With Ron Corsini

Few individuals have observed Hamilton’s political, economic, and civic evolution as closely as Ron Corsini. A respected business leader and longtime voice within the city’s development landscape, Corsini has witnessed Hamilton through periods of growth, uncertainty, ambition, and missed opportunity. In this edition of The Hamiltonian, we speak with him about the city’s current trajectory, the state of leadership and revitalization, and what he believes Hamilton must confront if it hopes to truly fulfill its long-promised potential as “the best place to raise a child and age successfully.”

Welcome to our chat with long time friend of The Hamiltonian, Ron Corsini. 

You have observed Hamilton through many political and economic cycles. What concerns you most about the city’s current direction?

What concerns me most is the on going crisis of homelessness, mental health, and addiction. The city is struggling to manage it effectively. Check out Jackson and James St. S. All 3 levels of government need to address this issue. We are in a mental health pandemic. For every dollar we pay in taxes, how much is going to police, paramedics, city staff, hospitals, and all other help, to address this issue.

The City of Hamilton’s vision statement remains: “To be the best place to raise a child and age successfully.” This statement has been in place for many years. How do you assess Hamilton’s performance against this vision? In your view, has the statement become more “pamphlet ware” than a meaningful aspirational roadmap, or do you believe the vision is genuinely taking hold within the city? Please explain.

It sounds like a slogan rather than a reality! Housing costs are crazy. WE need municipal planning now not in 10 years, provincial healthcare support, and federal housing investments.

Downtown revitalization has been discussed for decades. Why do you believe Hamilton continues to struggle in translating plans into meaningful transformation? Once again, another downtown study has been proposed as a pathway forward. Do we need additional studies, or does the lack of progress point to a broader failure to understand what is truly required to transform the core?

No more studies! We know what the problems are lets fix it! We lack political will to execute. We need to work together!

How do you believe gun violence and crime are impacting Hamilton’s business community? More broadly, how are these issues affecting everyday Hamiltonians?

The impact is severe. For businesses, rising crime and the perception of unsafety reduces foot traffic in the core. Public safety is the foundation of all economic success.

 If you were advising Hamilton’s next mayor, what is the first issue you would urge them to address immediately?

The mayor cannot do this alone! Bring everyone to the table. We need municipal bylaws enforced, provincial health and mental health funding unlocked.

We need a coordinated tri-government strategy. We need more visible presence of police on every corner. I remember when we had 2 officers walking the beat and checking all the doors. Where are they now?

 

Thank-you Ron for engaging with Hamiltonians on The Hamiltonian! 

Picture of the Moment

As seen at the Winona Fire Hall. The Hamiltonian wishes Captain Ed a Happy Retirement and thanks him for his service!

The Hamiltonian Public Engagement Index™

Click on Chart to Enlarge It

The Hamiltonian Public Engagement Index™ is an ongoing accountability and transparency initiative designed to track and document the responsiveness, accessibility, and willingness of elected officials to engage with The Hamiltonian and, by extension, the citizens of Hamilton who read The Hamiltonian.

Unlike short-term political commentary, this index is maintained over time and reflects consistent patterns of engagement — not isolated incidents . We believe it is important for Hamiltonians to know which public officials are willing to answer questions, participate in respectful dialogue, and engage with civic issues through  The Hamiltonian.

As part of our commitment to fairness, neutrality, and public accountability, all elected officials are treated equally and continue to receive ongoing opportunities to engage with Hamiltonians via The Hamiltonian through interviews, statements, clarifications, and requests for comment.  

The index will be updated and published periodically leading up to the  municipal election so that readers can observe long-term engagement patterns rather than momentary political positioning. 

The following is a link to a previous series entitled Star Wards, which, while not the sole determining factor, contributed to and informed The Hamiltonian Public Engagement Index™.

Before the Ballot - With Ward 10 Candidate Tanjoban Nijjar

Welcome to this instalment of Before the Ballot featuring Ward 10 Candidate Tanjoban Nijjar

What motivated you to run for council, and why do you believe now is the right time for new leadership in your ward?

My motivation to run for council comes from a deep-rooted belief in fostering a healthy and happy community. I believe we're only as strong as our most vulnerable. We can try to improve our surroundings as much as we want, but if we don't tackle the underlying issues holding this ward back, real change won't happen. I believe now is the right time for new leadership in Ward 10. This community needs fresh energy—someone willing to get hands-on and do the work required to create lasting solutions, not just temporary fixes. That's what I'm here to do.

