Premier Ford stops short of full endorsement but says Chow has his support
Ford said he will continue supporting Chow and pointed to more than $9 billion in provincial funding for Toronto.
- On Wednesday, Ontario Premier Doug Ford offered his clearest backing yet for Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow's re-election bid, praising their "phenomenal" relationship and urging voters to "read between the lines."
- This public backing marks a significant shift from the 2023 mayoral race, when Ford warned that electing Chow would be an "unmitigated disaster." The two have since developed strong working rapport despite past disagreements.
- Much of their collaboration centers on the "New Deal for Toronto," featuring the province's takeover of the Gardiner Expressway and Don Valley Parkway. The agreement includes $353 million for Toronto to maintain the highways until fall 2027.
- Tensions remain regarding the province's mandate to "fight gridlock" by removing bike lanes on Bloor Street and Yonge Street. Ford continues the plan while Chow opposes it, citing safety and congestion reduction goals.
- Toronto voters will head to the polls on Monday, Oct. 26, to decide the mayoral race. Chow faces a crowded field of about 50 candidates, including Brad Bradford and Chris Alexander.
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Doug Ford praises Olivia Chow, hints at support in mayoral race
What to know Ontario Premier Doug Ford appeared to signal support for Olivia Chow at a Wednesday morning press conference. Ford praised his relationship with Chow and said she is “doing an incredible job.” When asked about his position in the municipal election, Ford told reporters to “read between the lines.” Ford did not explicitly endorse Chow, after previously saying he did not want to get involved in the race. Ontario Premier Doug Ford has…
ANALYSIS | Doug Ford looms large in the race to become Toronto's next mayor
While Doug Ford has not endorsed a candidate to be Toronto’s next mayor, how the most prominent candidates are positioning themselves when it comes to Ford could shift not only votes but the crucial funding relationship between the province and city, some insiders say.
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