On the evening of February 27, excitement turned to disappointment as supporters of the Ontario Liberal Party (OLP) candidate Trevor Stewart watched the 2025 Ontario Election results unfold. The Glengarry-Prescott-Russell candidate entered the viewing party to warm applause and cheers shortly after the CBC confirmed the Progressive Conservative (PC) incumbent Stéphane Sarrazin as the winner for the riding.
“These aren’t the results we wanted, but I remain confident we can do better. Politics is a lot like hockey; when you have a rough game, a rough tournament, or even a rough season, you don’t blame it on the refs. You don’t blame it on your skates. You don’t blame it on the opposing team’s parents. You get back on the ice. That’s exactly what we are going to do here,” Stewart explained to the crowd gathered at Hammond Golf and Country Club.
“There is too much on the line to give up. Hope is always possible, and when the light shines and the sun rises, look to the East.”
Stewart emphasized that, although the results were not what supporters wanted, he was proud to have a supportive and dedicated team by his side during the campaign. Stewart also showcased his appreciation for friends and family.
“You have sacrificed everything. I will never know how to repay you, but this campaign was a step in that direction because you taught me to give back to our community and to fight for our community, and God knows the results tonight will not stop me from doing that,” Stewart said to his parents.
As for the next steps, Stewart explained, “Well, take down signs! We have a lot of them out there, and cleanup will be the priority. We gave them Hell, and I am really proud of the team that I have around me. We went to every single debate, and we showed up for democracy.”
“I’m humbled by the support that I’ve gotten from my own community. It’s been a fun ride, to say the least. It’s been quite an experience,” he continued.
Stewart iterated that his love for community is still a driving force in his political life: “I’m not going anywhere, that’s for sure. I am committed to my work as a councillor and will always work to get the best results for my community.”
In closing the night, Stewart thanked everyone who made the effort to go out and vote, no matter the party.
“Even if they didn’t vote for me, they participated in democracy and the electoral system. That’s what counts. Regarding the large number of people that didn’t vote; listen, I think all political parties here have to ask themselves the question: ‘how do we get people back into the fold and engaged to vote?’”
Photos by Philip Oddi:
