Olivia Chow re-elected mayor of Toronto, staving off challenger Brad Bradford

Patrick White Jeff GrayQueen's Park Reporter Laura StoneQueen's Park Reporter Published YesterdayUpdated 1 hour ago Open this photo in gallery: Toronto mayor-elect Olivia Chow on stage with supporters at her camp's election night headquarters in Toronto on Monday. Nathan Denette/The Canadian Press Comments Save for laterPlease log in to bookmark this story. Log InCreate an account Olivia Chow, the long-time NDP stalwart who campaigned on capping transit fares and expanding a school meal program, was re-elected as mayor of Toronto on Monday, staving off a stiff challenge from east-end councillor Brad Bradford. Her victory stands as an endorsement of a conciliatory leadership style that managed to charm the likes of Premier Doug Ford, who once declared that a Chow mayoralty would be an “unmitigated disaster” for the city. Three years into her term, the conservative Premier couldn’t help but gush about his relationship with Ms. Chow, stopping just short of a full-throated endorsement. That unlikely support helped her rebuff the Bradford campaign’s withering critiques of her time in office, which focused mainly on crime and the rising cost of living. According to unofficial results provided , Ms. Chow had 54 per cent of the vote, compared with Mr. Bradford’s 41 per cent, as of late Monday evening with almost all votes counted. Chow addressed cheering supporters at the Great Hall in the city’s west end and thanked Mr. Bradford for his spirited run. “I know we share a love for Toronto and a belief in its future,” she said. “We can disagree on how we get there, or what it looks like, but I do not doubt we both want what is best for our city.” She was joined on stage by friends, family and a range of union leaders, including the incoming head of the Toronto Police Association. Her victory speech focused on healing the differences that emerged during a bruising campaign. “Whatever your background, whatever you believe, whoever you love, wherever you live, I will listen to you,” she said. “I will stand up for you.” Chow's re-election pitch rested largely on her track record, and she will be expected to make good on new promises, including capping transit fares at 10 rides a week and building more affordable rental housing. The Canadian Press Speaking in a ballroom at the Fairmont Royal York hotel in downtown Toronto, Mr. Bradford told supporters he spoke with Ms. Chow and congratulated her on her re-election, and that her win is indisputable. “I want her to succeed.