Before the Ballot- Candidate's Guide - Your Competitive Edge

The Hamiltonian releases its Before the Ballot- Candidate's Guide - Your Competitive Edge. This guide will be updated regularly.

Ready to sharpen your competitive edge? Download the guide by clicking here. 

The Warning Signs Are Everywhere

"I can feel it coming in the air tonight, oh Lord."

Phil Collins was not writing about municipal politics when he penned those famous lyrics, but they capture something that is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore in Hamilton's 2026 municipal election.

Something is changing.

For decades, a familiar script has guided many municipal campaigns.

The conventional wisdom went something like this: Summer is quiet. Voters are distracted. Campaigns can wait. Incumbents can afford to take their time. Serious campaigning begins after Labour Day, when people return from vacations and begin paying attention.

The assumption was simple. Wait until September. Secure media coverage. Roll out the platform. Attend debates. Let the campaign begin.

But there are growing signs that this script may no longer be reliable. The first sign is early registration.

Across Hamilton, candidates are entering races earlier than many observers would typically expect. Early registration is more than an administrative act. It signals intent. It signals commitment. Most importantly, it signals hunger.

The second sign is participation. An overwhelming majority of candidates invited to participate in The Hamiltonian's Before the Ballot series have accepted. Candidates are not waiting for election season. They are stepping forward now to answer questions, explain their priorities, and place their ideas before voters.

The third sign is visibility. Consider the mayoral race. Mayoral candidate Keanin Loomis has been highly visible, attending community events, meeting residents, participating in discussions, and steadily building his presence across the city.

Meanwhile, mayoral candidate Scarlett Gillespie has demonstrated an ability to penetrate social media conversations, attract attention, and inspire discussions.

At the same time, mayoral candidate Sasha Austin has sought to reshape the conversation by publicly challenging both Loomis and fellow candidate Rob Cooper to debate, signaling that some candidates are not prepared to wait for the traditional campaign calendar before testing their ideas in public.

Nor are these the only examples. Across Hamilton's wards, candidates are engaging , introducing themselves to voters, and building support long before many would traditionally consider campaign season to have begun.

Some are doing so quietly. Others more visibly. But they are doing it. And perhaps that is the most important point. This is not about any one candidate. It is about a broader shift.

Perhaps the most telling sign of all is the public response. The level of interest being generated around local politics is unmistakable. The Hamiltonian's readership numbers are climbing. Social media discussions are expanding. Conversations sparked by the Before the Ballot candidate interviews are spreading well beyond the original articles.

What is particularly noteworthy is not simply the volume of engagement, but its quality. Yes, there are still occasional comments driven more by emotion than analysis. Every election has them.

But increasingly, Hamiltonians are asking thoughtful questions. They are comparing visions. They are challenging assumptions. They are examining records. They are debating ideas rather than personalities. And even through the glorious weather we have been enjoying , people are engaging.

With relatively low voter turnout, one also wonders what segment of the population can be relied on to cast their ballot. More than likely, it will be those who engage and care about what candidates say on The Hamiltonian. 

Further, The Hamiltonian's Before the Ballot- The Candidates' Guide seeks to provide invaluable advice to anyone running. 

There is an energy building. There is curiosity. There is scrutiny. There is accountability. And there is a growing realization that voters no longer need to wait for traditional campaign season to begin learning about those who seek to govern them.

The information is already available. The conversations have already started. The campaign, in many respects, is already underway. That should give pause to anyone relying on the old assumptions.

The candidate who believes nobody is paying attention until September may discover that voters have been paying attention all summer and have checked them out of the conversation.

The incumbent who assumes name recognition alone will carry the day may discover that voters are looking more closely than ever before while recognizing that incumbency carries with it an unfair advantage. 

The campaign that waits for the traditional starting gun may find that the race has already left the starting line.

History has a habit of changing gradually and then suddenly. That is what we are witnessing now.

Perhaps Hamilton is entering a new era of municipal politics—one where engagement starts earlier, scrutiny runs deeper, and voters expect more from those seeking their trust. Perhaps The Before the Ballot series is more telling than anticipated. 

If so, the old playbook may not merely be outdated.

It may be obsolete.

Traction in Action- with Mayoral Candidate Ejaz Butt

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In this second edition. of Traction in Action, featuring pictures of candidates driving toward being elected, we feature mayoral candidate Ejaz Butt.

