Brad Bradford Narrows Lead of Mayor Olivia Chow

Incumbent Mayor Olivia Chow holds a narrowing lead over Councillor Brad Bradford in the race for Toronto's mayoralty. A Liaison Strategies poll conducted between September 19 and 20 shows Chow leading with 47 percent support compared to Bradford's 40 percent, a decrease from her 11-point lead in early September. A separate Mainstreet Research poll describes the contest as too close to call, placing Chow at 38.8 percent and Bradford at 31.4 percent.

Regional data indicates a geographic split in support. Chow remains strong downtown with narrow leads in North York and Scarborough, while Bradford leads in Etobicoke. A significant age divide has also emerged, with Bradford leading among voters aged 18 to 34. Voters identified the cost of living and housing affordability as their primary concerns, followed by crime, safety, and congestion.

The race has been influenced by the first mayoral debate hosted by the Daily Bread Food Bank and comments from Ontario Premier Doug Ford. Ford appeared to endorse Chow on September 17, though his office clarified on September 18 that he would not endorse any candidate.