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137 days later, we’re back. Does anyone want to be Liberal leader? Doug Ford is standing by David Piccini, but Tories are divided on if — and how long — he can hold on. Is one cabinet minister about to bow out? But to start, here’s what the political crowd is watching for this fall session.
— Laryssa Waler, Premier Ford’s ex-communications director and the CEO of Henley Strategies, says the Tories will stick to their message, with Donald Trump front and centre this fall. Crime, red-tape reduction and help for industries bruised by the trade war will also top the to-do list.
“That’s what people care about, that’s what they’re worried about — and that’s what’s top of mind for the Premier too,” she says.
For Mitch Heimpel, an ex-chief and vice-president at Texture, last week’s Empire Club speech gave a peek at what will drive the Ford government this fall.
“I think he wants to protect highly trade-exposed sectors — and there’s interest in doing something about business taxes to spur innovation and growth,” says Heimpel. “If he can actually reduce the amount of permits and processes the government is responsible for, that will be a huge win for the economy.”
With Ford’s popularity holding steady, Waler isn’t convinced the Opposition will make much of a dent. “I don’t think they’re a challenge to the government,” she says. “They’re wildly ineffective and they have no idea what normal people think about or care about. Their idea of speaking about things that people are worried about is tweeting inaccuracies about a weekend in Paris when people are worried about their jobs.”
“Until the opposition figures it out, they’ll be lost in obscurity.”
— Erin Morrison, who worked for Jagmeet Singh and is a vice-president at Texture, says there’s been a clear recalibration in Marit Stiles’ tone post-leadership review — and it’ll show when she’s back in the House.
“She’s taken on a stronger tone,” says Morrison. “She’s a bit more herself, a bit less scripted. I think that’s going to work for her.”
Expect the focus, Morrison says, to be squarely on jobs — a message shaped by a summer listening tour. “Jobs, jobs, jobs. Nothing will get fixed for people without them. I think she used this break wisely — taking the time to refocus, sharpen her team and sharpen her approach. I think that’ll pay off.”
In the chamber, Stiles has two big opportunities: to look like a premier-in-waiting and make the most of a Liberal Party still searching for a leader.
“People are looking at Doug Ford’s progress and saying: ’You promised to deal with crime — it’s worse than ever. You promised to deal with jobs — we’re almost at 8 per cent unemployment.’ I think people will start to see folksiness as a bit of a fig leaf. He’s not getting the job done — and for Stiles, that means she has to ignore the noise and get to the heart of why life is hard for people right now.”
By grounding their message in day-to-day struggles, Morrison argues the Dippers can do what the Liberals can’t.
“The Liberals, yet again, are focused on themselves, focused on their infighting. That means they’re not talking about the 800,000 people without a job, the health-care wait times, the price of homes… I think there’s a huge opportunity for Marit Stiles, and I see her poised to take it.”
Speaking of which: Expect Stiles to come out sharper — and feistier — than usual in Question Period. “She knows how to get under Doug’s skin,” a plugged-in source said. “You can expect more of that — especially about the fact that he can’t seem to do anything about the job losses in this province.”
— Marcel Wieder, the president of Aurora Strategy Global, says we can expect the Liberals to slam a government too busy talking about Donald Trump.
“Whether it’s the hospital crisis they’ve ignored, the situation in our schools and universities, or the struggles in the automotive and manufacturing sectors, they’ve conveniently tried to sidestep it all with a $75-million campaign designed to distract people from their own faulty record,” says Weider.
In practice: The seasoned Liberal strategist says they’ll be driving an economic message. “The government is blowing past every goal — whether on the budget or housing. They continue to operate with low regard for taxpayers, and I think that’ll be a focus for the party.”
With a leadership race ahead — and some caucus members eyeing the top job — Wieder says unity isn’t optional. “We’re about to enter a leadership race that could fracture the party — and what’s important is that the Liberals come together… The main focus needs to be on keeping the government to account.”
Can they do it? Wieder thinks so. “We’ve got a strong bunch — pound for pound, they punch way above their weight.”
Read up: The Canadian Press has more on what is expected to be a “short but intense” fall session.
A message from Next Campaign:
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Watching Piccini — Can David Piccini hang on?
Those close to the labour minister — and Doug Ford himself — insist he’s safe. But behind the scenes, Tories are divided on whether he can hold on — and for how long.
137 days later, we’re back. Does anyone want to be Liberal leader? Doug Ford is standing by David Piccini, but Tories are divided on if — and how long — he can hold on. Is one cabinet minister about to bow out? But to start, here’s what the political crowd is watching for this fall session.
— Laryssa Waler, Premier Ford’s ex-communications director and the CEO of Henley Strategies, says the Tories will stick to their message, with Donald Trump front and centre this fall. Crime, red-tape reduction and help for industries bruised by the trade war will also top the to-do list.
“That’s what people care about, that’s what they’re worried about — and that’s what’s top of mind for the Premier too,” she says.
For Mitch Heimpel, an ex-chief and vice-president at Texture, last week’s Empire Club speech gave a peek at what will drive the Ford government this fall.
“I think he wants to protect highly trade-exposed sectors — and there’s interest in doing something about business taxes to spur innovation and growth,” says Heimpel. “If he can actually reduce the amount of permits and processes the government is responsible for, that will be a huge win for the economy.”
With Ford’s popularity holding steady, Waler isn’t convinced the Opposition will make much of a dent. “I don’t think they’re a challenge to the government,” she says. “They’re wildly ineffective and they have no idea what normal people think about or care about. Their idea of speaking about things that people are worried about is tweeting inaccuracies about a weekend in Paris when people are worried about their jobs.”
“Until the opposition figures it out, they’ll be lost in obscurity.”
— Erin Morrison, who worked for Jagmeet Singh and is a vice-president at Texture, says there’s been a clear recalibration in Marit Stiles’ tone post-leadership review — and it’ll show when she’s back in the House.
“She’s taken on a stronger tone,” says Morrison. “She’s a bit more herself, a bit less scripted. I think that’s going to work for her.”
Expect the focus, Morrison says, to be squarely on jobs — a message shaped by a summer listening tour. “Jobs, jobs, jobs. Nothing will get fixed for people without them. I think she used this break wisely — taking the time to refocus, sharpen her team and sharpen her approach. I think that’ll pay off.”
In the chamber, Stiles has two big opportunities: to look like a premier-in-waiting and make the most of a Liberal Party still searching for a leader.
“People are looking at Doug Ford’s progress and saying: ’You promised to deal with crime — it’s worse than ever. You promised to deal with jobs — we’re almost at 8 per cent unemployment.’ I think people will start to see folksiness as a bit of a fig leaf. He’s not getting the job done — and for Stiles, that means she has to ignore the noise and get to the heart of why life is hard for people right now.”
By grounding their message in day-to-day struggles, Morrison argues the Dippers can do what the Liberals can’t.
“The Liberals, yet again, are focused on themselves, focused on their infighting. That means they’re not talking about the 800,000 people without a job, the health-care wait times, the price of homes… I think there’s a huge opportunity for Marit Stiles, and I see her poised to take it.”
Speaking of which: Expect Stiles to come out sharper — and feistier — than usual in Question Period. “She knows how to get under Doug’s skin,” a plugged-in source said. “You can expect more of that — especially about the fact that he can’t seem to do anything about the job losses in this province.”
— Marcel Wieder, the president of Aurora Strategy Global, says we can expect the Liberals to slam a government too busy talking about Donald Trump.
“Whether it’s the hospital crisis they’ve ignored, the situation in our schools and universities, or the struggles in the automotive and manufacturing sectors, they’ve conveniently tried to sidestep it all with a $75-million campaign designed to distract people from their own faulty record,” says Weider.
In practice: The seasoned Liberal strategist says they’ll be driving an economic message. “The government is blowing past every goal — whether on the budget or housing. They continue to operate with low regard for taxpayers, and I think that’ll be a focus for the party.”
With a leadership race ahead — and some caucus members eyeing the top job — Wieder says unity isn’t optional. “We’re about to enter a leadership race that could fracture the party — and what’s important is that the Liberals come together… The main focus needs to be on keeping the government to account.”
Can they do it? Wieder thinks so. “We’ve got a strong bunch — pound for pound, they punch way above their weight.”
