Incumbent Drew Dilkens holds a modest lead in trader consensus for the October 26, 2026, Windsor mayoral election, reflecting his record on major projects such as the NextStar battery plant and Gordie Howe International Bridge amid economic pressures from U.S. tariffs. The race remains tight due to a crowded field of 11 candidates, with primary challenger Fred Francis, a longtime Ward 1 councillor, emphasizing affordability, transit restoration including the tunnel bus, and reversal of strong mayor powers to promote consensus-based decision-making. Recent debates and campaign exchanges have highlighted contrasts on housing density, community safety, homelessness initiatives, and job creation, while higher early voting turnout signals engaged voters. Other contenders register negligible support, leaving the outcome dependent on turnout and last-minute shifts in local priorities before polls close.