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Ontario Premier Doug Ford Signals Support for Olivia Chow Without Formal Endorsement
By Drooid · · How we work
Ford’s Comments on the Toronto Mayoral Race
At a news conference on Wednesday, Ontario Premier Doug Ford said he “did everything but officially endorse” Olivia Chow’s bid for Toronto mayor. When asked about his stance, Ford emphasized his close relationship with the incumbent mayor, stating, “The mayor and I have a phenomenal relationship, phenomenal.” He added that he would continue supporting the mayor, implying backing for Chow without a formal endorsement.
Background of Ford-Chow Relations
Ford and Chow have a history of both conflict and cooperation. During the 2023 mayoral campaign, Ford warned that a Chow victory would be an “unmitigated disaster.” Their disagreements have included the province’s takeover of Billy Bishop Airport and plans to remove Toronto bike lanes. Despite those disputes, the two have collaborated on several initiatives in recent years, and Ford has repeatedly described their working relationship as positive.
Official Statements & Responses
During the same press event, Ford was joined by Mayor Olivia Chow and several provincial ministers to announce an investment partnership with Sanofi, a global biopharmaceutical firm, aimed at expanding vaccine manufacturing in Ontario and Canada. The announcement underscored the administration’s focus on public-health infrastructure while subtly reinforcing the political alliance between Ford and Chow. No formal endorsement was issued, and Ford’s remarks left the exact level of support open to interpretation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The mayor and I have a phenomenal relationship, phenomenal,” — Ontario Premier Doug Ford
Potential Impact on the Election
Ford’s near-endorsement may influence moderate voters who view his backing as a signal of confidence in Chow’s leadership. With a crowded field of roughly 50 candidates—including Brad Bradford and Chris Alexander—the subtle endorsement could shape campaign dynamics, especially given Ford’s prominence in provincial politics. However, the lack of an explicit endorsement leaves room for other candidates to contest the narrative and for voters to assess Chow on her own merits.