The race to become Oshawa’s next mayor has expanded into a four-candidate contest as the city prepares for the municipal election scheduled for October 26, 2026.
With current Mayor Dan Carter not seeking another term, voters will choose from a growing field of candidates offering different visions for the future of Oshawa. The confirmed mayoral candidates include Coun. Tito-Dante Marimpietri, Coun. Derek Giberson, Coun. Jim Lee, and local businessman Henry Onwuachu.
Long-time Ward 2 Councillor Tito-Dante Marimpietri was the first to officially register his candidacy in early May. Drawing on more than two decades of municipal experience, Marimpietri says his knowledge of city government and economic development positions him to lead Oshawa through its next phase of growth.
During his time on council, Marimpietri has been closely involved in economic development initiatives, including efforts to attract investment in advanced manufacturing, technology, and defence-related industries. He has also supported strategies aimed at strengthening Oshawa’s role within Ontario’s growing innovation economy.
Ward 4 Councillor Derek Giberson has entered the race campaigning on increased transparency, infrastructure renewal, and fiscal accountability. Giberson argues that Oshawa must address what he describes as a significant infrastructure deficit while improving neighbourhood roads, public spaces, and long-term financial planning.
His campaign focuses on modernizing municipal operations and ensuring city investments are directed toward maintaining critical infrastructure as Oshawa continues to experience rapid population growth.
Ward 2 Councillor Jim Lee, a former firefighter with more than three decades of public service experience, says he decided to enter the race after receiving encouragement from local residents. Lee has identified affordability, public safety, and stronger collaboration between all levels of government among his top priorities.
Lee believes municipal leaders should work more closely with provincial and federal partners to address challenges affecting residents, including housing, public safety, and economic development.
Businessman Henry Onwuachu is making his first bid for elected office while bringing a private-sector perspective to the campaign. With a background in construction management and business, Onwuachu is advocating for policies that encourage investment, support job creation, and strengthen Oshawa’s business community.
He believes attracting new industries and expanding employment opportunities will help diversify the local economy while contributing to long-term solutions for issues such as downtown revitalization and economic growth.
The expanding field of candidates reflects a highly competitive race to replace Mayor Dan Carter and guide Oshawa through a period of continued residential, commercial, and industrial development. Housing, infrastructure, economic investment, affordability, public safety, and municipal transparency are expected to remain key campaign issues leading up to election day.
Residents will have several months to hear from the candidates as campaigns continue across the city ahead of the October 26, 2026 municipal election.
With four candidates officially seeking the city’s highest elected office, Oshawa voters will have multiple choices as they decide who will lead one of Durham Region’s fastest-growing municipalities over the next four years.
