Here’s the latest I can share based on recent coverage.
Direct answer
- Ontario Premier Doug Ford faced swift backlash over a reported $28.9–$29 million private jet purchase, and the government indicated it would sell the jet promptly after the criticism.
Key details and context
- The purchase was publicly disclosed in mid-April 2026, triggering strong opposition from opposition parties and advocacy groups who argued the expense was inappropriate given economic pressures on families. The criticism centered on using taxpayer money for a luxury government asset rather than addressing essential services. Ontario’s government subsequently announced plans to sell the aircraft as quickly as possible to address the backlash. These developments were reported by CBC, Global News, CTV/CTV News, Yahoo Canada, and other outlets, reflecting a broad media focus on the controversy and the backtrack.[1][2][3][4]
What’s happened since
- The prevailing narrative in late April 2026 indicates a rapid reversal: the government signaled it would seek to offload the jet rather than keeping it in service, citing public backlash and political pressure as drivers. Critics continued to frame the move as a response to scrutiny, while supporters argued it was a correction in policy after public outcry. Multiple outlets documented the back-and-forth and ongoing political commentary around the decision.[2][4][7]
Illustrative example
- Front-page coverage and multiple videos highlighted the quick U-turn, illustrating how fast political momentum shifted once the public reaction hit a tipping point. For example, news segments and discussions from CBC, Global News, and CTV captured the sequence from announcement to reversal within a few days.[3][7][2]
Would you like a short, cited timeline of the key dates and public statements, or a quick side-by-side of the main political actors’ positions? I can compile that with direct quotes and sources.