Craig Hodge holds a modest edge in the Coquitlam mayoral market as the endorsed successor to retiring incumbent Richard Stewart, who stepped aside after 18 years and publicly backed the longtime city councillor in October 2025. Hodge’s platform emphasizes continuity on housing affordability, community amenities, cost management, and partnerships with senior governments, leveraging his 14 years on council and prior journalism background. The race remains competitive because nominations closed only on September 11, with the official campaign period beginning September 19 ahead of the October 17 first-past-the-post vote, allowing multiple challengers to enter late. Councillor Trish Mandewo declared her bid on September 1, while Madhavee Inamdar shifted from a council run to the mayoral contest in late August, highlighting transparency, inclusive growth, and diverse leadership. Absent public polling, trader pricing reflects name recognition, the open seat dynamics, and uncertainty over how late-campaign developments such as candidate forums or turnout patterns among growth-related voting blocs could shift support.