The budget was the first under new premier Kathy Dunderdale and was delivered five months before the provincial election. The $7.3 billion dollar budget increased spending, but despite a budget surplus it would add to the province's net debt causing widespread anger and mistrust amongst the voting class .
In the lead-up to the provincial election, premier Kathy Dunderdale presented her first budget, which increased government spending to $7.3 billion. Despite a surplus, this move would worsen the province's debt situation, leading to widespread discontent and mistrust among voters who were eager to cast their ballots.