Read up: The Canadian Press has more on what is expected to be a “short but intense” fall session.
A message from Next Campaign:
Watching Piccini — Can David Piccini hang on?
Those close to the labour minister — and Doug Ford himself — insist he’s safe. But behind the scenes, Tories are divided on whether he can hold on — and for how long.
137 days later, we’re back. Does anyone want to be Liberal leader? Doug Ford is standing by David Piccini, but Tories are divided on if — and how long — he can hold on. Is one cabinet minister about to bow out? But to start, here’s what the political crowd is watching for this fall session.
— Laryssa Waler, Premier Ford’s ex-communications director and the CEO of Henley Strategies, says the Tories will stick to their message, with Donald Trump front and centre this fall. Crime, red-tape reduction and help for industries bruised by the trade war will also top the to-do list.
“That’s what people care about, that’s what they’re worried about — and that’s what’s top of mind for the Premier too,” she says.
For Mitch Heimpel, an ex-chief and vice-president at Texture, last week’s Empire Club speech gave a peek at what will drive the Ford government this fall.
“I think he wants to protect highly trade-exposed sectors — and there’s interest in doing something about business taxes to spur innovation and growth,” says Heimpel. “If he can actually reduce the amount of permits and processes the government is responsible for, that will be a huge win for the economy.”
With Ford’s popularity holding steady, Waler isn’t convinced the Opposition will make much of a dent. “I don’t think they’re a challenge to the government,” she says. “They’re wildly ineffective and they have no idea what normal people think about or care about. Their idea of speaking about things that people are worried about is tweeting inaccuracies about a weekend in Paris when people are worried about their jobs.”
“Until the opposition figures it out, they’ll be lost in obscurity.”
— Erin Morrison, who worked for Jagmeet Singh and is a vice-president at Texture, says there’s been a clear recalibration in Marit Stiles’ tone post-leadership review — and it’ll show when she’s back in the House.
“She’s taken on a stronger tone,” says Morrison. “She’s a bit more herself, a bit less scripted. I think that’s going to work for her.”
Expect the focus, Morrison says, to be squarely on jobs — a message shaped by a summer listening tour. “Jobs, jobs, jobs. Nothing will get fixed for people without them. I think she used this break wisely — taking the time to refocus, sharpen her team and sharpen her approach. I think that’ll pay off.”
In the chamber, Stiles has two big opportunities: to look like a premier-in-waiting and make the most of a Liberal Party still searching for a leader.
“People are looking at Doug Ford’s progress and saying: ’You promised to deal with crime — it’s worse than ever. You promised to deal with jobs — we’re almost at 8 per cent unemployment.’ I think people will start to see folksiness as a bit of a fig leaf. He’s not getting the job done — and for Stiles, that means she has to ignore the noise and get to the heart of why life is hard for people right now.”
By grounding their message in day-to-day struggles, Morrison argues the Dippers can do what the Liberals can’t.
“The Liberals, yet again, are focused on themselves, focused on their infighting. That means they’re not talking about the 800,000 people without a job, the health-care wait times, the price of homes… I think there’s a huge opportunity for Marit Stiles, and I see her poised to take it.”
Speaking of which: Expect Stiles to come out sharper — and feistier — than usual in Question Period. “She knows how to get under Doug’s skin,” a plugged-in source said. “You can expect more of that — especially about the fact that he can’t seem to do anything about the job losses in this province.”
— Marcel Wieder, the president of Aurora Strategy Global, says we can expect the Liberals to slam a government too busy talking about Donald Trump.
“Whether it’s the hospital crisis they’ve ignored, the situation in our schools and universities, or the struggles in the automotive and manufacturing sectors, they’ve conveniently tried to sidestep it all with a $75-million campaign designed to distract people from their own faulty record,” says Weider.
In practice: The seasoned Liberal strategist says they’ll be driving an economic message. “The government is blowing past every goal — whether on the budget or housing. They continue to operate with low regard for taxpayers, and I think that’ll be a focus for the party.”
With a leadership race ahead — and some caucus members eyeing the top job — Wieder says unity isn’t optional. “We’re about to enter a leadership race that could fracture the party — and what’s important is that the Liberals come together… The main focus needs to be on keeping the government to account.”
Can they do it? Wieder thinks so. “We’ve got a strong bunch — pound for pound, they punch way above their weight.”
Read up: The Canadian Press has more on what is expected to be a “short but intense” fall session.
A message from Next Campaign:
Watching Piccini — Can David Piccini hang on?
Those close to the labour minister — and Doug Ford himself — insist he’s safe. But behind the scenes, Tories are divided on whether he can hold on — and for how long.
Recall: Piccini has been buried under a wave of bad press. He’s facing questions about his cozy ties to lobbyists, how cash from the Skills Development Fund is being handed out, a trip to Paris and one controversial consultant — Mr. X — who says he got an early Greenbelt heads-up.
What Ford is saying: Publicly, Ford is still standing by him. By Friday, two days after the Star asked if Piccini still had the premier’s support, a spokesperson simply said “yes.”
What Ford isn’t saying: That response landed while speculation over a looming cabinet shake-up reached a fever pitch Friday. Privately, sources say Ford is frustrated the $2.5-billion fund has been dragged into controversy — and is ready to cut Piccini loose. “He’s on thin ice,” one well-placed Tory, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“There's no way Piccini can face the music [today],” a second source texted.
“The guy has worked in politics too long to make this many mistakes,” said one ex-staffer. “I don’t get it. It’s so foolish.”
For Piccini, it’s “full speed ahead,” a source close to him said, denying any bad blood with Ford. “He loves working for the people of Ontario,” the source added. “And we’re about to pass the Working for Workers Seven Act.”
Meanwhile, on retirement watch: Word on the street is that another cabinet minister could be on the way out. That is Neil Lumsden, who’s said to be mulling retirement.
Lumsden’s exit would trigger a vacancy in Hamilton East–Stoney Creek — a seat every party would be eager to snatch. Tories say it would be smart to call a by-election quickly, avoiding a challenge from a would-be Liberal leader in the riding.
Of course, rumour’s just that. A spokesperson for Lumsden didn’t respond to a request for comment.
— The House is back. 1. If you’re counting, it’s T-21 days until constituency week and T-57 until the winter wind-down.
— There’s a new seating plan in the chamber.
— No sign of Bonnie: Despite insisting she’ll stay on as interim leader, Bonnie Crombie has been MIA since September. Those around her say they’re not sure if she’ll stick around or pass the torch to someone in caucus (you just know John Fraser just sighed), only that she’s likely staying put “for the time being.”
As of now, according to a senior source: “She may be around here and there, but she’s not going to be front-facing. Caucus will be leading in the interim.”
Seen: Crombie has kept it low-key, though she posted a photo with her family on Thanksgiving.
— Committees are back, too. Here’s what’s ahead:
— Up at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, David Piccini and Graham McGregor will headline a $1,000-a-ticket fundraiser in Toronto. RSVP.
Also happening this week:
Save the date: Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria will speak at the Toronto Region Board of Trade on Thursday, October 30, followed by a sit-down with Giles Gherson. RSVP.
— Coming this week: The government will introduce a bill to boost worker mobility for health-care workers. Chris Glover will table a motion urging the government to create a new research grant for public colleges and universities studying AI governance and safety, while Marit Stiles has an Opposition Day motion lined up.
— Down on the South Lawn: At 10 a.m., Policing Free Schools will protest against Bill 33 (there’ll be a DJ). The Canadian Federation of Students is expected to join.
On Thursday at 9:30 a.m., the Ontario Public Service Employees Union is hosting a rally “to show the Ford government community and social services workers won’t stop until we get the wages and funding we deserve.”
On Saturday at 11:30 am, a “No To Hate; Everyone Belongs” rally is taking place.
Meanwhile: “Several parent groups against a looming speed camera ban in Ontario are holding a provincial day of action on Monday…” More from Canadian Press.
— Fall fun: Tomorrow at 5:30 p.m., it’s Oktoberfest in the East Hall. “Wear your finest Lederhosen or Dirndl. Beer tapping at 6 p.m.,” per the invite. Speaker Donna Skelly and Kitchener-Waterloo MPPs are co-hosting.
