Former Ward 11 councilor Jeromy Farkas has narrowly won over Communities First leader Sonya Sharp by less than a percentage point in the 2025 Calgary mayoral election, as per unofficial results. Sharp has indicated her intention to request a recount following the close outcome of the race.
In the latest figures released by the city, Farkas secured 91,068 votes compared to Sharp’s 90,484 votes, with a margin of fewer than 600 votes between them. The city’s returning officer, Kate Martin, mentioned that a recount may be sought for specific polling stations if the results are within half a percentage point of the total ballots cast for mayor.
Preliminary city-wide data highlights that Farkas holds a slim lead over Sharp, accounting for approximately 0.17% of the total 348,626 ballots cast. Sharp emphasized in a statement to the media that she is aiming for a recount to ensure the accuracy of the count due to the extremely close margin of victory.
If the results stand, Farkas is set to become Calgary’s 38th mayor, marking the first time since 1980 that an incumbent mayor has been unseated. In a post-election statement outside city hall, Farkas expressed gratitude towards Jyoti Gondek for her service as mayor and emphasized unity in working towards the city’s betterment.
The voter turnout for this year’s election appears to be reduced compared to previous years, with reports of lengthy queues at polling stations. Final unofficial turnout figures are anticipated to be disclosed later on Tuesday. Farkas, who ran as an independent candidate, had previously contested in the 2021 election against Gondek but garnered fewer votes this time around.
Gondek, who succeeded in the 2021 mayoral race, conceded defeat in the 2025 election at a campaign event, acknowledging the support received and expressing optimism for Calgary’s future. The new council composition will be revealed following the ongoing manual counting process, as electronic tabulators are not being utilized due to a provincial ban enacted in 2024.
Farkas, characterized by his background in southeast Calgary, has a political science degree and has served as a city councillor. His campaign focused on collaboration and results-driven governance, aiming to bridge ideological gaps for the betterment of the city. His opponent, Sharp, centered her platform on public safety and infrastructure enhancements, advocating for increased police presence.
As the election results settle, the incoming city council and mayor are poised to steer Calgary towards a new chapter, with a blend of fresh faces and experienced voices shaping the city’s governance landscape.
