Former Toronto councillor Mike Layton not running for mayor
Former Toronto city councillor Mike Layton says he will not be running for mayor, opting instead to spend more time with his family and focus on environmental causes.
Layton formally announce he will not be on the ballot in the upcoming byelection in a lengthy Twitter thread posted on Thursday morning.
“I’ve decided not to run for mayor for the same reasons I chose not to seek re-election,” Layton wrote. “First, I want to commit myself to work that allows me to be a more present father.”
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“I want to support my partner Brett and spend more time with my daughters Phoebe and Chloe. They are only young once, and these are the years they need me the most.”
The 42-year-old said he also intends to focus his attention on tackling climate change, an issue he says is the “most urgent crisis we face in Toronto and around the world” and “one of the greatest challenges of our time.”
News from me. ????Torontonians want to build a city they can be proud of, a Toronto that offers a promising future for themselves and their families.
In a city as wealthy as ours, we have a choice. We can choose to address the widening inequality and take care of each other. pic.twitter.com/72PbNSXHcP
— Mike Layton (@m_layton) March 2, 2023
Layton was considered by some to be the progressive who had the best opportunity to replace former mayor John Tory. He acknowledged many had been urging him to consider a run, and says he took those appeals to heart.
The former University-Rosedale councillor announced he would not be running for re-election ahead of the municipal election last fall, leaving city hall after 12 years in office. He was a strong progressive voice on council and work on various issues including Net Zero by 2040, the Home Energy Loan Program, the Bio Diversity Strategy, and affordable housing.
“The Mayor’s office plays an important role in our democracy, and this byelection is a big opportunity for the city,” said Layton. “I encourage everyone to pay close attention and vote for a candidate who is genuinely committed to making life better for people.”
Others reportedly considering a run for mayor include councillor Brad Bradford, former councillor Ana Bailao, and former police chief Mark Saunders. Two candidates have confirmed their intention to run — former councillor Rob Davis and progressive urbanist Gil Penalosa.
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Tory announced he would be stepping down last month after admitting to having an affair with a former member of his staff.
The byelection to replace Tory is set for June 26. The date is subject to city council declaring the mayor’s office vacant at the next council meeting later this month.
If approved, nominations for candidates will open on April 3.