— The NDP has launched a new website to amp up pressure on the ex-PC MPP to quit. “It gives residents the opportunity to make their voice heard,” per the party. More from Soo Today.
— Follow the money: “The criteria used by the Ford government to hand out millions of dollars through its controversial Skills Development Fund remain a secret as a new Star analysis shows 17 unions and industry groups that endorsed the Progressive Conservatives in the February election received $237 million.” Read on from the Star.
Meanwhile: Global reports the Tories are facing questions over why one Ontario company — tied to a shortage of medical supplies for elderly and palliative care patients — received millions from the controversial fund.
— Mr. X is back: “The development consultant known as “Mr. X” is claiming that Ontario’s current labour minister gave him an early heads-up that the government would open up parts of the Greenbelt for development. A spokesperson for the minister denied the claim, calling it “categorically untrue and patently false.” The Trillium has the scoop.
— Speed bump: “Some municipalities still hope to convince Ford to change his mind, as their programs continue. Others are looking to recoup lost revenue from implementing the programs and lost ticket revenue.” The Star has more on how cities are scrambling to figure out what to do with their love-’em-or-hate-’em cameras.
— For the Tories: “The Conservative Party is pursuing changes to how it nominates candidates after widespread frustration over the process for the April federal election.” More from the Globe.
And Althia Raj writes an uprising could be brewing against federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.
That's in response to this op-ed by ex-Harper aide Dimitri Soudas, who argued Poilievre is “dismantling the principled, serious and credible Conservative party Harper worked so hard to lead and bring to power, one of substance, maturity and integrity.”
— CityNews reports that financial regulators “have hit two former mortgage agents with a combined total of $230,000 in administrative penalties for reckless conduct, failing to verify information and enabling fraud.”
— “A new clinical trial at Kingston Health Sciences Centre could mark a turning point in how anxiety is treated in Canada.” Global has more.
— Does Doug Ford want to be Ontario’s mayor? At least, that’s what The Globe’s editorial board says.
— Edward Keenan says if you’re appalled by the Home Depot story, you may never understand Ford’s appeal.
— John Michael McGrath argues there should be a Plan B for the province’s faltering auto sector.
— Humane Initiative’s Donna Power argues that Ford is “dodging accountability” amid an animal welfare crisis.
— Here’s how the NHL and reality TV explain “the implosion” of Team Canada, Shannon Proudfoot writes.
— Brian Lilley says Olivia Chow “needs to stop dancing, stop talking tacos, stop doing bat flips and calls to the Blue Jays and get to work turning this city around.”
— Over in Liberal land: A fresh poll by Relay Strategies found Toronto physician Andrew Boozary could give Doug Ford a real run for his money.
The poll, conducted online between October 10 to 13, surveyed 1,268 voters. To begin, respondents were given “photos, fulsome biographies and social media content” for each candidate: Boozary, Karina Gould and Nate Erskine-Smith.
Recall: Just before the leadership review in September, Relay was out with another poll — that time finding Boozary the “most exciting candidate,” ahead of Karina Gould and Mohamad Fakih.
Why it matters: It’s early, but the numbers hint that Boozary’s got room to break through. His narrow lead could point to growing hunger among voters for an outsider who can credibly challenge Ford’s populist brand.
Among Liberals, though, some are skeptical. “You could put the name of John Smith or Mickey Mouse and they’d score very high,” one said.
Some suspect Boozary, still a relative unknown, may have had a hand in commissioning the poll himself (Relay’s Kyla Ronellenfitsch says it was “self-funded” by her company). “This is most likely either people trying to convince him to run — or his own nascent campaign trying to scare people out of the field,” one Progressive Conservative texted.
A source close to Boozary denied it, insisting he had “absolutely nothing to do with it.”
The Tories, meanwhile, aren’t worried. One texted: “I think Ford would be wise to enlist his help — similar to what he did with Jane Philpott — to help solve homelessness. I think that would be a much better use of his skill and ability, and he’d move the needle further on the file he really cares about by working with the current government than trying to take them down on one social issue that doesn’t impact most of the electorate.”
Meet Team Boozary: Despite what you might’ve heard, ex-Bonnie Crombie advisor Tom Allison and Milton Chan aren’t involved with Boozary. Instead, Sharan Kaur and Derrick Araneda are among the early operatives advising the still-forming campaign.
Keep in mind: As we reported, though the physician is weighing a leadership bid, he’s also “being encouraged” to run for Mark Carney in University-Rosedale, where Chrystia Freeland is expected to step down. Marco Mendicino is also said to be interested in the seat.
Freeland’s next move? An ambassadorship, we’re told — though no one’s saying where just yet. Her resignation is expected following the November budget, part of a wider exodus in the Liberal benches.
As for Gould: Despite earlier indicating to allies she was out, sources say the ex-federal minister has formed an exploratory group led by John O’Leary. One source says her team has been holding weekly calls and sounding out support.
“There’s a group of people around her, but she’s not necessarily convinced,” said a second source.
ICYMI: A mystery website was fronted by a form asking: “Sign up if you think Karina should run for leader of the Ontario Liberal Party.” It’s since been deleted, but we grabbed a screenshot.
Political moves, career milestones, sightings? Send ‘em in.
— Seen: Prime Minister Mark Carney hanging out at Premier Ford’s home in Etobicoke. Ford at Trillium Health Partners’ Diwali Gala and later, hoodie on at Humber College. It was wig day for Adil Shamji and Stephanie Smythe:
A new piece by Norval Morrisseau has been installed outside The Star’s bureau.
— Noted: The New Leaf Liberals are now on X.
Speaking of which: The group, which organized to oust Bonnie Crombie, has more in the tank. They’re hosting a November meet-up at 3 Brasseurs in Ottawa, pitching it as a chance to “hang out, meet friends new and old, and help us chart the future of the party.”
More events are coming, we’re told, with plans to create space for leadership candidates to engage the grassroots outside the party’s machinery.
On the record: “We are excited about the opportunity to work collaboratively to advance the Ontario Liberal Party so that whoever wins the next leadership election, they are in a position to take the fight to Doug Ford with a party capable of winning,” a spokesperson said.
— Noted: The University of Toronto Mississauga Students’ Union (UTMSU) is throwing a “Doug Ford Costume Contest,” as part of an advocacy week on Bill 33.
Recall: Earlier this month, the union landed in hot water for hosting a vigil commemorating Palestinian “martyrs,” which one group described as “rubbing salt into the wounds of our Jewish learners, staff, faculty and alumni.” Catch up.
— Meanwhile, a coalition of Muslim Student Associations are denouncing Energy Minister Stephen Lecce for labelling one club a “morally degenerate group.” “... We stand in full support of the UTM MSA as they take the necessary steps to defend themselves from defamatory allegations,” they wrote.
— An ex-aide to Michael Kerzner was caught “warning an 18-year-old volunteer against setting up a campus Conservative club, while claiming to speak on behalf of the [federal] party,” per a recording leaked to Rebel.
— Hired: Max Correia is Doug Ford’s new Executive Director of Marketing and Public Opinion Research. Announcement.
Klaus Reif of Reif Estate Winery has been appointed to the Niagara College’s board.
Michael Kraljevic, the chair of the Ontario Land Tribunal, is set to be appointed to Humber College’s board.
Simon Wolle is the new CEO of B’nai Brith Canada.
— Say hello to this year’s OLIP class: Noor Akrawi, Keana Cavero, Geneva Fuina, Giuliana Iacobucci, David Landry, Bianca Morelli, Eve Parry, Kewan Perera, Emily Yinchang Shi and Shakthi Suthakaran. More.
— Hiring: The Ontario PC Fund is looking for a fundraising associate. It’s an “entry-level position… ideal for someone eager to gain hands-on experience in fundraising, donor relations and event coordination.”
Nolan Quinn is on the hunt for a new policy director. Jennifer French is looking for a legislative assistant. France Gélinas is looking for a constituency assistant. So too is Peggy Sattler.
The Ontario Association of Social Workers is searching for a CEO.
— Episode 4 of The Premier Files is out, feat. Ernie Eaves.
— Premiering tonight at 8 p.m.: TVO’s The Rundown, hosted by Jeyan Jeganathan. “Produced by the award-winning team behind The Agenda, The Rundown delivers the same journalistic integrity and depth — now in a faster-paced format.” Promo.
