Politics
CANADA: Toronto elects first-ever Chinese-Canadian mayor
Olivia Chow, a Chinese-Canadian, made history by being elected as the mayor of Toronto, Canada’s largest city. In her victory speech, Chow expressed her commitment to
Olivia Chow, a Chinese-Canadian, made history by becoming the first woman of Chinese descent to be elected as the mayor of Toronto, Canada’s largest city. In her victory speech, Chow promised to prioritize the needs of renters, advocate for social causes, and reduce the extensive powers of her office.
Meanwhile, Chow secured 37.2% of the votes, according to preliminary results, surpassing her closest competitor, former deputy mayor Ana Bailao. Her campaign highlighted her experience as a former member of parliament and Toronto city councilor, as well as the connections established by her late husband, Jack Layton, a prominent figure in progressive politics. At 66 years old, Chow becomes the first woman to serve as mayor since Barbara Hall in 1997. Having immigrated from Hong Kong at the age of 13, she holds a fine art degree from the University of Guelph.
Additionally, Chow succeeds John Tory, a conservative-leaning mayor who won his third election in October. Tory stepped down in February after admitting to having an affair with a staff member. Chow’s mayoralty comes at a crucial time when Toronto is grappling with skyrocketing housing costs and an increase in violent incidents on public transportation, prompting calls for greater police intervention. In response, she has committed to constructing 25,000 rent-controlled homes within eight years to address the surging rental prices.