**Ontario Government Faces Criticism Over Social Policies**

Ontario's provincial government, led by the Progressive Conservatives, is facing scrutiny for its social policies that some argue align more closely with left-leaning agendas. Critics point to the influence of deputy ministers, who are political appointees and play a significant role in shaping government operations and policies.

Historically, deputy ministers have been described as experienced bureaucrats who often outlast elected officials. Richard Vivone, a former journalist and ministerial assistant, noted in 1999 that these officials can sometimes ignore political directives that threaten their operations. He stated, "In large government departments with hundreds of programs, it is doubtful whether a politician can grasp even the rudiments of the inner workings of a bureaucracy."

In recent years, the Ontario government has allowed the establishment of a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) medical school, despite its authority over post-secondary education. Additionally, provincial prisons have permitted transgender male inmates to self-identify into women’s facilities. Critics argue that these decisions reflect a broader trend of prioritizing identity-based initiatives over traditional conservative values.

The Ontario government has also committed resources to anti-racism initiatives, a legacy of the previous Liberal administration under Kathleen Wynne. The Ontario Anti-Racism Act of 2017 continues to influence current policies, tying the Progressive Conservatives to social agendas that some constituents did not support.

Furthermore, a significant portion of Ontario's deputy ministers have shown progressive leanings. Out of 30 deputy ministers, seven have publicly indicated their support for progressive causes. This includes officials like Erin Hannah, deputy minister of correctional services, and Deborah Richardson, deputy minister of health, who has previously held a position focused on anti-racism.

The presence of these progressive-minded officials raises concerns among critics about the direction of government policy. They argue that the alignment with DEI principles and identity-based funding initiatives undermines the conservative platform that many voters expected when they elected the current government in 2018.

As the province approaches the 2025 elections, the ongoing influence of these policies and the bureaucratic structure may play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape in Ontario.