— Danielle Smith is set to appear on the Travis Dhanraj-Karman Wong podcast, “Can’t Be Censored.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. What’s on your radar this fall? Got a boss driving you up the wall? Are you actually running for Liberal leader? Hit reply and you’ll stay anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.
137 days later, we’re back. Does anyone want to be Liberal leader? Doug Ford is standing by David Piccini, but Tories are divided on if — and how long — he can hold on. Is one cabinet minister about to bow out? But to start, here’s what the political crowd is watching for this fall session.
— Laryssa Waler, Premier Ford’s ex-communications director and the CEO of Henley Strategies, says the Tories will stick to their message, with Donald Trump front and centre this fall. Crime, red-tape reduction and help for industries bruised by the trade war will also top the to-do list.
“That’s what people care about, that’s what they’re worried about — and that’s what’s top of mind for the Premier too,” she says.
For Mitch Heimpel, an ex-chief and vice-president at Texture, last week’s Empire Club speech gave a peek at what will drive the Ford government this fall.
“I think he wants to protect highly trade-exposed sectors — and there’s interest in doing something about business taxes to spur innovation and growth,” says Heimpel. “If he can actually reduce the amount of permits and processes the government is responsible for, that will be a huge win for the economy.”
With Ford’s popularity holding steady, Waler isn’t convinced the Opposition will make much of a dent. “I don’t think they’re a challenge to the government,” she says. “They’re wildly ineffective and they have no idea what normal people think about or care about. Their idea of speaking about things that people are worried about is tweeting inaccuracies about a weekend in Paris when people are worried about their jobs.”
“Until the opposition figures it out, they’ll be lost in obscurity.”
— Erin Morrison, who worked for Jagmeet Singh and is a vice-president at Texture, says there’s been a clear recalibration in Marit Stiles’ tone post-leadership review — and it’ll show when she’s back in the House.
“She’s taken on a stronger tone,” says Morrison. “She’s a bit more herself, a bit less scripted. I think that’s going to work for her.”
Expect the focus, Morrison says, to be squarely on jobs — a message shaped by a summer listening tour. “Jobs, jobs, jobs. Nothing will get fixed for people without them. I think she used this break wisely — taking the time to refocus, sharpen her team and sharpen her approach. I think that’ll pay off.”
In the chamber, Stiles has two big opportunities: to look like a premier-in-waiting and make the most of a Liberal Party still searching for a leader.
“People are looking at Doug Ford’s progress and saying: ’You promised to deal with crime — it’s worse than ever. You promised to deal with jobs — we’re almost at 8 per cent unemployment.’ I think people will start to see folksiness as a bit of a fig leaf. He’s not getting the job done — and for Stiles, that means she has to ignore the noise and get to the heart of why life is hard for people right now.”
By grounding their message in day-to-day struggles, Morrison argues the Dippers can do what the Liberals can’t.
“The Liberals, yet again, are focused on themselves, focused on their infighting. That means they’re not talking about the 800,000 people without a job, the health-care wait times, the price of homes… I think there’s a huge opportunity for Marit Stiles, and I see her poised to take it.”
Speaking of which: Expect Stiles to come out sharper — and feistier — than usual in Question Period. “She knows how to get under Doug’s skin,” a plugged-in source said. “You can expect more of that — especially about the fact that he can’t seem to do anything about the job losses in this province.”
— Marcel Wieder, the president of Aurora Strategy Global, says we can expect the Liberals to slam a government too busy talking about Donald Trump.
“Whether it’s the hospital crisis they’ve ignored, the situation in our schools and universities, or the struggles in the automotive and manufacturing sectors, they’ve conveniently tried to sidestep it all with a $75-million campaign designed to distract people from their own faulty record,” says Weider.
In practice: The seasoned Liberal strategist says they’ll be driving an economic message. “The government is blowing past every goal — whether on the budget or housing. They continue to operate with low regard for taxpayers, and I think that’ll be a focus for the party.”
With a leadership race ahead — and some caucus members eyeing the top job — Wieder says unity isn’t optional. “We’re about to enter a leadership race that could fracture the party — and what’s important is that the Liberals come together… The main focus needs to be on keeping the government to account.”
Can they do it? Wieder thinks so. “We’ve got a strong bunch — pound for pound, they punch way above their weight.”
Read up: The Canadian Press has more on what is expected to be a “short but intense” fall session.
A message from Next Campaign:
Watching Piccini — Can David Piccini hang on?
Those close to the labour minister — and Doug Ford himself — insist he’s safe. But behind the scenes, Tories are divided on whether he can hold on — and for how long.
Recall: Piccini has been buried under a wave of bad press. He’s facing questions about his cozy ties to lobbyists, how cash from the Skills Development Fund is being handed out, a trip to Paris and one controversial consultant — Mr. X — who says he got an early Greenbelt heads-up.
What Ford is saying: Publicly, Ford is still standing by him. By Friday, two days after the Star asked if Piccini still had the premier’s support, a spokesperson simply said “yes.”
What Ford isn’t saying: That response landed while speculation over a looming cabinet shake-up reached a fever pitch Friday. Privately, sources say Ford is frustrated the $2.5-billion fund has been dragged into controversy — and is ready to cut Piccini loose. “He’s on thin ice,” one well-placed Tory, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“There's no way Piccini can face the music [today],” a second source texted.
“The guy has worked in politics too long to make this many mistakes,” said one ex-staffer. “I don’t get it. It’s so foolish.”
For Piccini, it’s “full speed ahead,” a source close to him said, denying any bad blood with Ford. “He loves working for the people of Ontario,” the source added. “And we’re about to pass the Working for Workers Seven Act.”
Meanwhile, on retirement watch: Word on the street is that another cabinet minister could be on the way out. That is Neil Lumsden, who’s said to be mulling retirement.
Lumsden’s exit would trigger a vacancy in Hamilton East–Stoney Creek — a seat every party would be eager to snatch. Tories say it would be smart to call a by-election quickly, avoiding a challenge from a would-be Liberal leader in the riding.
Of course, rumour’s just that. A spokesperson for Lumsden didn’t respond to a request for comment.
— The House is back. 1. If you’re counting, it’s T-21 days until constituency week and T-57 until the winter wind-down.
— There’s a new seating plan in the chamber.
— No sign of Bonnie: Despite insisting she’ll stay on as interim leader, Bonnie Crombie has been MIA since September. Those around her say they’re not sure if she’ll stick around or pass the torch to someone in caucus (you just know John Fraser just sighed), only that she’s likely staying put “for the time being.”
As of now, according to a senior source: “She may be around here and there, but she’s not going to be front-facing. Caucus will be leading in the interim.”
Seen: Crombie has kept it low-key, though she posted a photo with her family on Thanksgiving.
— Committees are back, too. Here’s what’s ahead:
— Up at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, David Piccini and Graham McGregor will headline a $1,000-a-ticket fundraiser in Toronto. RSVP.
Also happening this week:
Save the date: Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria will speak at the Toronto Region Board of Trade on Thursday, October 30, followed by a sit-down with Giles Gherson. RSVP.
— Coming this week: The government will introduce a bill to boost worker mobility for health-care workers. Chris Glover will table a motion urging the government to create a new research grant for public colleges and universities studying AI governance and safety, while Marit Stiles has an Opposition Day motion lined up.
— Down on the South Lawn: At 10 a.m., Policing Free Schools will protest against Bill 33 (there’ll be a DJ). The Canadian Federation of Students is expected to join.
On Thursday at 9:30 a.m., the Ontario Public Service Employees Union is hosting a rally “to show the Ford government community and social services workers won’t stop until we get the wages and funding we deserve.”
On Saturday at 11:30 am, a “No To Hate; Everyone Belongs” rally is taking place.
Meanwhile: “Several parent groups against a looming speed camera ban in Ontario are holding a provincial day of action on Monday…” More from Canadian Press.
— Fall fun: Tomorrow at 5:30 p.m., it’s Oktoberfest in the East Hall. “Wear your finest Lederhosen or Dirndl. Beer tapping at 6 p.m.,” per the invite. Speaker Donna Skelly and Kitchener-Waterloo MPPs are co-hosting.
— The NDP has launched a new website to amp up pressure on the ex-PC MPP to quit. “It gives residents the opportunity to make their voice heard,” per the party. More from Soo Today.
