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Michael Ford confirms he won’t run in Toronto’s mayoral election

Click to play video: 'Tory bowing out of Toronto election opens up several possibilities'
Tory bowing out of Toronto election opens up several possibilities
RELATED: Tory bowing out of Toronto election opens up several possibilities – Mar 4, 2026

A former provincial cabinet minister, councillor, trustee and nephew of Premier Doug Ford has announced he won’t run in October’s mayoral election.

Michael Ford, who served most recently in provincial parliament, released a statement Thursday confirming he wouldn’t seek to succeed Olivia Chow as Toronto’s next mayor.

“After some very long and thoughtful consideration with my close family I have decided not to seek my candidacy for Mayor of Toronto in the 2026 municipal election,” Ford wrote in a statement sent to Global News.

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“I love Toronto and have always had a passion for public service. I will remain very active in the city that I love and lend my support in whichever way makes Toronto a more safe, affordable and world class city.”

Coun. Brad Bradford, who ran in 2023, has declared his intention to run for the mayor’s office, while Chow, the incumbent, has yet to indicate either way whether she’ll run again.

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Former mayor John Tory dropped out of the race last month, confirming he wouldn’t seek the office he resigned from three years ago.

The election will be held at the end of October.

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