Ford saga Friday

After what was likely the worst week of his political career, Toronto mayor Rob Ford took a bit of a break Friday, at least when it came to speaking with the media.  Many had expected Ford to announce that he would be stepping aside for at least a short while to deal with a drinking problem and ongoing crack-cocaine scandal.  But the Mayor did not many any announcement.   However, the radio station that aired “the city” which featured the Mayor and his brother Councillor Doug Ford announced that the show is now off the air.   For the very latest on these developments, Sean Leathong has the details from Toronto City Hall.

We began Friday morning with word that the Mayor would be taking a personal day, but like so many others this week, plans soon changed and a very different Rob Ford faced the media at his place of work. A humble looking Rob Ford tries to end his week quietly. He asked for privacy during this personal matter, a personal matter that in the past seven days has become very public. Friday there was more bad news. Fords radio show is no longer on the air. No word who’s decision it was to end it. As the Mayors supporters plead with him. Norm Kelly is the Toronto Deputy Mayor: “For the perception of good government here in Toronto, take a leave.”

Anthony Perruzza is a Toronto City Councillor: “I believe that it’s an important thing for him to do. For himself, and for his family.”

On Tuesday, the Mayor shocked the world with his stunning admission: “Yes, I have smoked crack cocaine.”

Amid calls for him to step down, later that day the Mayor said he would stay. But parts of that statement would haunt him almost immediately: “I have nothing left to hide.”

On Thursday, the Toronto Star purchased a video where an intoxicated Ford talks about killing someone. The context is not known, but the video fanned the media flames, and the Mayor was at a loss for words. “I was obviously very inebriated, I don’t know what to say.”

As he arrived at City Hall, the Mayor ignored questions from the media on word that he is considering treatment.

David Shiner is a Toronto City Councillor “He’s very depressed, and I’m concerned about that but I believe the fact that he’s acknowledged the problems, and he’s going to, I believe he’s going to be working on them I think will help with the situation.”

In the afternoon, the Mayor left his officer for a flu shot. And what would normally be a short walk back to his office became another chaotic chase with no word from the Mayor if he will take leave, and no sign of this story ending soon.

With no word that the Mayor will take a break, he is expected to be back here on Monday for a Remembrance Day ceremony. And Wednesday when council next meets, and two motions will be introduced aimed at curtailing his powers.