As the October 2026 municipal election draws closer, the political landscape in Vancouver is already heating up. With the lessons of the 2022 landslide victory by Mayor Ken Sim and ABC Vancouver still fresh, progressive parties are beginning to mobilize. Two major developments are currently shaping the narrative: the early nomination of William Azaroff as the mayoral candidate for OneCity, and a growing movement to prevent a "vote split" that could hand ABC a second term.
OneCity Fields William Azaroff to Tackle Housing and Affordability
In a move to build early momentum, OneCity Vancouver has officially nominated William Azaroff to run for Mayor in 2026. Azaroff, a well-known figure in Vancouverâs non-profit and financial sectors, currently serves as the CEO of Brightside Community Homes Foundation and formerly held executive roles at Vancity.
Azaroffâs campaign is expected to center on the cityâs most pressing issues: housing affordability, climate action, and social equity. By positioning a leader with deep roots in community housing early in the cycle, OneCity aims to present a credible, professional alternative to the current administration. Azaroff has already begun "building support" across the city, focusing on a vision of a more inclusive and affordable Vancouver.
The "Vote Split" Dilemma: Can the Progressives Unite?
While Azaroffâs candidacy brings a fresh face to the race, local political analysts are raising alarms about the potential for a "progressive vote split." In the 2022 election, the fragmented field of left-leaning and center-left partiesâincluding Forward Vancouver, OneCity, the Greens, and COPEâallowed Ken Sim and his ABC Vancouver party to secure a dominant majority.
Recent reports from CBC highlight that discussions are already happening behind the scenes to avoid a repeat of 2022. The core question for 2026 is whether these various factions can rally behind a single mayoral candidate or form a strategic alliance. If multiple high-profile progressive candidates enter the race, there is a significant risk that they will cancel each other out, clearing a path for an ABC Vancouver repeat.
What This Means for Vancouver Voters in 2026
The 2026 election will likely be a referendum on Mayor Ken Simâs "tough on crime" and "pro-growth" agenda. For voters, the emergence of William Azaroff signals that the opposition is ready to challenge the status quo with a focus on social infrastructure. However, the success of his campaignâor any challengerâs campaignâwill depend heavily on whether the progressive side of the ballot remains divided or finds a way to consolidate.
Key Themes to Watch:
- Housing Policy: How Azaroffâs experience at Brightside will contrast with ABCâs development-heavy approach.
- Coalition Building: Whether the Greens and other parties will endorse a single candidate or field their own.
- Public Safety and Services: The ongoing debate over police funding versus social services.