Full Breakdown
Andrea Horwath’s Defeat Marks End of First Female Mayoral Tenure in Hamilton
By Drooid · · How we work
In this breakdown
01
Core Election Outcome
In the 2026 Hamilton mayoral race, incumbent Andrea Horwath finished third, securing roughly 14.5 % of the vote. City councillor Rob Cooper placed second with about 31.9 %, while challenger Keanin Loomis won the mayoralty with roughly 41.8 % of the unofficial tally.
02
Background & Context
Horwath spent nearly three decades in municipal and provincial politics, first as a city councillor, then as a Member of Provincial Parliament, before becoming Hamilton’s first woman mayor in 2022. Her single-term mayoralty was marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, a major cyber-attack on municipal systems, and the integration of a large cohort of newly elected councillors.
03
Official Statements & Responses
Following the results, Horwath addressed reporters at city hall, thanking voters and offering assistance to the incoming administration. She noted that “the winds of change have blown across Ontario,” referring to the influx of new officials in Hamilton and other Ontario cities. Horwath expressed pride in the city’s progress, citing investments secured and collaborations with provincial and federal partners. She also voiced concern for her staff, acknowledging that political turnover often leads to job losses for municipal employees. When asked about future political plans, Horwath said she was “unsure” but added, “never say never,” and indicated she would take a break to rest.
04
Data & Statistics
- Andrea Horwath: ~14.5 % of vote (third place)
- Rob Cooper: ~31.9 % (second place)
- Keanin Loomis: ~41.8 % (winner)
The election results reflect a broader shift toward more conservative representation on Hamilton City Council, a trend echoed in recent mayoral contests in Niagara Falls, Fort Erie and Port Colborne.
05
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's been absolutely the privilege of a lifetime to represent the people of this city, first as a city councillor, then as an MPP and, of course, as the first woman mayor of the city,” — Andrea Horwath, outgoing hamilton mayor
- “The winds of change have blown across Ontario," Horwath said, referring to a number of new people in elected positions.” — Andrea Horwath, outgoing hamilton mayor