremony, Premier Ford held a public celebration at Queen’s Park. A crowd gathered in scorching conditions to witness Ford’s speech as he proclaimed himself a Premier for the people.
Lieutenant Governor Elizabeth Dowdeswell introducing Doug Ford as Ontario’s new leader.
The oaths were read and signed by each of the 20 new cabinet ministers.
Ford making good on a promise to slim down the cabinet from the 30 ministerial positions within the last Liberal government.
At an outdoor ceremony before cheering fans and the newly sworn in and affirmed government, the Premier addressed the people, and encouraged unity within the province.
Over a thousand guests were invited to the outdoor portion and just behind these gates members of Ford nation came out to support Doug Ford, who was in a suit on a day that felt like 36 degrees downtown greeted every supporter.
After taking a selfie with the last one, he said it’s time to get to work. An energy that was mirrored by his new cabinet.
Ford takes office with a strong majority having won 76 seats. He told us today that the legislature will resume on July 9th and that the first act of his government will be to cancel Ontario’s cap and trade program.