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The 2026 Toronto Mayoral Debate: What’s at Stake

Toronto is at a turning point. As residents grapple with rising costs, worsening congestion, housing challenges, and growing pressure on city finances, the decisions made in this election will shape the region's economic future for years to come. Hear directly from Toronto's mayoral candidates as they outline their vision for building a more competitive, affordable, and opportunity-rich city.
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Debate Partner:

Nathan Phillips Square, with the Toronto Sign prominently featured.

Isabel Bader Theatre, 93 Charles St. W, Toronto, ON

In Person

Toronto's next mayor will inherit one of the most consequential moments in the city's history. Rising costs, slowing productivity, worsening congestion, housing affordability, and increasing fiscal pressures are reshaping Toronto's competitiveness and quality of life. The choices made over the next four years will influence whether Toronto remains a city where businesses invest, talent thrives, and residents can build prosperous lives. 

Hosted by the Toronto Region Board of Trade and The Toronto Star, the 2026 Mayoral Debate brings together Toronto's leading mayoral candidates for a substantive discussion on the economic issues that matter most to businesses, workers, and residents. 

This non-partisan debate will move beyond campaign slogans to examine the long-term decisions needed to strengthen Toronto's economy, improve competitiveness, and create the conditions for sustainable growth. Candidates will share their vision for addressing the city's biggest challenges while responding to questions from business leaders and the broader community. 

Whether you're a business leader, investor, entrepreneur, policymaker, or engaged resident, this debate offers an opportunity to hear directly from those seeking to lead Canada's largest city.

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Discussions will focus on:

  • Growing Toronto's Economy: How candidates plan to improve productivity, attract investment, create jobs, and strengthen Toronto's long-term economic competitiveness.  
  • Housing and Land Use: Building enough housing while ensuring Toronto remains a place where businesses can invest, grow, and attract talent.  
  • Congestion and Mobility: Addressing gridlock, improving transportation, and reducing the economic costs of congestion across the Toronto region.  
  • Fiscal Sustainability: Ensuring the city can deliver reliable services and infrastructure while maintaining a sustainable financial future.  
  • Affordability and Quality of Life: Creating the conditions for residents and businesses to succeed while strengthening Toronto's position as one of North America's leading cities.  

Attend if you're...

  • A business executive seeking insight into how municipal leadership will shape Toronto's economic competitiveness and business environment.  
  • An entrepreneur, investor, developer, or employer interested in the policies affecting growth, investment, housing, infrastructure, and talent.  
  • A government, policy, or civic leader working to strengthen Toronto's long-term prosperity.  
  • A resident who wants to hear directly from Toronto's mayoral candidates on the issues shaping the city's future.