John Tory wants to be mayor — “Sorry Karen”

John Tory wants to be mayor. The talk show host on NewsTalk 1010 has told his fellow employees there that he will file his nomination papers for inclusion on the ballot Monday morning  (February 24, 2014). He does so on the same day that another candidate, former TTC Chair Karen Stintz, will file her papers. It might be coincidence, but it’s more likely scene stealing. The millionaire former cable executive, head of the Progressive Conservative Party and 2003 candidate for mayor, says he wants a livable city and a “new tone” at City Hall. The tone thing should be easy. The livable city seems like a rather vague wish for things that cost money, and which in the end may not be universally popular. We have to see what they are. Does John Tory, for example, think a roaring La Guardia style airport on the island will make Toronto more livable? The unlamented bridge to the island airport is generally thought to have been an issue in his defeat when he lost by 36,000 votes to David Miller eleven years ago. Miller ran an effective campaign against the airport. This time as well, Mr. Tory is talking about “congestion” — the devil or bogeyman of city life, depending on your view.  He wants to “get the shovels in the ground” for the so-called Yonge Relief Line. Tory says he also wants to keep taxes low, especially property taxes. He wants to have the city government work in a way that makes people proud.  He will have lots of time to say this to the face of mayor Rob Ford. “You can have the greatest plan in the world, but if you can’t get it through the city council because you’re not possessed of the right skills or determination to work with other people, well then, it won’t matter as much,” Mr.Tory told NewsTalk 1010.  The joker in the pack for many observers is Olivia Chow, the NDP MP for Trinity Spadina and widow of the late Jack Layton. Her benign expressions of love for Toronto and the lingering feelings of sympathy for the passing of Mr. Layton will be a potent force in the October general election if Ms. Chow decides to run.  Tonight Mayor Ford’s brother, Doug Ford, welcomed Mr. Tory to the race and in questioning by CP24 went on to suggest that the radio commentator isn’t really a Conservative and can’t make up his mind.