In the upcoming Montreal mayoral election, a diverse group of eight candidates is vying for the chance to lead the city. Five candidates are affiliated with political parties such as Ensemble Montréal, Projet Montréal, Transition Montréal, Action Montréal, and Futur Montréal, while the remaining three are running independently.
Recent polls indicate that the election could primarily be a contest between Ensemble and Projet, with a significant portion of voters still undecided. As the candidates make their case to the public, CityNews had the opportunity to interview the top five mayoral hopefuls.
Soraya Martinez Ferrada of Ensemble Montréal has been a frontrunner in the polls, emphasizing the need for change after Valérie Plante’s two terms. She has outlined key priorities including affordable housing, downtown business growth, homelessness initiatives, city cleanliness, construction site management, and transportation improvements.
Luc Rabouin, representing Projet Montréal, touts his experience in city council and as a borough mayor as assets for the mayoral role. His platform focuses on addressing homelessness, enhancing social housing, promoting tramway projects, streamlining construction planning, and boosting climate resilience.
Transition Montréal’s Craig Sauvé advocates for increased affordable housing, tax reforms, electoral changes, and a dedicated nightlife office to enhance the city’s vibrancy. Action Montréal’s Gilbert Thibodeau aims to bring accountability to city hall by reassessing housing bylaws, expanding the metro line, and supporting vulnerable populations.
Futur Montréal’s Jean-François Kacou aims to differentiate his centrist approach by proposing changes to existing housing regulations, transportation networks, and renewable energy initiatives.
The election will take place on Nov. 2, with polling stations open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. As Montrealers consider their choices, the issue of affordable housing continues to loom large in the city.
Keyphrase: Montreal mayoral election
