Former Toronto Mayor John Tory says he hasn’t ruled out a return to City Hall, reigniting public debate about his political future. Speaking on Newstalk 1010 Friday, Tory addressed growing rumours that he may run again in the 2026 municipal election, stating that while no decision has been made, the possibility remains open.
“The election is 16 months away. I’ve got a lot to think about,” said Tory. “I’m just going on with my life, trying to help the city in the ways that I did before I was mayor and the way I have done after.”
Tory, who resigned in February 2023 following a scandal involving an affair with a staff member during the pandemic, had been serving his third term at the time. His departure led to a byelection that brought current Mayor Olivia Chow to office in June 2023.
Despite the controversy surrounding his exit, Tory maintains that his commitment to the city hasn’t wavered. “Bottom line is I love the city. I’m spending all of my time now helping out in different ways,” he said.
Reactions from Toronto residents have been mixed. On social media platforms like Reddit and X, some argue that it’s time for the 71-year-old to step aside and let new leadership take charge. “The man is 71 years old. Time to stay retired,” one Reddit user commented, while another criticized the recycling of familiar faces in Toronto politics, blaming past mayors for the city’s ongoing financial challenges.
Others, however, see Tory’s potential return as a stabilizing prospect. “Yes, good,” one supporter posted on X. “He wasn’t perfect, but didn’t need to go when he did in the first place.”
For now, Tory remains undecided. The next municipal election is set for October 26, 2026, and all eyes will be on whether the former mayor decides to make a political comeback—or leave city politics behind for good.