Former Toronto mayor John Tory has confirmed he will not run in the upcoming mayoral election, bringing months of speculation about a potential political comeback to an end.
Tory made the announcement Tuesday, saying that while serving as mayor was “the honour of a lifetime,” he ultimately decided against returning to politics because he could not put his family through the renewed scrutiny and personal attacks that would likely accompany a campaign.
The 71-year-old resigned from office in February 2023, only months after winning a third term as mayor, after admitting to having an inappropriate relationship with a staff member at city hall.
In a lengthy public statement, Tory said his decision was guided by a desire to protect both the integrity of the mayor’s office and the well-being of those closest to him.
He said that although many residents, business leaders and community members had encouraged him to consider another run, the final decision came after discussions with his family.
Tory said his relatives believed that entering another mayoral campaign would likely revive intense public scrutiny over the personal scandal that led to his resignation.
“I feel I cannot put my family and the people I care about through the inevitable attacks on me and my personal life,” Tory said.
During an interview on Newstalk 1010, he acknowledged that advertisements referencing his past personal issues had already begun circulating even though he had not formally entered the race, reinforcing concerns within his family.
Tory added that politics can be “a tough business — at times brutal,” and said his family’s perspective ultimately helped him reach his decision.
His announcement comes ahead of Toronto’s municipal election scheduled for Oct. 26. The race is expected to draw significant attention as the city grapples with economic pressures, public safety concerns, housing challenges and infrastructure issues.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow has not yet confirmed whether she will seek re-election. Meanwhile, city councillor Brad Bradford has already declared his intention to run for mayor after an unsuccessful bid in the 2023 byelection.
Bradford praised Tory’s decision, saying the personal sacrifices required in public office are often underestimated.
Tory also said he will not endorse any candidate at this stage and wants to see how the field develops. He emphasized that Toronto needs a leader capable of working effectively with the provincial government, including Premier Doug Ford, while addressing major issues facing the city.
Among the priorities he identified for Toronto’s next mayor were improving public safety, ensuring reliable transit, strengthening the city’s economy, and addressing concerns about homelessness, open drug use and park encampments.
With Tory officially out of the race, attention is now expected to shift toward emerging candidates and whether Chow will seek another term as Toronto prepares for what could become a highly competitive municipal election.