First gay Ontario Premier wins majority in election

The first female and first openly gay Premier of Ontario has won a majority in the province elections.

Liberal Party leader Kathleen Wynne took the victory, leaving the Conservatives and NDP behind.

In doing so, Wynne became the first openly gay head of government in the Commonwealth.

The former cabinet minister was in January appointed as Canada’s first openly-gay provincial premier. She also became first female leader of the most populous Canadian province.

“Whoa, we did this!” the 61-year-old grandmother said on the announcement of her victory.

“This is a beautiful, inclusive place we live in,” she said, continuing “anyone can be the premier” in such an open-minded province.

“Thank you, thank you, thank you, Ontario. We are going to build Ontario up for everyone in this province — everyone. You voted for jobs, you voted for growth.”

With all ridings having reported, the Liberals were elected or led in 59 constituences compared to 27 for the Progressive Conservatives and 21 for the NDP.

In terms of popular vote, the Liberals took 38.6%, with 31.3% for the PCs and 23.8% for the NDP.

Wynne is to call the Legislature on 2 July.

• Dec 01 2023

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