If his just-released Christmas message video is any indication, Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s 2025 priorities include ending the infuriating traffic congestion that has long plagued the GTA and other parts of the province.
Dressed as Santa Claus right down to the long white beard in front of a Christmas tree and fire inside his Queen’s Park office, the just over two-minute video was posted to the premier’s social media accounts on Monday and shows some of his ministers writing letters asking for their Christmas wishes.
Ford begins by performing a tailor-made version of the famous holiday poem, A Visit from St. Nicholas, as he opens with the first few lines before adapting it.
“‘Twas the night before Christmas and our province stood tall, with visions of progress uniting us all,” Ford says.
“As we look ahead to another New Year, here’s what we’re working on to bring you good cheer.”
Then Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria appears in his Queen’s Park office writing a letter to Santa asking for solutions to traffic gridlock.
“Dear Santa, Ontarians are stuck in traffic, losing time each day with crowded roads and endless jams, it shouldn’t be this way” Sarkaria says. “So this year, I’m wishing big! Let gridlock disappear and bring joy to everyone this coming new year.”
He is followed by Energy Minister Stephen Lecce, Economic Development Minister Vic Fedeli, Labour Minister David Piccini and Health Minister Sylvia Jones as each deliver their list of Christmas wishes to a mailbox that says North Pole Mail/Letters to Santa, outside the premier’s office.
Among their collective wishes are the expansion of nuclear power in the province, investments in EV manufacturing and mining battery resources, more training and programs for skilled trade workers, and an expansion to health-care services.
The video ends with a final message from Ford just before Santa appears in silhouette in the sky in a sled driven by reindeer.
“As Christmas arrives with hope shining bright, we’re forging ahead with unwavering might,” says Ford. “I’m grateful to the people of Ontario for your trust and your cheer. Together, we’ll build the future that’s stronger each year. Merry Christmas to all with the new year in sight. Merry Christmas, Ontario, and to all a good night. Ho! Ho! Ho!”