Why an Ontario mayor is backing out of his re-election bid

BILLINGS TOWNSHIP — This is a story about a politician you’ve likely never heard of. 

For the past eight years, he’s been a successful two-term mayor in his community. He recently submitted his papers in to run for the job a third time.

But, suddenly, a few days later, he changed his mind and dropped out — surely shocking the 752 people he’s responsible for in Billings Township on Manitoulin Island.

The job was essentially Barker’s again for the asking. But he didn’t ask. The more he thought about re-upping for another term, the more he thought: Nope. Just can’t do it. 

Strangely enough, almost all of the members of the township council have come to the same conclusion. They’re not running again, either. The only member seeking re-election is someone who’s had the job for only a few months, having replaced a councillor who couldn’t finish their term. 

What gives? 

“Why aren’t you running again?” I ask Barker. 

“Don’t ask me that,” he smiles. 

“I am asking!” I insist. “What […] This is an excerpt. Read the full article at TVO.org.