Every ward has its own unique challenges. What do you believe are the top three issues facing residents in your ward today, and how would you address them?

Every ward has its challenges, but in Ward 10, the top three issues I hear about constantly are the GFL landfill odour, rising property taxes, and overdevelopment without proper consultation.

On the landfill, residents have been dealing with toxic odours for years—headaches, nausea, not even being able to open their windows. That's unacceptable. As councillor, I'd push aggressively for an expedited closure and hold GFL accountable. No more delays, no more excuses.

On property taxes, families and seniors are getting squeezed. The proposed increases are simply not sustainable. I'd bring my business background to the budget table and treat every dollar like it's coming out of my own pocket. We need to find efficiencies before we ask residents to pay more.

On development, growth is coming whether we like it or not, but it has to be smart growth. That means genuine community consultation before projects get approved—not after. Residents deserve a seat at the table, not a letter in the mail telling them it's already decided.

These aren't abstract issues to me. I live here, I work here, and I'm ready to fight for real solutions.

Municipal government often requires balancing competing interests and difficult budget decisions. How would you approach making tough decisions at City Hall?

This is where a lot of councillors get it wrong. They go in with their mind already made up, or they do whatever their donors or party tells them.

For me, when a tough decision comes to the table, I'm going back to a few simple principles.

First, I'm talking to residents. Not just the loudest voices—everyone. The seniors who've been here for forty years, the young family just moving in, the small business owner on the corner. I want to know how this decision actually lands on their doorstep.

Second, I'm asking the practical questions. What does this cost? Who does it help? Who does it hurt? Is there waste we can cut before we ask people for more money? Coming from running a business, I look at every dollar like it's my own. You have to.

And third, I'm thinking long-term. A lot of councillors make decisions based on what gets them through the next election. That's how we end up with band-aid solutions. I'd rather make the harder choice now if it means a better outcome five, ten years down the road.

At the end of the day, I'm not there to play politics. I'm there to serve the people of Ward 10. If a decision doesn't pass that test, I'm not supporting it.

What experience, skills, or perspective do you bring that distinguishes you from other candidates seeking the same council seat?

What sets me apart? I'm not a career politician. I'm a small business owner, working with Ward 10 residents every single day. So I understand budgets and rising costs firsthand. I'm also a certified nutritionist and fitness coach—I run free fitness programs and work with local religious institutions to help families get healthier. That keeps me connected to real people and real problems every single day. Additionally, being from the younger demographic means I've got the energy to knock on doors, return calls, and actually follow through. I want to connect with the people in my ward that feel no one hears them. Ward 10 doesn't need another politician. It needs someone who lives this life alongside you. That's me.

What is the best way for voters to contact you and/or learn more about you?

The best way for voters to contact me is by phone. I will do whatever it takes to make this ward a better place. Please do not hesitate to contact me at 647-969-5053.

Kind Regards,
Tanjoban Nijjar
For Ward 10 Councillor
6479695053

Thank-you Tanjoban for engaging with Hamiltonians in The Hamiltonian.

The Hamiltonian will continue to update the list of participants up to and until election day. To see participants thus far, click here.

Media Release: The Hamilton Hammers

HAMILTON, ON (May 21, 2026) – Oak View Group (OVG) & TD Coliseum, together with the New York Islanders, today announced the new name and brand identity of their American Hockey League team: Hamilton Hammers.

Rooted in Hamilton’s history as a resilient steel town, the team’s logo features crossed hammers symbolizing the strength, grit, and togetherness of the community, embodying both the city’s steelworking heritage and the spirit of the game. The design reflects Hamilton’s pride and determination, showcasing the unique character that defines the city, while bold, angular lettering evokes the spirit of Steel Town.

Subtle hockey puck details on the hammer knobs pay homage to the iconic puck in the New York Islanders logo, linking the sport’s identity with the craftsmanship of the tools and nodding to the franchise’s origins, including the fisherman logo era. The orange and blue colour palette is also drawn from the Islanders’ classic team colours, reinforcing the connection to the club’s history and evolution. The logo was created by the New York Islanders, while the broader brand identity was developed by Canadian creative agency Recess Creative.

Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath, alongside Kelly Cheeseman, President, New York Islanders; Matt Martin, Special Assistant to the General Manager, New York Islanders; Nick DeLuco, Senior Vice President and General Manager, TD Coliseum; Peter Luukko, Co-Chairman, OVG, Scott Howson, President & CEO, AHL; and Tom Pistore, President, OVG Canada attended this afternoon’s event to unveil the brand identity and usher in a new era of Hamilton hockey. Local community members and season ticket deposit holders were also present for the unveiling.

“The city of Hamilton can now unite as Hammers fans. We look forward to seeing the Hammers logo

Before the Ballot: The Candidates Guide-Digital Campaigning at the Local Level

Municipal campaigns have changed dramatically over the last decade, but one misconception continues to surface every election cycle: that social media alone can win a local race. In reality, digital campaigning works best when it supports—not replaces—the fundamentals of municipal politics.

In Hamilton, where elections are still heavily influenced by neighbourhood relationships and direct engagement, digital tools are most effective when they reinforce credibility, visibility, and consistency.

Start with a professional digital foundation. Every serious campaign should have:
– a clean website,
– active social media channels,
– and consistent branding across platforms.

The website does not need to be elaborate, but it should clearly communicate:
– who the candidate is,
– what they stand for,
– how to volunteer,
– how to donate,
– and how to contact the campaign.

If voters search for a candidate and find outdated or incomplete information, confidence drops immediately. If your links are dead, that also sends a bad message. 

Choose platforms strategically. Not every platform matters equally in municipal politics. Campaigns should focus their energy where local voters are actually active.

For many Hamilton campaigns:
– Facebook remains important for community visibility and local discussion,
– Instagram can reinforce image and presence,
– X may help with media and politically engaged audiences,
– while short-form video platforms can assist with broader awareness if handled carefully.

– The Hamiltonian, known as a tastemaker can shape contests. Leverage their invites. 

Consistency matters more than volume. Many campaigns post heavily for a week and then disappear for long stretches. That inconsistency weakens visibility and creates the impression of disorganization.

A steady, manageable rhythm is more effective:
– regular updates,
– community photos,
– issue-focused posts,
– and campaign activity.

Use digital to reinforce real-world activity. The strongest municipal campaigns use digital platforms to amplify what is already happening on the ground:
– canvassing,
– community events,
– endorsements,
– local meetings,
– and media coverage.

Social media works best when it reflects genuine activity rather than trying to substitute for it.

Keep messaging disciplined. Online platforms reward emotional reactions and rapid responses. Campaigns should resist the temptation to respond impulsively to every criticism or controversy, but should also be respectful of available forums. 

Digital messaging should remain:– measured,– consistent,– and aligned with the campaign’s broader tone.
One poorly considered post can distract from weeks of disciplined campaigning.

Visuals matter. Campaign images, graphics, and videos should appear professional and consistent without becoming overly polished or artificial.

Simple often works best:– clear candidate photos,– readable graphics,– short video clips,– and community-based imagery. Municipal voters generally respond better to authenticity than to highly produced political marketing.

Do not confuse engagement with support. Likes, shares, and comments can create a misleading sense of momentum. Digital enthusiasm does not always translate into votes. Some of the strongest municipal campaigns online have underperformed electorally, while quieter campaigns with strong ground operations have succeeded. Digital should inform strategy—not distort it.

Use email strategically. Email remains one of the most underused tools in municipal politics. Building an email list allows campaigns to:
– communicate directly with supporters,
– reinforce messaging,
– recruit volunteers,
– and mobilize turnout.

Unlike social platforms, email communication is not dependent on algorithms.

Monitor comments carefully. Campaign pages can quickly become environments where supporters or opponents escalate negativity. Candidates are often judged not only by what they post, but by what they tolerate in their comment sections.

Moderation policies should be:
– respectful,
– consistent,
– and clear.

Digital professionalism matters. Avoid overproduction and overbranding. Municipal voters are often skeptical of campaigns that appear overly manufactured or excessively political. Highly polished branding without corresponding community presence can create distance rather than connection. The strongest digital campaigns feel grounded in the city and connected to real local concerns.

Remember the purpose.
Digital campaigning is ultimately about reinforcement:
– reinforcing visibility,
– reinforcing credibility,
– and reinforcing voter familiarity.

