With Ontarians headed to the polls on Feb. 27, nearly a year and a half earlier than originally scheduled, The Vision sent a series of questions to some of the candidates.
Progressive Conservative candidate Stéphane Sarrazin (Incumbent)
Q: What are the most pressing issues/concerns facing residents across Glengarry-Prescott-Russell, and how does your party plan on addressing these issues/concerns?
A: The main concerns of the residents of Glengarry-Prescott-Russell include the economy, tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, the cost of living, and the need to invest in infrastructure. The Ontario government is placing greater emphasis than ever on infrastructure, with announcements goof school projects and multi-million-dollar investments in several communities in Glengarry-Prescott-Russell. Additionally, we are taking concrete actions to minimize the impact of Trump’s tariffs and support our economic sector.
Q: For a long time, people in rural areas have felt ignored. What are your party’s plans to make sure these residents have a voice?
A: As a former mayor and former warden of the United Counties of Prescott and Russell, I take pride to represent the residents of Glengarry-Prescott-Russell at Queen’s Park. This is clearly reflected in the investments we have secured, including nearly 100 million dollars for infrastructure in our riding recently.
Q: With the chance of a trade war with the U.S., is your party best equipped to stand up for Ontarians? How so, and what is your plan?
A : We are best equipped with Doug Ford to fight the tariffs. It is clear that Doug Ford has taken on the role of leader for Canada up until now. I hear that at the door all the time in every part of the riding.
Q: The riding is predominantly Francophone. What is your party’s plan to ensure Francophone residents receive the support and resources they need in their official language?
A: As Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Francophone Affairs, Caroline Mulroney, the Francophonie is a key part of my work. Francophone businesses help us open new markets—an effective way to counter tariffs. They are a driving force for Ontario. Our government remains fully committed to creating a business-friendly environment where French can thrive. Francophone businesses are key allies in diversifying our economy.
It was Doug Ford’s government that first modernized the French Language Services Act. It was Doug Ford’s government that entrusted the governance of two universities to Francophones. It was Doug Ford’s government that tripled funding for the Francophone Community Grants Program, introduced the first Franco-Ontarian economic strategy, and officially recognized the Franco-Ontarian flag as a provincial symbol. While others talk and do promises, a Doug Ford government takes action for the Francophonie.
Q: How does your party plan on addressing the housing shortage? Affordability? Ontarians are struggling to put food on the table and are struggling to even rent or buy a home.
A: This is our goal. We are helping municipalities by investing millions in infrastructure. This is how we plan to build 1.5 million homes by 2031. All of this aims to make it easier for developers to build housing. It will work a bit like the law of supply and demand: once we have built more homes, demand will decrease, and prices should stabilize and drop, allowing young families the ability to afford a home.
Q: Why should Ontarians vote for you?
A: Ontarians should vote for me because I am familiar with the issues facing Glengarry-Prescott-Russell and have worked closely with local organizations since my time as mayor and warden, I am the best candidate to make a real difference in the riding. My record proves it.
