Toronto mayor skips mayoral debate on Jew-hatred

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow did not attend a mayoral forum on antisemitism held at Adath Israel Congregation in North York on Tuesday, drawing criticism from mayoral candidate Brad Bradford. Bradford stated, "Mayor Chow chose not to be there," despite hundreds of Torontonians gathering for the discussion on antisemitism and public safety. Chow, who has faced criticism from Toronto's Jewish community, explained her absence by saying she had not yet launched her campaign, adding, "I will continue to engage with the Jewish communities." The forum included candidates Brad Bradford and Chris Alexander, with Alexander indicating he would consider dropping out to support Bradford against Chow. Israeli Ambassador to Canada Iddo Moed expressed concern about rising antisemitism in Toronto and welcomed government efforts to address it.