It works best when connected to a disciplined campaign operation happening in the real world.

Final  notes In Hamilton municipal politics, digital campaigning can significantly strengthen a campaign—but only when used thoughtfully. Candidates who treat digital tools as part of a broader strategy tend to benefit from them. Those who mistake digital presence for campaign structure often struggle when voting day arrives. Technology can amplify a campaign. It cannot replace the work of building trust.

The Hamiltonian's Before the Ballot- The Candidates Guide series is designed to help those who want what is best for Hamilton, and who may need some advice on the do's and don'ts of campaigning. Want to see the entire series so far? Click here.  We encourage you to hone your skills and optimize your approach to campaigning. Please continue to spread the word about The Hamiltonian. 

Are Hamiltonians Being Served?

As Hamilton approaches another municipal election cycle, it is easy to focus solely on personalities — the mayor, councillors, campaign messaging, and political narratives. However, voters should focus just as carefully, if not more so, on results.

In this special analysis, The Hamiltonian examines how Hamilton compares to several comparable Ontario municipalities across key measures including infrastructure, taxation, public confidence, downtown conditions, housing delivery, governance, and overall execution. The record matters, and it should inform decisions at the ballot box.

For years, Hamilton has positioned itself as a city on the rise — a community poised for transformation, investment, intensification, and economic growth. Yet when Hamilton is measured against comparable Ontario municipalities, a more concerning picture emerges: a city increasingly struggling with execution, transparency, infrastructure performance, downtown conditions, safety, housing delivery, and public confidence. This is not a matter of political ideology. It is a matter of measurable outcomes.

Hamilton residents now carry one of the heavier urban tax burdens in Ontario while continuing to confront deteriorating roads, visible disorder in the downtown core, rising infrastructure deficits, controversial governance decisions, sluggish project delivery, gun violence concerns, and persistent questions surrounding fiscal discipline and accountability.

The issue is no longer whether Hamilton faces challenges. Every municipality does. The more important question is whether Hamilton is keeping pace with comparable cities facing many of the same pressures.

Increasingly, the evidence suggests it is not.

Hamilton is often compared either to Toronto — a global city with vastly different scale and resources — or to municipalities lacking Hamilton’s urban complexity. More appropriate comparator cities include:

• London
• Kitchener
• Waterloo
• Windsor
• Oshawa
• Mississauga
• Burlington

These municipalities face many of the same pressures:
• aging infrastructure,
• housing growth targets,
• downtown revitalization challenges,
• policing and social service pressures,
• transit demands,
• and economic transition pressures.

Yet several of these municipalities appear to be outperforming Hamilton in key areas that directly affect residents’ quality of life.

Hamilton’s infrastructure deficit has become one of the defining policy failures of the modern city. Road

Before the Ballot- With Ward 14 Candidate Kojo Damptey

Welcome to this instalment of Before the Ballot featuring Ward 14 Candidate Kojo Damptey

What motivated you to run for council, and why do you believe now is the right time for new leadership in your ward?

As a resident of Ward 14, I see the continuous lack of attention to civic governance, I see the lack of proactive long-term planning for the Ward and the city, I see the lack of urgency to address long-standing issues. Residents across our city are facing acute, unprecedented economic, social, and municipal challenges. The response we see from Council is talking about the challenges ad nauseam without bringing forward tangible solutions and actions. For example, on the Mountain, we are experiencing an increase in youth crimes/violence. Critical questions would be: what strategies are the City, school boards and young people developing to tackle this issue? How are we engaging with parents, youth-led groups, and other interested parties to come up with an action plan to work with youth?

As one of the candidates in the 2022 election, I talked about establishing a youth Council from the high schools in Ward 14 to serve as a conduit for understanding youth concerns. These are some of the ideas, actions, and strategies we need from Councillors to create a city where youth feel they are heard, valued, and are part of the solutions.

From 2019 to 2021, I worked diligently with the City of Hamilton staff to develop Hamilton’s first Community Safety and Well-Being Plan (this plan is mandated by the Provincial government). The plan highlighted the need for a robust coordinated plan to address the following concerns: hate crimes, violence/crime, substance use, mental health stigma, access to income, and homelessness. Five years later, we are still dealing with these issues on a magnified scope. This is another example of the lack of urgency in addressing long standing issues.

