Incumbent Patrick Johnstone of Community First New West holds a clear lead in trader consensus for the October 17, 2026, New Westminster mayoral election due to his established record since winning office in 2022 and his party's majority on council. Challenger Daniel Fontaine of the New West Progressives, a sitting councillor, has focused recent campaigning on public safety, street cleanliness, taxpayer accountability, and greater responsiveness at city hall, including platform announcements on enforcement officers and housing supports. With nominations and advanced voting periods approaching in September, the race remains a two-candidate contest between the incumbent's continuity message on affordability and social policy and the challenger's push for change. Other declared or potential candidates show minimal market traction, reflecting limited organized opposition or polling visibility at this stage.