2026 Mississauga election: How the mayor’s race could be one of Ontario’s most watched

As Mississauga residents prepare to cast their votes in the upcoming mayoral election, the race between incumbent Carolyn Parrish and her predecessor Bonnie Crombie has become a focal point. With only six weeks left until the polls open, two other candidates, Dipika Damerla and Alvin Tedjo, have also entered the fray, bringing the total number of contenders to 14.

According to recent polling, Parrish and Crombie are neck and neck in the two-way battle, each holding 26 percent of the vote. Damerla follows at 13 percent, while Tedjo trails at 9 percent. A significant portion of voters, 26 percent, remain undecided, offering room for shifts in support. Parrish, who previously served as a councillor and an MP, aims to secure another full term as mayor.

She emphasizes her achievements, including a housing task force that resulted in 30 recommendations, some of which were adopted by the province. Her initiatives include fare-free transit, community centre access for seniors, and the construction of 1,800 affordable housing units. On the other hand, Crombie, who previously served as the Liberal Party leader, emphasizes her economic development accomplishments, such as attracting investment and fostering a strong business environment.

She also highlights her experience and leadership qualities. However, the campaign has been marked by occasional sharp exchanges between the two frontrunners, particularly through social media. Parrish maintains a positive stance, focusing on her future-oriented approach, while Crombie emphasizes her desire to bring direction and leadership to the city.

The election has also seen the emergence of two other candidates, Dipika Damerla and Alvin Tedjo. Damerla, a former Liberal MPP, argues that she would bring a fresh perspective and positive momentum to the table, citing her success in establishing business associations and green spaces during her time as a councillor. Tedjo, the current Ward 2 councillor, stresses the need for change and questions the validity of recent polling results.

He emphasizes his focus on affordability measures, such as fare-free transit for seniors and children, as well as water billing discounts for low-income earners. As the election approaches, voters will have to weigh the various perspectives and priorities presented by the candidates to determine their preferred choice for the mayor of Mississauga.