I highlight these two examples to point out that we need people on Council who can bring forward ideas,

Transparency Denied: Union Appeals City’s Refusal to Disclose Water Strike Costs

For months, questions surrounding the true financial impact of Hamilton’s water workers strike have lingered without meaningful public answers. Now, the matter is escalating further.

The Hamiltonian has learned that the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 772 (IUOE) has formally appealed the City of Hamilton’s refusal to disclose records related to strike costs to Ontario’s Information and Privacy Commissioner (IPC).

In an update provided to The Hamiltonian this week, IUOE Business Manager Greg Hoath confirmed:

“The union counsel has sent our formal appeal to the IPC in early May.”

The statement marks the latest development in an ongoing dispute over public transparency and accountability tied to one of Hamilton’s most significant labour disruptions in recent years.

Earlier correspondence reviewed by The Hamiltonian showed the union had received an access decision from the City under FOI #26-052. Following that decision, the union indicated it intended to challenge the refusal through the IPC process.

At issue is a straightforward but important public-interest question: how much did the strike actually cost Hamilton taxpayers?

Despite repeated public discussion about operational pressures, emergency measures, management responses, and broader impacts during the strike, the City has thus far resisted disclosing the underlying financial details being sought through the freedom-of-information process.

That refusal raises legitimate concerns.

Municipal governments frequently speak about transparency, accountability, and public trust. Yet those principles become most important precisely when the information requested may be politically uncomfortable or financially sensitive.

Taxpayers fund municipal operations. Taxpayers absorb the consequences of labour disputes. Taxpayers therefore have a reasonable expectation to understand the financial implications of major municipal events — particularly one involving essential infrastructure and public services. The city's ongoing denial will not play well in an election year where taxpayers want to know how their money is spent. 

The issue extends beyond labour relations.

This is fundamentally about whether the public can meaningfully evaluate decisions made by municipal leadership during a major civic disruption. Without disclosure, residents are left to speculate about:
• overtime expenditures,
• contingency staffing costs,
• external contractor expenses,
• operational impacts,
• legal costs,
• and the broader fiscal consequences associated with the strike response.

When governments withhold this type of information, public confidence can erode quickly. The Red Hill Expressway issue and "Sewagegate" serve as stark reminders of how denying information to Hamilton residents, can have a disastrous impact at the polls.  

Freedom-of-information legislation exists specifically to prevent governments from becoming the sole gatekeepers of politically consequential information. While there are legitimate exemptions under Ontario’s access laws, blanket resistance to disclosure involving taxpayer expenditures inevitably invites scrutiny.

The City may ultimately argue that portions of the requested records fall within statutory exemptions. However, the IPC appeal process will now test whether those exemptions were applied appropriately — or too broadly.

Importantly, this matter is no longer merely a political disagreement or media inquiry. It has now entered a formal oversight process before Ontario’s independent privacy and access watchdog.

That development matters. The outcome could establish an important precedent regarding how far municipalities can go in shielding labour-dispute-related financial information from public view.

For Hamilton residents, the broader principle remains clear: transparency should not depend on whether disclosure is convenient; something you may wish to consider when determining who you will cast your vote for. 

Public trust is strengthened when governments provide information willingly — not only when compelled through appeals and oversight mechanisms.

The Hamiltonian will continue following the IPC appeal process and any future rulings or disclosures connected to FOI #26-052.

Topics covered to date in our “Before the Ballot: A Candidate’s Guide” series.

Based on the positive feedback The Hamiltonian has been receiving from readers — particularly individuals considering or running for public office for the first time — we are pleased to provide the following summary of topics covered to date in our “Before the Ballot: A Candidate’s Guide” series.

Designed to inform, encourage, and prepare prospective candidates for the realities of municipal campaigning and public service, the series continues to explore the practical, strategic, and personal dimensions of seeking elected office in Hamilton.

As the municipal election season progresses, The Hamiltonian will continue expanding this series with additional insights, interviews, and guidance for both candidates and voters alike.

Click on the topics below to access each article:

Build a Winning Ground Game

Building a Credible Platform

The Campaign Team

Fundraising

Door to Door Canvassing

Digital Campaigning at the Local Level

How to Identify and Mobilize Your Base

The Hamiltonian- More Than Coverage

Campaign Signs

The Media is Not Your  Campaign Team

Before the Ballot- Candidate's Guide- Door to Door canvassing

If you are a serious candidate in the upcoming election, it is time to armour up. The Hamiltonian's series, Before the Ballot- the Candidate's Guide offers insights that will optimize your chances of being the next Mayor, Councillor or School Trustee. In this edition, we tackle door to door canvassing.

