Ford says Toronto would be 'toast' if 'lefty' mayor elected, but won't rescind 'strong mayor' powers
'If a lefty mayor gets in there, God help the people of Toronto,' Ontario premier says
Ontario Premier Doug Ford voiced his support for Toronto Mayor John Tory Wednesday, saying if he follows through with his resignation and a "lefty" mayor gets elected, it would be "a disaster" for the city.
Ford, speaking in Brampton, Ont., after making an unrelated announcement, said Tory has been a "phenomenal partner" and it was not time to change the leadership of the city because everything was going "tickety-boo."
The premier said Toronto would be "toast" with a left wing mayor, but added he would not rescind the "strong mayor" powers granted by the provincial government no matter who gets elected.
"If a lefty mayor gets in there, God help the people of Toronto," he said.
Ford called Tory "the best thing we have in Toronto."
WATCH | Ontario will not rescind strong mayor powers if Tory resigns, Ford says:
The premier didn't directly comment on the reason Tory announced his resignation, saying what happens in the mayor's private life is "strictly up to the mayor and their family."
Tory, 68, dropped his bombshell resignation announcement Friday after admitting he had an "inappropriate relationship" with someone who used to work in his office.
Meanwhile, the city budget meeting Wednesday was suspended twice almost as soon as it began because of multiple disruptions from the gallery.
After a 45-minute recess shortly after the meeting started, Tory stepped up to the podium to deliver remarks only to be met by chants of "kick John Tory out the door," leading to a second recess.
The budget is the first Tory prepared under the new "strong mayor" powers.
The premier's support adds to the calls from some of Tory's council allies, who are pressing the mayor to stay on despite stating his intention to resign.
"Our recommendation is that he take some time off, wait for the integrity commissioner's report and then that will be tabled at council — we'll make a decision," said Coun. James Pasternak, speaking to reporters alongside Coun Frances Nunziata before Wednesday's meeting.
Coun. Gord Perks, a vocal critic of the mayor, said he must follow through with his resignation, saying Tory could not take a leave of absence from his responsibilities.
"He has to own it," Perks said.
Prime Minister Trudeau was also asked about his thoughts on Tory Wednesday.
Trudeau responded by saying he recognized Tory's years of service and called the mayor "a strong partner for us."
WATCH | Trudeau says Toronto mayor 'was a strong partner for us':
With files from CBC Toronto