Polls close in three Ontario byelections, at least one tight race expected
Written by The Canadian Press on September 3, 2026
TORONTO — Polls have closed tonight in three Ontario provincial byelections, with at least one race set to be tight.
Candidates say long-standing provincial concerns such as health care, education and affordability came up often as they knocked on doors, but the trade war with the United States is also a worry for voters.
Premier Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservatives are hoping to hold on to two seats while the New Democrats wish to hold onto the third.
Candidates expect a close race in Hamilton-Stoney Creek after conservative Neil Lumsden retired in August.
Scarborough Southwest will likely be a battle between the New Democrats and the Liberals while the Progressive Conservatives are expected to hold on to York-Simcoe following the resignation of Caroline Mulroney.
Candidates say the usual concerns on health care, education and affordability were hot topics at the doors, but so too was the escalating trade war with the United States.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 3, 2026.
Liam Casey, The Canadian Press