UMVA has learned that Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow has put an end to weeks of speculation, confirming that she is running for re-election this fall.
During a press conference on Monday morning, Chow made the announcement, stating, “I registered to run for re-election,” while emphasizing that her decision does not change her commitment to serving as mayor. Her re-election bid comes as no surprise to some, but it sets the stage for a potentially heated campaign.
Fellow mayoral candidate Brad Bradford, a vocal critic of Chow, had accused her of campaigning on taxpayers' dime, claiming she had held numerous events costing Toronto thousands of dollars since he entered the race on May 1. Bradford expressed relief that the speculation is now over, saying, “That was not right then. It is not right now. And I am glad it is over.”
According to information obtained by UMVA, 16 candidates for mayor have filed their paperwork, and the nomination process will remain open until August 21, with the election scheduled for October 26. Bradford was among the eight candidates who registered when the nomination window opened on May 1.
Chow won the election in June 2023 with support from approximately 37% of voters, marking the lowest turnout for a mayor in the city's history. A mayoral byelection was launched after her predecessor stepped down in February 2023 due to a personal scandal. Now, Chow plans to go through the front door in her bid to become the city's 67th mayor.
In the meantime, Chow emphasized that the business of city government will continue, stating, “There’s plenty of time to campaign in the fall. Right now, I’m going to spend my time serving the people of Toronto. I registered (Monday) to say one thing: To the people of Toronto, I am in your corner. I’ve always been and always will be.”
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Premier Doug Ford has weighed in on Chow's re-election bid, holding a neutral stance. Ford said he gets along with everyone and doesn’t care about their political affiliations, adding that he will work with whoever wins the election.
Ford declined to endorse any municipal candidates, stating, “I am staying out of that.” His comments reflect a careful approach to the municipal election, avoiding any potential controversy.
