Canada: Anti-gay Toronto mayor Rob Ford’s brother running to succeed him
The brother of Toronto mayor Rob Ford is in the running to succeed him, after the anti-gay politician dropped his re-election bid over health concerns.
Earlier this year, Rob Ford – who was caught smoking crack cocaine, drink-driving and injecting heroin during his term of office –refused to join a standing ovation to praise the organisers of WorldPride Toronto, and voted against a council proposal to help homeless LGBT teens.
Mr Ford had refused to stand down or drop his re-election bid over the scandals – but withdrew earlier this week, after being hospitalised with a tumour.
It has since been confirmed that his brother Doug Ford will run in his place.
Doug Ford, who is already a city councillor, threw his hat into the ring just minutes before the final deadline for candidates.
Rob Ford said: “I’ve asked Doug to finish what we stated together, so that all we’ve accomplished isn’t washed away.
“I have asked Doug to run to become the next Mayor of Toronto because we need him. We cannot go backwards.”
Doug Ford added: “Today, I stand here with mixed emotions and a very heavy heart.
“[Rob] told me that he needed me to take the torch while he focuses on getting better.”
According to a Mainstreet poll, Doug Ford is currently polling in a distant third place, at just 16%, while businessman John Tory and councillor Olivia Chow have 45% and 27% respectively.
The Toronto Mayoral Election will take place on October 27.