Before the Ballot- The Candidate's Guide - The Media Is Not Your Campaign Team

Municipal candidates often have a complicated relationship with the media. Some believe the media will ignore them. Others believe the media will help them. Some become frustrated when coverage does not appear. Others become overly dependent upon it.

The reality lies somewhere in between.

One of the most important lessons a candidate can learn is this: The media is not your campaign team.Nor should it be.

The primary responsibility of journalists and media organizations is to inform the public. Their job is not to elect candidates. Their job is not to defeat candidates. Their job is not to amplify campaign messaging simply because a campaign wishes it.

Candidates who understand this generally navigate media relationships more effectively than those who do not. Media outlets decide what is newsworthy through their own editorial lens.

Sometimes that will benefit a candidate. Sometimes it will not. Understanding this reality is essential.

The Changing Media Landscape

One of the most significant changes in modern municipal politics is that candidates are no longer dependent upon a handful of traditional media outlets to communicate with voters. That reality has fundamentally altered the political landscape.

Today, candidates can communicate through a wide variety of channels, including community publications, podcasts, online interview series, digital news platforms, blogs, social media, newsletters, and independent publishers. The result is that voters often have access to far more information about candidates than previous generations ever enjoyed.

The Rise of Direct-to-Voter Communication

In the past, candidates often depended upon a reporter's summary of their position. In The Hamiltonian, voters hear directly from candidates themselves. Candidate profiles and interviews allow voters to assess not only what candidates think, but how they think.

This shift has created new opportunities for candidates willing to engage thoughtfully and substantively. The strongest candidates are often those willing to answer questions in depth, explain their positions clearly, and make themselves accessible to public scrutiny.

Transparency itself has become a campaign asset.

Earned Media Versus Paid Media 

Campaigns typically operate in two media environments. The first is paid media. This includes advertising that a campaign controls completely. The candidate decides the message. The candidate decides the

Traction in Action, with Ward 15 Councillor Candidate Colleen Stewart

Hamiltonians often see candidates on signs, websites, and campaign literature. We'd like to show voters something a little different.

We invited all candidates running for Mayor or Council to submit one photograph of themselves "in action" — doing something that reflects who they are, what they care about, or how they engage with the community. Along with the photo, we asked them to include a brief one- or two-line caption

We are calling this series Traction in Action, because these are candidates who are driven and who are out there earning your vote, gaining traction in their respective races. 

This first edition features Ward 15 Councillor Candidate Colleen Stewart. Here is Colleen (on the left) in action:

Cleaning a garden on Dundas Street during Waterdown's Community Cleanup. Beautiful communities inspire good citizenship in the people who live in them. I was delighted  to help.

Before the Ballot- with Ward 3 Councillor Candidate Christine Cayuga

Welcome to this edition of Before the Ballot- with Ward 3 Councillor Candidate Christine Cayuga.

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 for running comes from the people I've met through owning a local diner and sitting as a Borad of Director on a non for profit . Every day, I hear residents community members ' concerns, ideas, and frustrations. Those conversations have shown me that people want leadership that listens, acts with integrity, and puts residents first. I believe Ward 3 deserves a strong voice at City Hall, and I'm ready to deliver that leadership.

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?

Ward 3 faces many challenges, but the three issues I hear about most often are affordability, neighbourhood safety and well-being, and trust in local government financial decisions.

1.Affordability is one of the biggest concerns I hear from residents. Families, seniors, and individuals are dealing with rising property taxes, utility costs, housing expenses, and the increasing cost of everyday living.

As a councillor, I would carefully review budgets and supporting documents , ask questions about spending, and ensure every dollar is being used responsibly. Residents work hard for their money and deserve to know their tax dollars are being spent wisely and effectively.

2. Neighborhood & safety Ward 3 residents want clean streets, well-maintained public spaces, and solutions that address issues such as property crime, illegal dumping, neglected infrastructure, traffic safety, and concerns related to homelessness and mental health.

I would work with residents, City staff, Hamilton Police, community organizations, and local businesses to identify priorities and develop practical solutions. This includes improving lighting in public spaces, advocating for traffic-calming measures where needed, supporting community safety initiatives, maintaining parks and public spaces, and ensuring support services are available for all residents.

