Mayoral Election
In late October, an article ran in the Hamilton Spectator critiquing the mayor for what was perceived as political self-aggrandizing while noting that his 1988–1991 term was marked by successes for the city. In the piece, Morrow noted that he felt his strongest competition would come from Ward 3 Alderman Brian Hinkley, a New Democrat with an extensive record at city hall. [3]
In early debates, most notably one hosted by Hamilton's Junior Chamber of Commerce, Hinkley was an aggressive opponent of Morrow's leadership style, accusing the mayor of "over-promising and under-delivering to the community." [4] Morrow attacked Hinkley for his ties to the New Democrats and his stance on the Red Hill Valley Parkway. [4]
Hinkley focused his campaign on the lack of real choice offered to Hamiltonian voters in past elections, even running with the slogan, "This time you have a real choice." [5] Widely critiqued in local media for leading what was known as the "Gang of Four" New Democratic caucus on council, Hinkley gained a reputation as a strong worker with community-based issues, relating well with constituents and ensuring that Hamilton's marginalized people had a voice at the decision making table. [5]
For his part in the race, Michael Baldasaro attempted to repeat his 1988 success, garnering over 7,500 votes against Morrow. Baldasaro announced he would be creating political trading cards for his campaign, though there was no follow-up as to the status of the project. Though he was contesting the mayoral election, a disciple of his Church of the Universe sought election in Ward 6, dividing Baldasro and campaign manager Walter Tucker's attention. [6]
Political newcomer Bill Jones as, at the time, a 30-year-old employee of Dofasco, was less than enthusiastic about his chances, telling the Spectator he did not expect to win, rather make a statement about the state of Hamilton's politics at the time. Jones was not affiliated with any political party, and had not sought elected office before entering the race for mayor. An advocate of more direct democracy, Jones wanted to cut the mayor's salary and put constituent needs ahead of political goals. When asked why he did not seek the open aldermanic seat in Ward 3 where he lived, Jones said that he felt the mayor would have more say. [7]
Summary of the November 11, 1991 Hamilton, Ontario Mayoral Election | Candidate | Popular vote |
|---|
| Votes | % | ±% |
|---|
| Robert Morrow(Incumbent) | 68,374 | 75.35% | n/a |
| Brian Hinkley | 17,143 | 18.89% | n/a |
| Bill Jones | 2,723 | 3.0% | n/a |
| Michael Baldasaro | 2,507 | 2.8% | n/a |
| Total votes | 90,747 | 100% | |
| Registered voters | n/a | n/a | n/a |
Note: All Hamilton Municipal Elections are officially non-partisan.
Note: Candidate campaign colours are based on the prominent colour used in campaign items (signs, literature, etc.)
and are used as a visual differentiation between candidates. |
Sources:Peters, Ken. "Morrow took freeway to victory",
Hamilton Spectator, Wednesday, November 13, 1991, Metro, B1. |
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