Most votes have now been counted in Edmonton’s 2025 municipal election, with longtime city councillor Andrew Knack leading decisively in the race for mayor. Although the results remain unofficial, Knack’s margin of victory was strong enough for rival Tim Cartmell to concede.

With 211 of 236 polls reporting, Knack held roughly 38 per cent of the vote, compared with about 29 per cent for Cartmell. Former councillor Michael Walters was in third place with close to 12 per cent, followed by Omar Mohammad at about 10 per cent. Voter turnout was estimated at just over 30 per cent, the lowest seen in Edmonton since 2007.

Knack, who has represented the city’s west side on council since 2013, campaigned on affordability, safety and steady management of city finances. In his victory speech, he said residents had shown they wanted practical, non-partisan leadership at City Hall.

Full results for city councillor and school trustee races are still being finalized, but early counts suggest many incumbents will return to their seats. In the Edmonton Public School Board races, Sherri O’Keefe led in Ward A, while Linda Lindsay held a wide lead in Ward B. For the Edmonton Catholic School Board, Sandra Palazzo was leading in Ward 72.

Knack, who grew up in Edmonton and previously worked in retail management before entering politics, is expected to take office once results are certified later this week. He has served on council for more than a decade, most recently representing Ward Nakota Isga.

The city has said official results will be declared by noon on Friday, October 24. This year’s hand-counted ballots, introduced under new provincial legislation, have slowed the final tally. The process also led to longer wait times at some polling stations, which officials believe contributed to the low voter turnout.

While the official results are still pending, the early outcome points to continuity rather than major change at City Hall. Knack’s expected election marks a shift from the divisive politics seen in some neighbouring municipalities, reinforcing Edmonton’s tradition of independent local governance focused on the city’s day-to-day concerns.