— Follow the money: “The criteria used by the Ford government to hand out millions of dollars through its controversial Skills Development Fund remain a secret as a new Star analysis shows 17 unions and industry groups that endorsed the Progressive Conservatives in the February election received $237 million.” Read on from the Star.
Meanwhile: Global reports the Tories are facing questions over why one Ontario company — tied to a shortage of medical supplies for elderly and palliative care patients — received millions from the controversial fund.
— Mr. X is back: “The development consultant known as “Mr. X” is claiming that Ontario’s current labour minister gave him an early heads-up that the government would open up parts of the Greenbelt for development. A spokesperson for the minister denied the claim, calling it “categorically untrue and patently false.” The Trillium has the scoop.
— Speed bump: “Some municipalities still hope to convince Ford to change his mind, as their programs continue. Others are looking to recoup lost revenue from implementing the programs and lost ticket revenue.” The Star has more on how cities are scrambling to figure out what to do with their love-’em-or-hate-’em cameras.
— For the Tories: “The Conservative Party is pursuing changes to how it nominates candidates after widespread frustration over the process for the April federal election.” More from the Globe.
And Althia Raj writes an uprising could be brewing against federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.
That's in response to this op-ed by ex-Harper aide Dimitri Soudas, who argued Poilievre is “dismantling the principled, serious and credible Conservative party Harper worked so hard to lead and bring to power, one of substance, maturity and integrity.”
— CityNews reports that financial regulators “have hit two former mortgage agents with a combined total of $230,000 in administrative penalties for reckless conduct, failing to verify information and enabling fraud.”
— “A new clinical trial at Kingston Health Sciences Centre could mark a turning point in how anxiety is treated in Canada.” Global has more.
— Does Doug Ford want to be Ontario’s mayor? At least, that’s what The Globe’s editorial board says.
— Edward Keenan says if you’re appalled by the Home Depot story, you may never understand Ford’s appeal.
— John Michael McGrath argues there should be a Plan B for the province’s faltering auto sector.
— Humane Initiative’s Donna Power argues that Ford is “dodging accountability” amid an animal welfare crisis.
— Here’s how the NHL and reality TV explain “the implosion” of Team Canada, Shannon Proudfoot writes.
— Brian Lilley says Olivia Chow “needs to stop dancing, stop talking tacos, stop doing bat flips and calls to the Blue Jays and get to work turning this city around.”
— Over in Liberal land: A fresh poll by Relay Strategies found Toronto physician Andrew Boozary could give Doug Ford a real run for his money.
The poll, conducted online between October 10 to 13, surveyed 1,268 voters. To begin, respondents were given “photos, fulsome biographies and social media content” for each candidate: Boozary, Karina Gould and Nate Erskine-Smith.
Recall: Just before the leadership review in September, Relay was out with another poll — that time finding Boozary the “most exciting candidate,” ahead of Karina Gould and Mohamad Fakih.
Why it matters: It’s early, but the numbers hint that Boozary’s got room to break through. His narrow lead could point to growing hunger among voters for an outsider who can credibly challenge Ford’s populist brand.
Among Liberals, though, some are skeptical. “You could put the name of John Smith or Mickey Mouse and they’d score very high,” one said.
Some suspect Boozary, still a relative unknown, may have had a hand in commissioning the poll himself (Relay’s Kyla Ronellenfitsch says it was “self-funded” by her company). “This is most likely either people trying to convince him to run — or his own nascent campaign trying to scare people out of the field,” one Progressive Conservative texted.
A source close to Boozary denied it, insisting he had “absolutely nothing to do with it.”
The Tories, meanwhile, aren’t worried. One texted: “I think Ford would be wise to enlist his help — similar to what he did with Jane Philpott — to help solve homelessness. I think that would be a much better use of his skill and ability, and he’d move the needle further on the file he really cares about by working with the current government than trying to take them down on one social issue that doesn’t impact most of the electorate.”
Meet Team Boozary: Despite what you might’ve heard, ex-Bonnie Crombie advisor Tom Allison and Milton Chan aren’t involved with Boozary. Instead, Sharan Kaur and Derrick Araneda are among the early operatives advising the still-forming campaign.
Keep in mind: As we reported, though the physician is weighing a leadership bid, he’s also “being encouraged” to run for Mark Carney in University-Rosedale, where Chrystia Freeland is expected to step down. Marco Mendicino is also said to be interested in the seat.
Freeland’s next move? An ambassadorship, we’re told — though no one’s saying where just yet. Her resignation is expected following the November budget, part of a wider exodus in the Liberal benches.
As for Gould: Despite earlier indicating to allies she was out, sources say the ex-federal minister has formed an exploratory group led by John O’Leary. One source says her team has been holding weekly calls and sounding out support.
“There’s a group of people around her, but she’s not necessarily convinced,” said a second source.
ICYMI: A mystery website was fronted by a form asking: “Sign up if you think Karina should run for leader of the Ontario Liberal Party.” It’s since been deleted, but we grabbed a screenshot.
Political moves, career milestones, sightings? Send ‘em in.
— Seen: Prime Minister Mark Carney hanging out at Premier Ford’s home in Etobicoke. Ford at Trillium Health Partners’ Diwali Gala and later, hoodie on at Humber College. It was wig day for Adil Shamji and Stephanie Smythe:
A new piece by Norval Morrisseau has been installed outside The Star’s bureau.
— Noted: The New Leaf Liberals are now on X.
Speaking of which: The group, which organized to oust Bonnie Crombie, has more in the tank. They’re hosting a November meet-up at 3 Brasseurs in Ottawa, pitching it as a chance to “hang out, meet friends new and old, and help us chart the future of the party.”
More events are coming, we’re told, with plans to create space for leadership candidates to engage the grassroots outside the party’s machinery.
On the record: “We are excited about the opportunity to work collaboratively to advance the Ontario Liberal Party so that whoever wins the next leadership election, they are in a position to take the fight to Doug Ford with a party capable of winning,” a spokesperson said.
— Noted: The University of Toronto Mississauga Students’ Union (UTMSU) is throwing a “Doug Ford Costume Contest,” as part of an advocacy week on Bill 33.
Recall: Earlier this month, the union landed in hot water for hosting a vigil commemorating Palestinian “martyrs,” which one group described as “rubbing salt into the wounds of our Jewish learners, staff, faculty and alumni.” Catch up.
— Meanwhile, a coalition of Muslim Student Associations are denouncing Energy Minister Stephen Lecce for labelling one club a “morally degenerate group.” “... We stand in full support of the UTM MSA as they take the necessary steps to defend themselves from defamatory allegations,” they wrote.
— An ex-aide to Michael Kerzner was caught “warning an 18-year-old volunteer against setting up a campus Conservative club, while claiming to speak on behalf of the [federal] party,” per a recording leaked to Rebel.
— Hired: Max Correia is Doug Ford’s new Executive Director of Marketing and Public Opinion Research. Announcement.
Klaus Reif of Reif Estate Winery has been appointed to the Niagara College’s board.
Michael Kraljevic, the chair of the Ontario Land Tribunal, is set to be appointed to Humber College’s board.
Simon Wolle is the new CEO of B’nai Brith Canada.
— Say hello to this year’s OLIP class: Noor Akrawi, Keana Cavero, Geneva Fuina, Giuliana Iacobucci, David Landry, Bianca Morelli, Eve Parry, Kewan Perera, Emily Yinchang Shi and Shakthi Suthakaran. More.
— Hiring: The Ontario PC Fund is looking for a fundraising associate. It’s an “entry-level position… ideal for someone eager to gain hands-on experience in fundraising, donor relations and event coordination.”
Nolan Quinn is on the hunt for a new policy director. Jennifer French is looking for a legislative assistant. France Gélinas is looking for a constituency assistant. So too is Peggy Sattler.
The Ontario Association of Social Workers is searching for a CEO.
— Episode 4 of The Premier Files is out, feat. Ernie Eaves.
— Premiering tonight at 8 p.m.: TVO’s The Rundown, hosted by Jeyan Jeganathan. “Produced by the award-winning team behind The Agenda, The Rundown delivers the same journalistic integrity and depth — now in a faster-paced format.” Promo.
