John Tory confirmed he is throwing his hat in the ring in the contest to become Toronto’s next mayor.
In a radio interview that aired Sunday evening, Tory said he plans to enter the race Monday, ending months of speculation about his intentions.
A lawyer, former leader of the Ontario Progressive Conservative Party and a popular radio host, Tory has often been touted as a possible alternative to Mayor Rob Ford.
Tory last ran for mayor in 2003, losing narrowly to David Miller.
The announcement adds Tory’s name to a growing list of challengers looking to unseat Ford, who is running for re-election.
Among possible big-name contenders, Ford and former city councilor David Soknacki have so far filed nomination papers to run.
Former TTC Chair Karen Stintz said months ago that she plans to run for mayor. Earlier this week, she formally stepped down as TTC Chair in order to focus on her campaign. She confirmed in a tweet Sunday that she plans to officially launch her campaign Monday morning.
NDP MP Olivia Chow has also been touted as a possible Ford challenger. Various polls have shown that she might have a strong chance to unseat Ford if she were to enter the race. Chow has said she’s considering a run, but has not officially entered the race.
Candidates have until September to officially file papers to run for mayor. The election will be held Oct. 27.
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