Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy has slammed a series of ‘robocalls’ to residents as a divisive approach reflecting the worst of American-style politics.
“I am aware that a series of automated phone calls [see transcript below] have been sent to Whitby residents over the past week. These calls contain misleading claims about me and about the work of Whitby Council and Durham Regional Council,” said Mayor Roy in a statement released yesterday.
“They also ask residents whether they would vote for me, or for Regional Councillor Chris Leahy, if an election were held tomorrow.
This is part of a concerning pattern of political conduct – one that I have repeatedly called out, she said.
“This disrespectful and divisive approach mirrors the worst of American-style politics, relying on outrage, distraction, and personal attacks rather than honest debate or constructive work, said Mayor Roy. “Sharing misinformation, intentionally or otherwise, erodes public trust and undermines the work of Whitby Council, town staff, and our community partners.
Council Commitment
She pointed out that it also stands in direct contrast to a commitment council made together only weeks ago.
“In October, every member of Whitby Council publicly endorsed the Elect Respect campaign, created by female elected leaders in Halton Region who are deeply concerned about the rise in harmful and disrespectful political tactics.
“The campaign calls on politicians to engage with integrity and respect. Specifically, Whitby Council members agreed to ‘reject and call out harassment, abuse, and personal attacks’ and ‘treat others with dignity and respect in all spaces, including public, private, and online’,” she said.
“These robocalls run directly against the spirit and purpose of that pledge – and I am calling out this behaviour,” she added.
Elections in 2026
The next municipal election is still a year away – election rules do not allow campaigning outside of the election period which commences in May 2026.
“Our responsibility is to focus on serving the people of Whitby, strengthening our community, and working together on the issues that matter. I remain committed to that work,” said Mayor Roy.
Robocall Transcription – Nov. 5, 2025
1) If the election for mayor of Whitby were held today, which candidate would you vote for? (Chris Leahy, Elizabeth Roy, Roger Gordon)
2) In an election for mayor of Whitby were held today, who would be your second choice?
3) How much blame do you associate with Elizabeth Roy for not voting to disclose details of the $54 million cost of renovating regional headquarters, which included $1 million on the controversial revolving door? (large amount, small amount, none, not sure)
4) How much blame do you associate with Elizabeth Roy for sitting on the board of directors of Elexicon and refusing to vote for reduced pay after losing $3.2 million in annual income for the Town of Whitby (large amount, small amount, none, not sure)
5) How much blame do you associate with Elizabeth Roy for supporting spending $13 million of tax dollars on property to house a homeless shelter, when that same property was valued at only $8 million five months earlier (large amount, small amount, none, not sure)
6) How much have you heard about Chris Leahy being reprimanded by the integrity commissioner for criticizing fellow councillors for racist treatment of one councillor with 65 hours of video evidence? (A lot, a little, none, not sure)
Statistical Questions
- Gender
- Age group
- Highest level of education
- Annual household income level
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