Private career college operators warn the province’s OSAP funding freeze is threatening their survival, leaving thousands of students in limbo and putting Ontario’s pipeline of health-care workers at risk.

"This endorsement from Lyn means a lot to me," Fairclough said. "I feel quite honoured that I've got now four previous leaders of the party and, of course, a previous premier that has the confidence that I will be able to lead our party and lead us into a better future in Ontario."

As the province expands jail capacity and presses Ottawa for tougher laws, experts question whether the government's approach will make communities safer, or deepen an already strained justice system.

Marando's plan includes a $5,000 investment account for eligible children, eliminating provincial corporate income taxes for small businesses during their first five years, restoring free tuition for students from low-income households and giving municipalities a permanent share of HST revenues.

The province has referred the matter to the Ontario Provincial Police and notified Ontario's auditor general. But for now the government has stopped OSAP payments associated with all private postsecondary institutions while the audit continues.

Alexander said he has had no conversations with incumbent Mayor Olivia Chow, Coun. Brad Bradford or their campaigns about taking on a role in a future administration.