A significant number of Hamilton’s city council members, along with the city’s mayor, have expressed their intentions to seek re-election in the upcoming municipal elections later this year. When questioned by CBC Hamilton this month about their plans for the election scheduled for Oct. 26, 11 present councillors and Mayor Andrea Horwath confirmed their candidacy. Two members, Ward 13 Coun. Alex Wilson and Ward 6 Coun. Tom Jackson, did not provide a definitive response before the article’s publication.
Coun. Ted McMeekin of Ward 15 mentioned that he is taking his time to decide whether he will run again, stating that he will likely make a decision close to the deadline on Aug. 21. McMeekin, who has a long political history, shared that he is consulting with his family and considering the feedback he has received from his constituents.
The nomination period for candidates to officially submit their candidacy runs from May 1 to Aug. 21, with the list of certified candidates set to be released on Aug. 24. Rob Cooper, the newest council member elected in Ward 8, expressed his intention to run again but is contemplating whether to vie for his council seat or the mayoral position.
Cooper highlighted his concerns regarding the mayor’s influence on budgetary matters in the strong mayor system, feeling excluded during the water budget process in late 2025. As the councillors begin their involvement in the tax-supported budget discussions, Cooper emphasized that his experience during the water budget deliberations would influence his decision-making process.
Regarding the mayoral race, runner-up Keanin Loomis and former mayor Bob Bratina were contacted about their potential candidacy for the upcoming election. Loomis indicated that he would provide more details in the coming weeks, while Bratina opted out of running, citing personal reasons related to his wife’s health and expressing dissatisfaction with the current administration.
Many incumbent councillors looking to run again emphasized their commitment to ongoing projects and initiatives. They mentioned receiving positive feedback from constituents who support their re-election bids and expressed dedication to serving their communities. Priorities for the council members include addressing taxation concerns, enhancing local infrastructure, and ensuring effective governance for the benefit of Hamilton residents.