3. Trust in local government and financial decision-making is another issue I hear about regularly from residents. People want confidence that decisions are being carefully reviewed—not simply rubber-stamped.

Residents want to know that when Council is considering a project, budget item, or major development, the right questions are being asked: What is the purpose? Why is it needed? When will it be completed? What are the expected costs? Are there potential cost overruns, delays, or long-term financial impacts?

As a councillor, I believe it is my responsibility to do the homework, review reports thoroughly, ask questions, and ensure decisions are made with transparency and accountability. Residents deserve clear explanations about how their tax dollars are being spent and what results they can expect. Good governance means being prepared, informed, and willing to ask questions before decisions are made—not after. Building trust starts with openness, accountability, and ensuring residents have confidence that their interests are being represented at City Hall.

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

I would approach tough decisions by listening first, gathering the facts, and asking questions. I want to understand the costs, benefits, risks, and long-term impacts before making a decision. While not everyone will agree with every outcome, residents deserve transparency about how decisions are made. My goal is to be accountable, make informed choices, respect taxpayer dollars, and ensure decisions benefit residents both today and for future generations."

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

I bring to table the perspective of a small business owner who understands budgets, accountability, and the importance of serving people. Through my diner, I've had countless conversations with residents and have heard firsthand the challenges they're facing. I am approachable, independent, and willing to ask tough questions. I believe residents want a councillor who listens, does the homework, and makes thoughtful decisions with integrity, and that's the leadership I hope to bring to Ward 3.

In addition, my experience serving on a Board of Directors has given me a strong understanding of governance, oversight, policy development, strategic planning, and fiduciary responsibility. I've learned the importance of reviewing information carefully, asking questions, considering different perspectives, and making decisions that are in the best interests of the organization and the people it serves.

I have a strong sense of community. Through my business, volunteer work, and community involvement, I have had the opportunity to connect with residents from all walks of life. I understand the challenges people are facing because I've listened to their concerns and heard their stories firsthand.

Together, these experiences have prepared me to be a thoughtful, accountable, and effective representative for Ward 3—someone who listens, leads with integrity, and works collaboratively to find practical solutions for our community.

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

Cayugaward3@Gmail.com
Cell:365-335-4196
www.christinecayuga@ward3.com

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

Before the Ballot- with Ward 12 Councillor Candidate Fred Bennick

Welcome to this edition of Before the Ballot- with Ward 12 Councillor Candidate Fred Bennick

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

I’m running in ward 12, that is Ancaster, Rural Ancaster, and West Flamborough, out of a desire to make a positive impact on our city and our community. I want to see, not just our part of the city thrive, but the whole city of Hamilton. I choose to run at this time because I also have some serious concerns about the direction and condition of things at City Hall. Increased property taxes (23% in this last term alone) crumbling infrastructure, poor financial management, and lack of accountability are just too prevalent. New and more competent leadership is urgently needed to address these issues. I believe I have the skills and time necessary to do this work. It will not be easy. In fact, I know it will be hard. However, hard work has never been something that I have shied away from.

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?

My campaign has 4 pillars.

A. Infrastructure that works. Ie roads, and associated procurement.
B. Lower Property Tax
C. Community Safety.
D. End the upcoming Rain Tax

Each of these pillars requires further explanation, which I’d be pleased to discuss with any Ward 12 Resident.  I can assure residents that calls and emails will be returned promptly.

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

I believe Council needs a much stronger review of spending growth, administrative expansion, and project prioritization. We also need to distinguish between essential infrastructure and discretionary spending. Growing our commercial and industrial base needs to accelerate which will lessen the tax burden on homeowners.

People feel they are paying more and getting less. We need fiscal responsibility, stronger infrastructure planning, and leadership that will focus on the basics that residents care about every day.

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

I would encourage anyone interested in knowing about me to visit my campaign website. (Bennink.ca) you can see my background including building a business starting at age 23, serving on many Boards, giving back to my community, etc.

Residents feel they are paying more and getting less. Taxes go up, roads get worse, they can’t get anyone to answer their calls or emails. We have some councillors with a very narrow ideology, and I believe that needs to change. Will it be easy? No, not at all. It’ll be hard work. I learned the importance of working hard and doing all things to the best of my ability from my parents and extended family. Like many people in Ward 12 and in the city of Hamilton, I am from an immigrant family. My wife and I are children of Dutch immigrants. We learned the value of hard work, honesty, and commitment to family, faith, and community. It is these things which also give me hope for the future. Our city can and will thrive when we work together for the good of all.

