Toronto mayoral race shifts as Chris Alexander withdraws and Brad Bradford gains endorsements

The Toronto mayoral race has seen significant shifts as candidate Chris Alexander announced his withdrawal from the contest just weeks before election day. Alexander, a former Conservative Member of Parliament and cabinet minister, stated that his path to success was no longer clear. His departure occurs shortly before the start of advance voting and leaves the upcoming debate at Toronto Metropolitan University to be contested only by incumbent Olivia Chow and Councillor Brad Bradford.

Meanwhile, Brad Bradford has strengthened his campaign by securing endorsements from three additional Liberal MPs: Vince Gasparro, Leslie Church, and Ali Ehsassi. These three join four other Liberal MPs—Jennifer McKelvie, Judy Sgro, James Maloney, and Yvan Baker—who have signaled support for Bradford. Bradford has also received backing from former Conservative MP Scott Aitchison and City Councillor James Pasternak.