For all the changes in modern campaigning, one reality remains remarkably consistent in municipal politics: voters still respond to direct, personal contact. In Hamilton, where neighbourhood identity and local relationships carry significant weight, door-to-door canvassing remains one of the most effective tools a campaign can use. But successful canvassing is not about talking the most. It is about listening well, staying disciplined, and leaving a positive impression.

Remember the purpose of canvassing. The goal is not to “win” every conversation. The goal is to:
– introduce the candidate,
– identify supporters,
– understand voter concerns,
– and build familiarity and trust.
Candidates who approach canvassing as a performance often miss the most important part: hearing what residents are actually saying.

Start with a clear, respectful introduction.
The opening matters. Keep it simple:
– who you are,
– what office you are seeking,
– and why you are there.
Avoid launching immediately into a speech or platform summary. Most voters decide within seconds whether the interaction feels respectful and genuine.

Ask questions early.
Strong canvassers speak less than they listen. A simple question such as: “What issues matter most to you right now?” often produces far more valuable information than a long policy explanation. Voters remember candidates who appeared interested in their concerns—not just in delivering talking points.

Keep answers concise. When residents raise issues, respond clearly and directly. Avoid overexplaining or trying to solve every problem at the doorstep.
Municipal voters generally appreciate candidates who:
– answer honestly,
– stay grounded,
– and avoid sounding rehearsed.
Short, focused responses tend to be more persuasive than lengthy ones.

Avoid arguing. Not every voter will support you. Some may strongly disagree with your views or already support another candidate. Do not get drawn into confrontational exchanges. Respectful disagreement handled calmly often leaves a better impression than trying to “win” the argument. A simple: “I appreciate your  perspective. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me.” is often the best way to end an unproductive conversation.

Do not overpromise. One of the most damaging habits in municipal campaigning is making commitments simply to satisfy the moment. Voters are increasingly sensitive to promises that sound unrealistic or beyond municipal authority. If you do not know the answer to a question, it is entirely acceptable to say “That’s something I’d want to look into more carefully.” Honesty is usually more credible than improvisation.

Respect time and boundaries. Some residents want detailed discussions. Others do not. Strong canvassers recognize the difference quickly.
If someone appears rushed or uninterested:
– thank them politely,
– leave literature if appropriate,
– and move on.
Persistence should never become pressure.

Pay attention to tone and body language.
Canvassing is not only about words. Voters often respond to:
– eye contact,
– attentiveness,
– calm energy,
– and professionalism.
A candidate who appears rushed, distracted, or overly aggressive can undermine their own message regardless of what they say.

Use literature properly. Campaign literature should support the conversation, not replace it. A clean, readable handout with:
– the candidate’s name,
– core priorities,
– and contact information
is usually sufficient. Overly dense or cluttered material is less likely to be retained

Track what you learn. Every conversation provides useful information:
– supporter identification,
– recurring issues,
– neighbourhood concerns,
– or potential volunteers.
Campaigns that systematically record and use this information gain a major strategic advantage later in the race.

Stay consistent over time.
Canvassing effectiveness compounds through repetition. Voters who see a candidate multiple times—in person, online, and in the community—begin forming familiarity and trust. Consistency often matters more than intensity.

A final note

Municipal campaigns remain deeply personal. Long after policy details blur together, voters often remember how a candidate made them feel at the door. The strongest canvassers are not necessarily the most polished speakers. They are usually the candidates who appeared:
– respectful,
– informed,
– approachable,
– and genuinely interested in the community they hope to represent.

In Hamilton’s municipal environment, that kind of connection still matters enormously.

Enjoying this series, or know of someone who would benefit from this article? Share it with them. It's as easy as clicking the envelope icon near the comments field below. 

The Gloves Are Off- Gillespie vs. Horwath

The gloves appear to be off as Mayoral candidate Scarlett Gillespie didn't hold back in a Facebook post in which she alleges that Mayor Andrea Horwath is "virtue signalling" disingenuously. 