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

FredBenninkward12@gmail.com

Cell/text 905.570.5665

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

Before the Ballot- In the Mix - Ward 3

What the Early Ward 3 Interviews May Mean for the Race

The Ward 3 race is beginning to reveal something increasingly important: the candidates are not talking about the same problems.

While all four candidates express dissatisfaction with the status quo, they approach the ward from very different perspectives. That may ultimately determine who gains traction with voters.

At first glance, there appears to be a common thread running through the campaign. Affordability, taxes, neighbourhood conditions, public safety, and accountability all emerge as recurring themes. However, beneath those broad concerns are distinctly different visions for what Ward 3 needs.

Andrew Selman has positioned himself as the accountability and taxpayer-focused candidate. His interview repeatedly returns to issues of spending, taxation, project oversight, transparency, and measurable outcomes. He frames many of Ward 3's challenges through the lens of City Hall performance and financial management. His message appears designed to resonate with residents who believe they are paying more while receiving less in return. His emphasis on audits, process improvement, derelict properties, and economic development suggests a campaign built around fiscal oversight and municipal efficiency.

Christopher Demelo occupies a somewhat different space. While he also speaks about taxes and service delivery, his approach is more governance-oriented than purely fiscal. Drawing on his union leadership experience, Demelo presents himself as someone accustomed to balancing competing interests and solving practical problems. His focus on roads, housing standards, homelessness, and long-term planning may appeal to voters looking for a candidate who combines social concerns with operational management.

Graham Schreiber's interview stands apart in both tone and content. His campaign appears centered on public safety, crime, narcotics activity, property standards, and frustration with government spending. His language is direct, sometimes blunt, and likely intended to resonate with residents who feel that political correctness and bureaucracy have prevented honest conversations about neighbourhood decline. The challenge for Schreiber may be whether that directness attracts a broad enough coalition of voters beyond those already sharing his frustrations.

Kristeen Sprague presents perhaps the most community-oriented and grassroots approach of the four candidates. Her interview focuses on listening, accessibility, local concerns, and responsiveness. Rather than emphasizing large structural reforms, she highlights practical neighbourhood issues such as garbage collection, beautification, environmental cleanup, parks, and community engagement. Her background on advisory committees and community boards may help her appeal to voters who prioritize representation and local involvement over ideological debates.

Taken together, these interviews suggest that Ward 3 may not be a traditional left-versus-right contest. Instead, it may become a competition among four different theories of leadership.

One theory argues that Ward 3's problems stem primarily from spending, taxation, and weak accountability.

Another argues that better management and practical governance can improve services and quality of life.

A third argues that public safety, enforcement, and neighbourhood standards require far greater attention.

A fourth argues that residents simply need a stronger voice and more responsive representation.

At this stage, Selman appears to have assembled the most comprehensive policy platform among the candidates interviewed so far, while Demelo presents himself as a pragmatic problem-solver. Schreiber is offering a sharper anti-establishment message, and Sprague is emphasizing community connection and local responsiveness.

The critical question for Ward 3 voters may become which issue rises to the top of the public agenda over the coming months. If affordability and taxes dominate the conversation, candidates emphasizing fiscal accountability could benefit. If concerns around homelessness, public disorder, and neighbourhood safety intensify, voters may gravitate toward candidates with stronger enforcement-oriented messages. If residents become focused on responsiveness, accessibility, and community engagement, candidates emphasizing grassroots representation may gain momentum.

What is clear from these early interviews is that Ward 3 is unlikely to be a one-issue race. The candidates are presenting voters with distinctly different paths forward. As more residents begin paying attention to the election, the candidate who best connects Ward-wide frustrations with a credible plan for change may ultimately emerge as the one to watch.

The race remains early, but Ward 3 is already showing signs of becoming one of Hamilton's more interesting electoral contests.

Of Note: Incumbent Ward 3 Councillor Nrinder Nann has yet to register and we have yet to hear from candidate Christine Cayuga. In an election year where early activity is becoming a hallmark, it will be interesting to see if there is any correlation between early activity and momentum.