Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow faces a more competitive re-election battle than many had anticipated, with new polling showing councillor Brad Bradford closing the gap and a majority of residents believing the city is headed in the wrong direction.
According to the survey, Chow currently leads among decided voters with 43.6 per cent support, while Bradford has gained significant momentum and now stands at 37.8 per cent. Nearly one in five voters indicated they would support another candidate. However, when respondents were asked to choose between only Chow and Bradford, Bradford held a narrow lead with 51.9 per cent support compared with 48.1 per cent for the incumbent mayor.
Bradford’s rise marks a dramatic improvement from earlier this year when his support was considerably lower and former mayor John Tory was still considered a possible candidate. Since Tory ruled out a return to politics, Bradford’s standing has strengthened substantially.
The poll also highlights growing dissatisfaction among Toronto residents. More than six in ten respondents said the city is on the wrong track, while less than a quarter believe Toronto is moving in the right direction. Public opinion toward Mayor Chow appears divided, with a significant number of voters saying they would definitely not support her, while opposition to Bradford remains considerably lower.
Chow’s overall job approval ratings also reflect the challenge she faces. Slightly more than 40 per cent of respondents approved of her performance as mayor, while a majority expressed disapproval.
Transportation and traffic congestion emerged as the top issue influencing voters, followed closely by affordability and the rising cost of living. Crime and public safety ranked third among voter concerns. Jobs, economic growth and services for seniors were also identified as important issues, though by smaller percentages.
The survey further revealed public skepticism over the city’s decision to resell FIFA World Cup tickets to corporate sponsors in an effort to recover costs. Nearly half of respondents opposed the move, while just over one-third supported it.
Toronto residents also expressed reservations about plans supported by Premier Doug Ford to expand Billy Bishop Airport. More than half of those surveyed opposed the proposal, while fewer than four in ten supported the expansion. The issue remains under review, with the federal government currently conducting consultations on the airport’s future.
With 23 candidates officially registered for the mayoral race, the latest poll suggests that Toronto’s upcoming election could be far more competitive than previously expected, as concerns over affordability, congestion and the city’s overall direction continue to shape voter sentiment.