Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek has lost her bid for re-election, according to the latest results from the municipal election.
After a hard-fought campaign, Gondek was defeated by her main opponent, current Ward 3 Councillor Sean Chu. With all polls reporting, Chu received 51.4% of the vote, while Gondek received 43.6%.
In a statement released after the results were announced, Gondek thanked her supporters and congratulated Chu on his victory.
“I am incredibly proud of the campaign we ran and the positive vision we put forward for Calgary,” Gondek said. “While I am disappointed with the outcome, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as mayor for the past four years and to have made a positive impact on this city.”
Gondek, who was first elected as mayor in 2017, ran on a platform of economic recovery, affordable housing, and addressing climate change. She also faced criticism for her handling of the city’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and for her support of the controversial Green Line LRT project.
Meanwhile, Chu, who has served as a city councillor since 2010, focused his campaign on issues such as public safety, fiscal responsibility, and reducing taxes. He also promised to bring a more business-friendly approach to the mayor’s office.
In his victory speech, Chu thanked his supporters and promised to work towards making Calgary a better place for all residents.
“I am humbled by the trust and confidence that Calgarians have placed in me,” Chu said. “I am committed to working tirelessly to address the challenges facing our city and to make Calgary a place where everyone can thrive.”
The municipal election also saw a record-breaking voter turnout, with over 50% of eligible voters casting their ballots. This was a significant increase from the 2017 election, where only 39% of eligible voters participated.
The new mayor and city council will be sworn in on October 25, and will face the task of leading Calgary through the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and its economic recovery.
As the city moves forward with a new leader, it remains to be seen how the priorities and vision of the new mayor and council will shape the future of Calgary.
