Gap Narrows, But Ford Still Ahead In Latest Poll
Posted October 15, 2010 3:30 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
With just over a week to go before Torontonians decide who will take over the mayor’s chair, a new poll, conducted after Rocco Rossi dropped out of the race, shows Rob Ford leading with George Smitherman following closely behind.
The independent survey conducted by Forum Research shows Ford has the support of 44 per cent of decided voters, compared to Smitherman who has 38 per cent support. While Joe Pantalone gained some points with 16 per cent support, he still trails significantly.
The results suggest Smitherman has enjoyed a surge in support after Sarah Thomson and Rossi decided to bow out of the race.
The race would become much closer if Pantalone decided to jump ship. Smitherman would shoot up to 48 per cent and Ford to 49 per cent, the poll shows.
Smitherman received two endorsements Friday. Former mayor Art Eggleton and Coun. Adam Vaughan both threw their support behind the former deputy premier.
Scarborough appears to be Ford country. The penny-pinching candidate enjoys 53 per cent support there compared to 30 per cent for Smitherman.
Smitherman has made strong gains in North York with 42 per cent support, up from 20 per cent, and in Etobicoke-York with 39 per cent up from 14 per cent. The candidates are nearly tied in East York at 39 per cent for Smitherman and 38 per cent for Ford.
Seven hundred people were questioned for the survey conducted by phone on Oct. 14, 2010. Results are considered accurate within four per cent 19 times out of 20.
