Over the last two weeks I’ve had some incredible conversations with Torontonians about their enthusiasm for my campaign, my ideas and what I stand for.  

I’ve also had conversations with people who, despite their alignment with my platform, are understandably afraid of our city’s future in the hands of Brad Bradford. He’s been a terrible councillor and will be a worse mayor.

While I’ve tried to run my campaign with authenticity and optimism, it’s clear that no amount of vision and love for Toronto is powerful enough to fight the fear and cognitive dissonance he’s currently capitalizing on in the polls.

Through careful consideration about where it’s best to direct my efforts in this last week before election day, I’ve made the difficult decision to withdraw from this race and I encourage everyone who was planning to or considering voting for me to direct that vote to Olivia Chow in the name of our city’s safety, social support and future success.

I didn’t enter this race lightly, and am proud of the work I’ve done to rally Torontonians yearning for something different that will activate the whole city – making it more compassionate and ambitious, and addressing the serious needs of our independent business owners, creatives and makers. I am so grateful to my supporters and those who have already voted for me; your willingness to think for yourself and what’s important to you inspires me more than you’ll ever know. And to my team who’s been with me since the start – you’re the best, and I will remain loyal to you in every endeavour you embark on.

I will continue to champion Toronto through my editorial work, and look forward to expanding the concept of Building Brand Toronto with our city’s thought leaders and advocates. For those who’ve joined me on this journey and understand that a rising tide lifts all ships, Iet’s continue with the confidence that we can craft the the kind of city we want to call home. 

And when you head to the polls on Monday, bring your kids. Talk to them about civics. Teach them about their own responsibility in living in a city. Show them that you’re invested in Toronto’s prosperity, and in their future as well.