— Danielle Smith is set to appear on the Travis Dhanraj-Karman Wong podcast, “Can’t Be Censored.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. What’s on your radar this fall? Got a boss driving you up the wall? Are you actually running for Liberal leader? Hit reply and you’ll stay anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.
137 days later, we’re back. Does anyone want to be Liberal leader? Doug Ford is standing by David Piccini, but Tories are divided on if — and how long — he can hold on. Is one cabinet minister about to bow out? But to start, here’s what the political crowd is watching for this fall session.
— Laryssa Waler, Premier Ford’s ex-communications director and the CEO of Henley Strategies, says the Tories will stick to their message, with Donald Trump front and centre this fall. Crime, red-tape reduction and help for industries bruised by the trade war will also top the to-do list.
“That’s what people care about, that’s what they’re worried about — and that’s what’s top of mind for the Premier too,” she says.
For Mitch Heimpel, an ex-chief and vice-president at Texture, last week’s Empire Club speech gave a peek at what will drive the Ford government this fall.
“I think he wants to protect highly trade-exposed sectors — and there’s interest in doing something about business taxes to spur innovation and growth,” says Heimpel. “If he can actually reduce the amount of permits and processes the government is responsible for, that will be a huge win for the economy.”
With Ford’s popularity holding steady, Waler isn’t convinced the Opposition will make much of a dent. “I don’t think they’re a challenge to the government,” she says. “They’re wildly ineffective and they have no idea what normal people think about or care about. Their idea of speaking about things that people are worried about is tweeting inaccuracies about a weekend in Paris when people are worried about their jobs.”
“Until the opposition figures it out, they’ll be lost in obscurity.”
— Erin Morrison, who worked for Jagmeet Singh and is a vice-president at Texture, says there’s been a clear recalibration in Marit Stiles’ tone post-leadership review — and it’ll show when she’s back in the House.
“She’s taken on a stronger tone,” says Morrison. “She’s a bit more herself, a bit less scripted. I think that’s going to work for her.”
Expect the focus, Morrison says, to be squarely on jobs — a message shaped by a summer listening tour. “Jobs, jobs, jobs. Nothing will get fixed for people without them. I think she used this break wisely — taking the time to refocus, sharpen her team and sharpen her approach. I think that’ll pay off.”
In the chamber, Stiles has two big opportunities: to look like a premier-in-waiting and make the most of a Liberal Party still searching for a leader.
“People are looking at Doug Ford’s progress and saying: ’You promised to deal with crime — it’s worse than ever. You promised to deal with jobs — we’re almost at 8 per cent unemployment.’ I think people will start to see folksiness as a bit of a fig leaf. He’s not getting the job done — and for Stiles, that means she has to ignore the noise and get to the heart of why life is hard for people right now.”
By grounding their message in day-to-day struggles, Morrison argues the Dippers can do what the Liberals can’t.
“The Liberals, yet again, are focused on themselves, focused on their infighting. That means they’re not talking about the 800,000 people without a job, the health-care wait times, the price of homes… I think there’s a huge opportunity for Marit Stiles, and I see her poised to take it.”
Speaking of which: Expect Stiles to come out sharper — and feistier — than usual in Question Period. “She knows how to get under Doug’s skin,” a plugged-in source said. “You can expect more of that — especially about the fact that he can’t seem to do anything about the job losses in this province.”
— Marcel Wieder, the president of Aurora Strategy Global, says we can expect the Liberals to slam a government too busy talking about Donald Trump.
“Whether it’s the hospital crisis they’ve ignored, the situation in our schools and universities, or the struggles in the automotive and manufacturing sectors, they’ve conveniently tried to sidestep it all with a $75-million campaign designed to distract people from their own faulty record,” says Weider.
In practice: The seasoned Liberal strategist says they’ll be driving an economic message. “The government is blowing past every goal — whether on the budget or housing. They continue to operate with low regard for taxpayers, and I think that’ll be a focus for the party.”
With a leadership race ahead — and some caucus members eyeing the top job — Wieder says unity isn’t optional. “We’re about to enter a leadership race that could fracture the party — and what’s important is that the Liberals come together… The main focus needs to be on keeping the government to account.”
Can they do it? Wieder thinks so. “We’ve got a strong bunch — pound for pound, they punch way above their weight.”
Read up: The Canadian Press has more on what is expected to be a “short but intense” fall session.
A message from Next Campaign:
Watching Piccini — Can David Piccini hang on?
Those close to the labour minister — and Doug Ford himself — insist he’s safe. But behind the scenes, Tories are divided on whether he can hold on — and for how long.
Recall: Piccini has been buried under a wave of bad press. He’s facing questions about his cozy ties to lobbyists, how cash from the Skills Development Fund is being handed out, a trip to Paris and one controversial consultant — Mr. X — who says he got an early Greenbelt heads-up.
What Ford is saying: Publicly, Ford is still standing by him. By Friday, two days after the Star asked if Piccini still had the premier’s support, a spokesperson simply said “yes.”
What Ford isn’t saying: That response landed while speculation over a looming cabinet shake-up reached a fever pitch Friday. Privately, sources say Ford is frustrated the $2.5-billion fund has been dragged into controversy — and is ready to cut Piccini loose. “He’s on thin ice,” one well-placed Tory, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“There's no way Piccini can face the music [today],” a second source texted.
“The guy has worked in politics too long to make this many mistakes,” said one ex-staffer. “I don’t get it. It’s so foolish.”
For Piccini, it’s “full speed ahead,” a source close to him said, denying any bad blood with Ford. “He loves working for the people of Ontario,” the source added. “And we’re about to pass the Working for Workers Seven Act.”
Meanwhile, on retirement watch: Word on the street is that another cabinet minister could be on the way out. That is Neil Lumsden, who’s said to be mulling retirement.
Lumsden’s exit would trigger a vacancy in Hamilton East–Stoney Creek — a seat every party would be eager to snatch. Tories say it would be smart to call a by-election quickly, avoiding a challenge from a would-be Liberal leader in the riding.
Of course, rumour’s just that. A spokesperson for Lumsden didn’t respond to a request for comment.
— The House is back. 1. If you’re counting, it’s T-21 days until constituency week and T-57 until the winter wind-down.
— There’s a new seating plan in the chamber.
— No sign of Bonnie: Despite insisting she’ll stay on as interim leader, Bonnie Crombie has been MIA since September. Those around her say they’re not sure if she’ll stick around or pass the torch to someone in caucus (you just know John Fraser just sighed), only that she’s likely staying put “for the time being.”
As of now, according to a senior source: “She may be around here and there, but she’s not going to be front-facing. Caucus will be leading in the interim.”
Seen: Crombie has kept it low-key, though she posted a photo with her family on Thanksgiving.
— Committees are back, too. Here’s what’s ahead:
— Up at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, David Piccini and Graham McGregor will headline a $1,000-a-ticket fundraiser in Toronto. RSVP.
Also happening this week:
Save the date: Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria will speak at the Toronto Region Board of Trade on Thursday, October 30, followed by a sit-down with Giles Gherson. RSVP.
— Coming this week: The government will introduce a bill to boost worker mobility for health-care workers. Chris Glover will table a motion urging the government to create a new research grant for public colleges and universities studying AI governance and safety, while Marit Stiles has an Opposition Day motion lined up.
— Down on the South Lawn: At 10 a.m., Policing Free Schools will protest against Bill 33 (there’ll be a DJ). The Canadian Federation of Students is expected to join.
On Thursday at 9:30 a.m., the Ontario Public Service Employees Union is hosting a rally “to show the Ford government community and social services workers won’t stop until we get the wages and funding we deserve.”
On Saturday at 11:30 am, a “No To Hate; Everyone Belongs” rally is taking place.
Meanwhile: “Several parent groups against a looming speed camera ban in Ontario are holding a provincial day of action on Monday…” More from Canadian Press.
— Fall fun: Tomorrow at 5:30 p.m., it’s Oktoberfest in the East Hall. “Wear your finest Lederhosen or Dirndl. Beer tapping at 6 p.m.,” per the invite. Speaker Donna Skelly and Kitchener-Waterloo MPPs are co-hosting.
— The NDP has launched a new website to amp up pressure on the ex-PC MPP to quit. “It gives residents the opportunity to make their voice heard,” per the party. More from Soo Today.
