With just under a month left before Toronto’s municipal election, the latest poll reveals that incumbent Olivia Chow is leading the race among decided voters. According to the survey conducted by Canada Pulse Insights for CityNews, Chow holds 51% of the vote, with Brad Bradford trailing at 34% and Chris Alexander at 9%. The gap narrows among all voters, with Chow at 38%, Bradford at 25%, and Alexander at 7%.
Interestingly, while 55% of respondents expressed a desire for change in Toronto, 45% believe that Chow deserves to be re-elected. Among those supporting Chow, 90% feel she should have a second term, while only 6% of Bradford supporters think the same.
Pollster John Wright notes that despite Chow’s lead, voters considering alternative candidates like Bradford or Alexander aren’t likely to switch their support. The undecided voters, comprising 20% of those surveyed, are more inclined towards a change, particularly middle-aged, female, downtown residents who are less likely to be married and white.
Wright also highlights the impact of Chris Alexander on the race, diverting crucial support that could have boosted Bradford. The municipal election is set for Oct. 26, with early voting from Oct. 6 to Oct. 11. As the campaign unfolds, the dynamics of voter preferences and turnout remain unpredictable.
