Kris Langenfeld has run for mayor in Toronto twice already – and has lost both times – but that isn't stopping him from trying his luck again.
While he didn't raise funds or use volunteers in his previous attempts, he says he's building a campaign website this time around and is taking donations that could see him hire staff and pay for advertisements for the first time."I put my faith in God," he says in an interview. "It would certainly surprise me to win."
Experts say the so-called "fringe" candidates are an important feature of an open, democratic election, although a crowded field could make it tougher for voters to make a choice. The 56-year-old's campaign promises include building more affordable housing and tackling violence on transit. Randy Besco, who teaches political science at the University of Toronto, says in a crammed electoral slate, some candidates have clearer shots at office, others compete to highlight issues they care about and some participate to gain recognition that could help their future ambitions.
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