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2023 Toronto Mayoral Debate

Event logo Our Future, Our Vote: A Toronto for All
A woman looks over the Toronto city skyline.

On Wednesday, May 31, Toronto Metropolitan University, United Way Greater Toronto and the Toronto Star are co-hosting leading mayoral candidates for a by-election debate on the critical social and economic challenges facing our city. This debate will give Torontonians the opportunity to hear from candidates on their approaches to tackling the city’s most pressing issues, helping voters make an informed decision on election day.

Candidates will share their vision of a Toronto for all and address questions from the audience, as well as respond to other candidates’ positions.

Key details

Candidates participating

Mayoral candidates who received a minimum level of 5% support as determined by voting intention in an average of polls conducted between May 1st and May 18th were invited to participate in the debate. 

Leading candidates Ana Bailão, Brad Bradford, Olivia Chow, Mitzie Hunter, Josh Matlow and Mark Saunders have committed to attending.

We want to hear from you!

Three students smiling standing infront of a poster "Why I vote"

If you are a student, let us know what your concerns are as a student so we can share those with the candidates at the mayoral debate this month. Rate your priority issues and enter your email for a chance to attend the upcoming mayoral debate.

Or join the conversation by using our hashtag #OurFutureOurVoteTO and tell us how Toronto’s next mayor can build a better Toronto for all.

"We are thrilled to be welcoming mayoral candidates, students and the community to our campus. The debate will provide a space for Torontonians to share their vision for the city and help in determining the next leader of Canada’s largest city. Voting with confidence means being informed on the issues and candidate platforms that impact our day-to-day lives. By engaging the electorate and providing an opportunity for informed public dialogue, this partnership between the university, the United Way and The Toronto Star is helping to support voting accessibility, informed public policy debate and a more vibrant and thriving democracy in our city."

Mohamed Lachemi, President, Toronto Metropolitan University

"Students can actively engage in shaping the future of Toronto in this municipal election, the outcome of which has direct daily impact on those living in the city. From transit to safety and security, and from housing to healthcare, in this critical and close election students have the power to shape their future by voting."

Ali Areesh Somani, VP of Politics and Governance, Student Association; Year IV Undergraduate Student Politics and Governance, Toronto Metropolitan University
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