Doug Ford Clarifies Support for Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow

Ontario Premier Doug Ford sparked political controversy after signaling support for Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow during her re-election campaign. At a September 16 event for a Sanofi vaccine facility, Ford described his relationship with Chow as "phenomenal" and urged observers to "read between the lines" regarding his backing. This marked a sharp reversal from 2023, when Ford predicted Chow's election would be an "unmitigated disaster."

Following backlash and interpretations of a quasi-endorsement, Ford's office clarified on September 18 that the premier did not and will not formally endorse any candidate in the October 26 municipal vote. Mayoral candidate Brad Bradford criticized the exchange, claiming Ford had endorsed Chow and accusing the mayor of surrendering to provincial interests. Bradford pledged to conduct a line-by-line review of city finances to investigate tax increases if elected.

Despite the political friction, the city remains heavily dependent on provincial support. Toronto faces a projected $100-million deficit this year and requires approximately $481 million in provincial and federal funding for 2027 and 2028 to avoid deep service cuts or a nearly 10 per cent residential property tax increase. The next mayor must secure an extension of the "new deal" negotiated between Ford and Chow to maintain essential services.