Ontario municipal elections face candidate shortage concerns

Mikaela Ariar, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 4, 2026

(Photo Courtesy: iStock)

CANADA – Researchers and civic organizations are watching whether Ontario can reverse a long-term shortage in involvement in local politics as nominations for municipal elections ending on August 21.

Voters in Ontario’s 444 municipalities will select mayors, councilors, reeves, and school board trustees on October 26. However, political scientists cautioned that many races could stop by acclamation, with only one contender running, leaving voters without an option.

According to data from the previous municipal elections, the number of candidates fell from more than 8,000 in 2010 to about 6,000 in 2022. Voter turnout also dropped from around 44% to 36.3%.

The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) introduced election primer workshops in 2022 to inspire more people to run for office. More than 6,000 people have joined, including sessions aimed at women, racialized communities, and Indigenous people.

Researchers also identified public abuse, political incivility, low compensation and growing responsibilities as key barriers discouraging possible contenders from seeking office.

Despite concerns, AMO President Robin Jones and researchers stated it is still too early to assess the 2026 candidate turnout, noting nominations stay open until August 21 and a few local races have already drawn more candidates than in past election cycles.