Scarlett Gillespie’s decision to publicly and directly accuse Mayor Andrea Horwath of “virtue signalling” marks a noticeable escalation in the tone of Hamilton’s emerging mayoral race. Up until now, much of the pre-campaign atmosphere has been relatively measured, with candidates carefully positioning themselves around affordability, public safety, infrastructure, and trust in government. Gillespie’s remarks suggest at least one challenger may be prepared to move beyond policy disagreements and into more confrontational political territory.

The political impact of this could cut both ways. For some voters frustrated with what they perceive as symbolic politics or carefully managed messaging from City Hall, Gillespie’s comments may resonate as blunt authenticity and a willingness to challenge the incumbent directly. In an era where many voters say they are tired of scripted political language, sharp criticism can sometimes energize supporters looking for a candidate willing to “say what others won’t.”

At the same time, aggressive attacks carry risk. Hamilton voters have historically shown an appreciation for candidates who remain composed and solutions-focused, particularly at the municipal level where residents often prioritize practical leadership over ideological conflict. If the campaign becomes overly personal or divisive, some voters may view it as unnecessary negativity rather than constructive accountability.

What this moment likely signals most clearly is that the race may become far more competitive — and far more combative — than many initially expected. If challengers believe Mayor Horwath is politically vulnerable, voters can expect sharper contrasts, tougher scrutiny, and a campaign environment where narrative and perception may matter just as much as policy itself.

 While Ms. Horwath has yet to register to run again for Mayor, we expect her to at some point.

The Hamiltonian has reached out to the Mayor for comment on Ms. Gillespie's statement and we will publish the Mayor's comment in full, should she provide one. 

The Hamiltonian

Before the Ballot So Far

Candidate Interviews Published to Date

The Hamiltonian's Before the Ballot series gives Hamilton voters direct access to candidate views, priorities, and leadership philosophies before the formal campaign season fully unfolds. This page will be updated as additional interviews are published.

Mayoral Candidates

• Sasha Austin
• Ejaz Butt
• Scarlett Gillespie
• Keanin Loomis

Ward 2

• Brian Lewis
• Kelly Oucharek

Ward 3

• Christopher Demelo
• Graham Schreiber
• Andrew Selman
• Kristeen Sprague
• Christine Cayuga

Ward 4

• Jason Farr
• Tammy Hwang
• Todd Anderson

Ward 7

• Mark Daly
• Esther Pauls

Ward 8

• Jacob Tenbrinke

Ward 9

• Abhijeet Gill
• Jonathan Statakos

Ward 10

• Jeff Beattie
• Tanjoban Nijjar

Ward 12

• Fred Bennick

Ward 13

• Rick Kunc
• Loren Lieberman

Ward 14

• Kojo Damptey

Ward 15

• Colleen Stewart
• Zac Wrobel

Coverage Map

Ward 1 – No Interview Yet
Ward 2 – Covered
Ward 3 – Covered
Ward 4 – Covered
Ward 5 – No Interview Yet
Ward 6 – No Interview Yet
Ward 7 – Covered
Ward 8 – Covered
Ward 9 – Covered
Ward 10 – Covered
Ward 11 – No Interview Yet
Ward 12 – Covered
Ward 13 – Covered
Ward 14 – Covered
Ward 15 – Covered

The Hamiltonian will continue updating this page as additional candidates participate in Before the Ballot.

Before the Ballot- With Ward 9 Candidate Jonathan Stathakos

Welcome to this instalment of Before the Ballot featuring Ward 9 candidate Jonathan Stathakos.

What motivated you to run for council, and why do you believe now is the right time for new leadership in your ward?

Upper Stoney Creek is my home. I was born and raised here, by a single mother on a fixed income. Growing up in that household shaped everything I believe about affordability, opportunity, and what it means when hard work has to stretch every dollar.

Like a lot of my neighbours, I've watched our community grow tremendously over the past decade. But I've also watched our roads, our services, and our quality of life fall behind.

Every week I hear the same thing at the doors and at community events. Families are working harder than ever and still falling behind. Property taxes keep climbing. Auto theft and reckless driving have changed how people feel in their own neighbourhoods. The smell from GFL is disrupting daily life. And the LINC and Red Hill are jammed every morning and every night.

It doesn't have to be this way. 

Hundreds of residents have encouraged me to run, and since announcing, the response has been