— Follow the money: “The criteria used by the Ford government to hand out millions of dollars through its controversial Skills Development Fund remain a secret as a new Star analysis shows 17 unions and industry groups that endorsed the Progressive Conservatives in the February election received $237 million.” Read on from the Star.
Meanwhile: Global reports the Tories are facing questions over why one Ontario company — tied to a shortage of medical supplies for elderly and palliative care patients — received millions from the controversial fund.
— Mr. X is back: “The development consultant known as “Mr. X” is claiming that Ontario’s current labour minister gave him an early heads-up that the government would open up parts of the Greenbelt for development. A spokesperson for the minister denied the claim, calling it “categorically untrue and patently false.” The Trillium has the scoop.
— Speed bump: “Some municipalities still hope to convince Ford to change his mind, as their programs continue. Others are looking to recoup lost revenue from implementing the programs and lost ticket revenue.” The Star has more on how cities are scrambling to figure out what to do with their love-’em-or-hate-’em cameras.
— For the Tories: “The Conservative Party is pursuing changes to how it nominates candidates after widespread frustration over the process for the April federal election.” More from the Globe.
And Althia Raj writes an uprising could be brewing against federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.
That's in response to this op-ed by ex-Harper aide Dimitri Soudas, who argued Poilievre is “dismantling the principled, serious and credible Conservative party Harper worked so hard to lead and bring to power, one of substance, maturity and integrity.”
— CityNews reports that financial regulators “have hit two former mortgage agents with a combined total of $230,000 in administrative penalties for reckless conduct, failing to verify information and enabling fraud.”
— “A new clinical trial at Kingston Health Sciences Centre could mark a turning point in how anxiety is treated in Canada.” Global has more.
— Does Doug Ford want to be Ontario’s mayor? At least, that’s what The Globe’s editorial board says.
— Edward Keenan says if you’re appalled by the Home Depot story, you may never understand Ford’s appeal.
— John Michael McGrath argues there should be a Plan B for the province’s faltering auto sector.
— Humane Initiative’s Donna Power argues that Ford is “dodging accountability” amid an animal welfare crisis.
— Here’s how the NHL and reality TV explain “the implosion” of Team Canada, Shannon Proudfoot writes.
— Brian Lilley says Olivia Chow “needs to stop dancing, stop talking tacos, stop doing bat flips and calls to the Blue Jays and get to work turning this city around.”
— Over in Liberal land: A fresh poll by Relay Strategies found Toronto physician Andrew Boozary could give Doug Ford a real run for his money.
The poll, conducted online between October 10 to 13, surveyed 1,268 voters. To begin, respondents were given “photos, fulsome biographies and social media content” for each candidate: Boozary, Karina Gould and Nate Erskine-Smith.
Recall: Just before the leadership review in September, Relay was out with another poll — that time finding Boozary the “most exciting candidate,” ahead of Karina Gould and Mohamad Fakih.
Why it matters: It’s early, but the numbers hint that Boozary’s got room to break through. His narrow lead could point to growing hunger among voters for an outsider who can credibly challenge Ford’s populist brand.
Among Liberals, though, some are skeptical. “You could put the name of John Smith or Mickey Mouse and they’d score very high,” one said.
Some suspect Boozary, still a relative unknown, may have had a hand in commissioning the poll himself (Relay’s Kyla Ronellenfitsch says it was “self-funded” by her company). “This is most likely either people trying to convince him to run — or his own nascent campaign trying to scare people out of the field,” one Progressive Conservative texted.
A source close to Boozary denied it, insisting he had “absolutely nothing to do with it.”
The Tories, meanwhile, aren’t worried. One texted: “I think Ford would be wise to enlist his help — similar to what he did with Jane Philpott — to help solve homelessness. I think that would be a much better use of his skill and ability, and he’d move the needle further on the file he really cares about by working with the current government than trying to take them down on one social issue that doesn’t impact most of the electorate.”
Meet Team Boozary: Despite what you might’ve heard, ex-Bonnie Crombie advisor Tom Allison and Milton Chan aren’t involved with Boozary. Instead, Sharan Kaur and Derrick Araneda are among the early operatives advising the still-forming campaign.
Keep in mind: As we reported, though the physician is weighing a leadership bid, he’s also “being encouraged” to run for Mark Carney in University-Rosedale, where Chrystia Freeland is expected to step down. Marco Mendicino is also said to be interested in the seat.
Freeland’s next move? An ambassadorship, we’re told — though no one’s saying where just yet. Her resignation is expected following the November budget, part of a wider exodus in the Liberal benches.
As for Gould: Despite earlier indicating to allies she was out, sources say the ex-federal minister has formed an exploratory group led by John O’Leary. One source says her team has been holding weekly calls and sounding out support.
“There’s a group of people around her, but she’s not necessarily convinced,” said a second source.
ICYMI: A mystery website was fronted by a form asking: “Sign up if you think Karina should run for leader of the Ontario Liberal Party.” It’s since been deleted, but we grabbed a screenshot.
Political moves, career milestones, sightings? Send ‘em in.
— Seen: Prime Minister Mark Carney hanging out at Premier Ford’s home in Etobicoke. Ford at Trillium Health Partners’ Diwali Gala and later, hoodie on at Humber College. It was wig day for Adil Shamji and Stephanie Smythe:
A new piece by Norval Morrisseau has been installed outside The Star’s bureau.
— Noted: The New Leaf Liberals are now on X.
Speaking of which: The group, which organized to oust Bonnie Crombie, has more in the tank. They’re hosting a November meet-up at 3 Brasseurs in Ottawa, pitching it as a chance to “hang out, meet friends new and old, and help us chart the future of the party.”
More events are coming, we’re told, with plans to create space for leadership candidates to engage the grassroots outside the party’s machinery.
On the record: “We are excited about the opportunity to work collaboratively to advance the Ontario Liberal Party so that whoever wins the next leadership election, they are in a position to take the fight to Doug Ford with a party capable of winning,” a spokesperson said.
— Noted: The University of Toronto Mississauga Students’ Union (UTMSU) is throwing a “Doug Ford Costume Contest,” as part of an advocacy week on Bill 33.
Recall: Earlier this month, the union landed in hot water for hosting a vigil commemorating Palestinian “martyrs,” which one group described as “rubbing salt into the wounds of our Jewish learners, staff, faculty and alumni.” Catch up.
— Meanwhile, a coalition of Muslim Student Associations are denouncing Energy Minister Stephen Lecce for labelling one club a “morally degenerate group.” “... We stand in full support of the UTM MSA as they take the necessary steps to defend themselves from defamatory allegations,” they wrote.
— An ex-aide to Michael Kerzner was caught “warning an 18-year-old volunteer against setting up a campus Conservative club, while claiming to speak on behalf of the [federal] party,” per a recording leaked to Rebel.
— Hired: Max Correia is Doug Ford’s new Executive Director of Marketing and Public Opinion Research. Announcement.
Klaus Reif of Reif Estate Winery has been appointed to the Niagara College’s board.
Michael Kraljevic, the chair of the Ontario Land Tribunal, is set to be appointed to Humber College’s board.
Simon Wolle is the new CEO of B’nai Brith Canada.
— Say hello to this year’s OLIP class: Noor Akrawi, Keana Cavero, Geneva Fuina, Giuliana Iacobucci, David Landry, Bianca Morelli, Eve Parry, Kewan Perera, Emily Yinchang Shi and Shakthi Suthakaran. More.
— Hiring: The Ontario PC Fund is looking for a fundraising associate. It’s an “entry-level position… ideal for someone eager to gain hands-on experience in fundraising, donor relations and event coordination.”
Nolan Quinn is on the hunt for a new policy director. Jennifer French is looking for a legislative assistant. France Gélinas is looking for a constituency assistant. So too is Peggy Sattler.
The Ontario Association of Social Workers is searching for a CEO.
— Episode 4 of The Premier Files is out, feat. Ernie Eaves.
— Premiering tonight at 8 p.m.: TVO’s The Rundown, hosted by Jeyan Jeganathan. “Produced by the award-winning team behind The Agenda, The Rundown delivers the same journalistic integrity and depth — now in a faster-paced format.” Promo.
