Olivia Chow recaptures double-digit lead in Toronto mayoral race, new poll shows

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow has solidified her lead in the upcoming municipal election, with a new poll by Liaison Strategies showing her ahead by a significant margin. Chow commands 49% of decided voters, while her main challenger, Coun. Brad Bradford, trails at 38%. The election is scheduled for October 26, with nominations closing soon.

David Valantin, principal at Liaison Strategies, noted that the ballot has shifted back towards a clearer advantage for Chow. While Bradford has a path to victory, particularly with strong support in Etobicoke, his voter base is described as narrower. Bradford leads among men and in Etobicoke, but Chow holds a stronger lead among women and in downtown, North York, and Scarborough.

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The ballot has moved back toward a clearer Chow advantage.

Further bolstering Chow's position, the poll suggests a marginal improvement in how Torontonians perceive the city's current direction. 48% of respondents believe the city is heading in the right direction, compared to 45% who feel it is moving negatively. This indicates a slight shift in public sentiment as the election approaches.

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Bradford’s challenge is that his vote is real, but narrower.