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"Bradford Gains Key Support in Toronto Mayoral Race"

6.10.2026 2,73 B 5 Mins Read

The Toronto mayoral race is intensifying as candidate Brad Bradford has recently garnered the endorsement of three additional Liberal Members of Parliament (MPs). Over the weekend, Vince Gasparro, Leslie Church, and Ali Ehsassi expressed their support for Bradford, joining four other Liberal MPs who have already backed his campaign for mayor.

Gasparro, the MP for Eglinton-Lawrence, spoke highly of Bradford, noting their acquaintance since 2018 when he served as Principal Secretary to former Mayor John Tory. He emphasized Bradford's commitment to key urban issues such as economic growth, public safety, and affordability. “I saw firsthand his commitment to growing our economy, enhancing our public safety, and improving affordability,” Gasparro stated.

Leslie Church, who represents Toronto-St. Paul's, also endorsed Bradford, highlighting his consistent presence in midtown Toronto. She expressed her desire for a great city for the next generation, with a focus on affordable housing, public transit, and accessible childcare. “As a parent, I want a great city for all our kids when they grow up, with affordable housing, transit, and child care,” Church remarked. “I know Brad wants the same things, and that’s why I’m proud to support him to be our next mayor.”

Willowdale MP Ali Ehsassi joined Bradford in a separate campaign video released on social media on Monday afternoon. He lauded Bradford as “a serious, hardworking leader with a track record of getting things done for the people of this city.” Ehsassi highlighted Bradford's vision and energy, asserting that he has the capability to help Toronto realize its full potential.

With the latest endorsements, Bradford’s list of supporters now includes seven Liberal MPs. Apart from Gasparro, Church, and Ehsassi, the other MPs who have signaled their support are Ajax MP and former Toronto Deputy Mayor Jennifer McKelvie, Humber River-Black Creek MP Judy Sgro, Etobicoke-Lakeshore MP James Maloney, and Etobicoke Centre MP Yvan Baker. His backing also extends to former Conservative MP Scott Aitchison, Ontario Liberal MPP Stephanie Smyth, and York Centre City Councillor James Pasternak.

Expressing his gratitude for the support, Bradford commented, “Leslie, Vince, and Ali each spend their days fighting for Toronto in Ottawa, and they know what this city needs from its next mayor: a partner who shows up, gets the basics right, and gets things built.” He conveyed a strong belief that Toronto is at a pivotal moment, stating, “Toronto is stuck, and the people of this city know it. We’re on the cusp of change. Change is within our grasp. To change the city, we need to change the mayor.”

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