500,000 reasons

Do not collect $200

ABOVE THE FOLD

As the Premiers trek to the capital to discuss how to deal with DONALD TRUMP’s tariff threat, DOUG FORD is warning that 500,000 jobs are hanging in the balance.

“This is serious, it’s unprecedented, and let’s hope it doesn’t cost 500,000 jobs,” the Premier told reporters Tuesday morning.

While those numbers are based on internal government projections, Ford said he’ll have a better sense of the impact after Trump takes office next week.

“It all depends on the amount of tariffs” and “what sectors they’re affecting,” Ford said, adding that he believes Trump will “slow roll” the tariffs — but that they’re still coming.

The running theory in Queen’s Park circles is that the volatility surrounding Trump’s presidency could give Ford the rationale he needs to justify an early election.

That tracks: Indeed, Ford has hinted that he may need a new mandate from the people if Trump follows through on the tariffs. That may include a stimulus package for Ontario’s economy or supports f…