Mayor Race Sees Notable Departures, Few Ward Names Confirmed Yet
With Ward 19 Councillor Brad Bradford emerging as the strongest declared contender for mayor, several notable potential candidates have recently decided not to run.
Anda Bailão (former councillor), Marco Mendicino (former federal minister), John Tory (former mayor), Rod Phillips (former provincial minister), Josh Matlow (councillor), Ben Mulroney, and Michael Ford (councillor) are among those who have declined to enter the race.
Anthony Furey remains a possible candidate. Bradford’s councillor seat will now be open, creating additional movement at the ward level.
Very few other candidates have formally declared their intent to run or re-run for councillor. However, teacher Lyall Sanders has announced that he will run for mayor.
Wards expected to draw increased attention include Ward 19, Ward 20 – Scarborough Southwest, Ward 25 – Scarborough Rouge Park, and Ward 15 – Don Valley West. Observers should also watch Ward 4 – Parkdale–High Park, Ward 12 – Toronto–St. Paul’s (currently represented by Josh Matlow), and Ward 23 – Scarborough North, where the TTC Chair seat adds further significance.
