Make-or-break moments

Debate bingo, anyone?

ABOVE THE FOLD

It may be Valentine’s Day, but the mood on the campaign trail is far from lovey-dovey. In fact, it’s been a whirlwind 24 hours filled with make-or-break moments for the political parties, and there’s plenty more fireworks to come as the leaders step into the ring for back-to-back debates.

Before we dig in: Who’s up for a game of debate bingo?

At 1 p.m.: DOUG FORD, MARIT STILES, BONNIE CROMBIE and MIKE SCHREINER square off at the Northern-themed debate put on by the Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities at Canadore College in North Bay. If you were hoping to snag an in-person ticket, too bad, it’s sold out. But you can catch the livestream.

This debate is a little different than the broadcast consortium debate that goes down on Monday evening in that the questions will come from civic-minded folks and local officials in Northern pockets of the province. Monday’s affair will see journalists control the Q-and-A.

Both are hotly-anticipated events that could show voters how well (or not) the leaders handle tough questions about important matters and key policies. And then there’s the potential for gaffes, like Ford’s infamous binder.

You can play along with this debate bingo card and track the candidates’ favourite phrases and issues (boozy drinks optional).

ONTARIO LEADERS’ DEBATE BINGO