In the ongoing race for the mayoralty of Toronto, the political landscape has shifted with Chris Alexander's recent withdrawal from the contest. New polling data reveals that Olivia Chow’s lead over Brad Bradford has significantly diminished, now standing at a narrow four-point margin.

Recent polling conducted by Forum Research Inc. following a debate on October 3 indicates that Chow maintains a lead among decided and leaning voters, capturing 46 percent of support. Bradford closely trails with 42 percent. The poll also highlights that a notable 12 percent of respondents express their intention to vote for a candidate other than Chow or Bradford, suggesting there are still undecided voters who could sway the outcome.

The survey was executed on October 6, utilizing telephone interviews with 1,604 randomly selected residents of Toronto who are over the age of 18. It carries a margin of error of 2.45 percent, with results being reliable 19 times out of 20. This data marks a distinct change from Forum Research's previous poll conducted on September 25, which showed Chow enjoying an 11-point advantage over Bradford—46 percent to 35 percent.

The sudden exit of Alexander from the race occurred just a mere 30 minutes before advance voting was set to begin in the city. Analysts suggest that his departure has contributed to the tightening of the race between the two frontrunners, Chow and Bradford.

This development indicates a dynamic shift in voter sentiment and highlights the competitive nature of the mayoral race as it approaches its conclusion. With the election drawing near, candidates are likely to intensify their campaigning efforts in hopes of capturing the undecided electorate and consolidating their support among their bases.