From the voluntary withdrawal of candidates Karen Stintz and David Soknacki to Rob Ford’s withdrawal and replacement with his brother Doug Ford, it’s safe to say this year’s election was one of Toronto’s most memorable to date.
Earlier polling placed John Tory well out in front of Doug Ford and Olivia Chow going into Monday’s election. When precincts began reporting, however, it became clear that the race was closer than expected.
In the end, Ford was not able to close the gap between himself and Tory. The official results show Tory held 40 per cent of the vote, Ford held 34 per cent and Chow held 23 per cent.
Doug Ford only officially began his campaign on Sept. 20 after a cancer diagnosis forced Rob Ford to withdraw. After declaring, Doug Ford quickly emerged as one of the top contenders.
Ford claims he raised over $300,000 through campaigning and contributed $500,000 from his own pocket. This is opposed to the $2.48 million donated to candidates John Tory and $1.76 million donated to Olivia Chow.
Before voting day, voters flocked to advanced polls in record numbers, and overall voter turnout for the municipal election was the highest seen in Toronto since amalgamation. 60 per cent of Torontonians voted in Monday’s election.
Prior to the election, Doug Ford held the Etobicoke North council seat. He was elected as Ward 2 councillor in 2010 when his brother, the previous seat holder, was elected mayor.
