New poll has Olivia Chow with a double-digit lead in Toronto mayoral race

A recent poll conducted by Liaison Strategies has revealed that incumbent Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow is leading the race for the city's mayoral election with a substantial double-digit lead over her opponent, Brad Bradford. The poll, which surveyed 1,000 residents by phone on September 4 and 5, shows that Chow has the support of 50% of decided and leaning voters, compared to Bradford's 39%.

Chris Alexander trails in third place with 10% of the vote. Chow has an approval rating of 51%, while 45% of respondents disapprove of her performance as mayor.

The poll also examined various aspects of the city, including property taxes, service priorities, and TTC usage since the pandemic. About a third of respondents believe that property taxes should be frozen or reduced, even if it means cutting back on some city services. When asked which services warrant an increase, affordable housing, homelessness services, public transit, and police, fire, and paramedic services were the top three concerns.

In terms of TTC usage, 40% of respondents reported riding the buses, streetcars, and subway lines as frequently as before the pandemic. However, 29% said they use it less often, primarily due to changes in their school or work routines. Factors that would encourage more ridership include more frequent and reliable service, and improved personal safety.