— Danielle Smith is set to appear on the Travis Dhanraj-Karman Wong podcast, “Can’t Be Censored.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. What’s on your radar this fall? Got a boss driving you up the wall? Are you actually running for Liberal leader? Hit reply and you’ll stay anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.
137 days later, we’re back. Does anyone want to be Liberal leader? Doug Ford is standing by David Piccini, but Tories are divided on if — and how long — he can hold on. Is one cabinet minister about to bow out? But to start, here’s what the political crowd is watching for this fall session.
— Laryssa Waler, Premier Ford’s ex-communications director and the CEO of Henley Strategies, says the Tories will stick to their message, with Donald Trump front and centre this fall. Crime, red-tape reduction and help for industries bruised by the trade war will also top the to-do list.
“That’s what people care about, that’s what they’re worried about — and that’s what’s top of mind for the Premier too,” she says.
For Mitch Heimpel, an ex-chief and vice-president at Texture, last week’s Empire Club speech gave a peek at what will drive the Ford government this fall.
“I think he wants to protect highly trade-exposed sectors — and there’s interest in doing something about business taxes to spur innovation and growth,” says Heimpel. “If he can actually reduce the amount of permits and processes the government is responsible for, that will be a huge win for the economy.”
With Ford’s popularity holding steady, Waler isn’t convinced the Opposition will make much of a dent. “I don’t think they’re a challenge to the government,” she says. “They’re wildly ineffective and they have no idea what normal people think about or care about. Their idea of speaking about things that people are worried about is tweeting inaccuracies about a weekend in Paris when people are worried about their jobs.”
“Until the opposition figures it out, they’ll be lost in obscurity.”
— Erin Morrison, who worked for Jagmeet Singh and is a vice-president at Texture, says there’s been a clear recalibration in Marit Stiles’ tone post-leadership review — and it’ll show when she’s back in the House.
“She’s taken on a stronger tone,” says Morrison. “She’s a bit more herself, a bit less scripted. I think that’s going to work for her.”
Expect the focus, Morrison says, to be squarely on jobs — a message shaped by a summer listening tour. “Jobs, jobs, jobs. Nothing will get fixed for people without them. I think she used this break wisely — taking the time to refocus, sharpen her team and sharpen her approach. I think that’ll pay off.”
In the chamber, Stiles has two big opportunities: to look like a premier-in-waiting and make the most of a Liberal Party still searching for a leader.
“People are looking at Doug Ford’s progress and saying: ’You promised to deal with crime — it’s worse than ever. You promised to deal with jobs — we’re almost at 8 per cent unemployment.’ I think people will start to see folksiness as a bit of a fig leaf. He’s not getting the job done — and for Stiles, that means she has to ignore the noise and get to the heart of why life is hard for people right now.”
By grounding their message in day-to-day struggles, Morrison argues the Dippers can do what the Liberals can’t.
“The Liberals, yet again, are focused on themselves, focused on their infighting. That means they’re not talking about the 800,000 people without a job, the health-care wait times, the price of homes… I think there’s a huge opportunity for Marit Stiles, and I see her poised to take it.”
Speaking of which: Expect Stiles to come out sharper — and feistier — than usual in Question Period. “She knows how to get under Doug’s skin,” a plugged-in source said. “You can expect more of that — especially about the fact that he can’t seem to do anything about the job losses in this province.”
— Marcel Wieder, the president of Aurora Strategy Global, says we can expect the Liberals to slam a government too busy talking about Donald Trump.
“Whether it’s the hospital crisis they’ve ignored, the situation in our schools and universities, or the struggles in the automotive and manufacturing sectors, they’ve conveniently tried to sidestep it all with a $75-million campaign designed to distract people from their own faulty record,” says Weider.
In practice: The seasoned Liberal strategist says they’ll be driving an economic message. “The government is blowing past every goal — whether on the budget or housing. They continue to operate with low regard for taxpayers, and I think that’ll be a focus for the party.”
With a leadership race ahead — and some caucus members eyeing the top job — Wieder says unity isn’t optional. “We’re about to enter a leadership race that could fracture the party — and what’s important is that the Liberals come together… The main focus needs to be on keeping the government to account.”
Can they do it? Wieder thinks so. “We’ve got a strong bunch — pound for pound, they punch way above their weight.”
Read up: The Canadian Press has more on what is expected to be a “short but intense” fall session.
A message from Next Campaign:
Watching Piccini — Can David Piccini hang on?
Those close to the labour minister — and Doug Ford himself — insist he’s safe. But behind the scenes, Tories are divided on whether he can hold on — and for how long.
Recall: Piccini has been buried under a wave of bad press. He’s facing questions about his cozy ties to lobbyists, how cash from the Skills Development Fund is being handed out, a trip to Paris and one controversial consultant — Mr. X — who says he got an early Greenbelt heads-up.
What Ford is saying: Publicly, Ford is still standing by him. By Friday, two days after the Star asked if Piccini still had the premier’s support, a spokesperson simply said “yes.”
What Ford isn’t saying: That response landed while speculation over a looming cabinet shake-up reached a fever pitch Friday. Privately, sources say Ford is frustrated the $2.5-billion fund has been dragged into controversy — and is ready to cut Piccini loose. “He’s on thin ice,” one well-placed Tory, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“There's no way Piccini can face the music [today],” a second source texted.
“The guy has worked in politics too long to make this many mistakes,” said one ex-staffer. “I don’t get it. It’s so foolish.”
For Piccini, it’s “full speed ahead,” a source close to him said, denying any bad blood with Ford. “He loves working for the people of Ontario,” the source added. “And we’re about to pass the Working for Workers Seven Act.”
Meanwhile, on retirement watch: Word on the street is that another cabinet minister could be on the way out. That is Neil Lumsden, who’s said to be mulling retirement.
Lumsden’s exit would trigger a vacancy in Hamilton East–Stoney Creek — a seat every party would be eager to snatch. Tories say it would be smart to call a by-election quickly, avoiding a challenge from a would-be Liberal leader in the riding.
Of course, rumour’s just that. A spokesperson for Lumsden didn’t respond to a request for comment.
— The House is back. 1. If you’re counting, it’s T-21 days until constituency week and T-57 until the winter wind-down.
— There’s a new seating plan in the chamber.
— No sign of Bonnie: Despite insisting she’ll stay on as interim leader, Bonnie Crombie has been MIA since September. Those around her say they’re not sure if she’ll stick around or pass the torch to someone in caucus (you just know John Fraser just sighed), only that she’s likely staying put “for the time being.”
As of now, according to a senior source: “She may be around here and there, but she’s not going to be front-facing. Caucus will be leading in the interim.”
Seen: Crombie has kept it low-key, though she posted a photo with her family on Thanksgiving.
— Committees are back, too. Here’s what’s ahead:
— Up at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, David Piccini and Graham McGregor will headline a $1,000-a-ticket fundraiser in Toronto. RSVP.
Also happening this week:
Save the date: Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria will speak at the Toronto Region Board of Trade on Thursday, October 30, followed by a sit-down with Giles Gherson. RSVP.
— Coming this week: The government will introduce a bill to boost worker mobility for health-care workers. Chris Glover will table a motion urging the government to create a new research grant for public colleges and universities studying AI governance and safety, while Marit Stiles has an Opposition Day motion lined up.
— Down on the South Lawn: At 10 a.m., Policing Free Schools will protest against Bill 33 (there’ll be a DJ). The Canadian Federation of Students is expected to join.
On Thursday at 9:30 a.m., the Ontario Public Service Employees Union is hosting a rally “to show the Ford government community and social services workers won’t stop until we get the wages and funding we deserve.”
On Saturday at 11:30 am, a “No To Hate; Everyone Belongs” rally is taking place.
Meanwhile: “Several parent groups against a looming speed camera ban in Ontario are holding a provincial day of action on Monday…” More from Canadian Press.
— Fall fun: Tomorrow at 5:30 p.m., it’s Oktoberfest in the East Hall. “Wear your finest Lederhosen or Dirndl. Beer tapping at 6 p.m.,” per the invite. Speaker Donna Skelly and Kitchener-Waterloo MPPs are co-hosting.
— The NDP has launched a new website to amp up pressure on the ex-PC MPP to quit. “It gives residents the opportunity to make their voice heard,” per the party. More from Soo Today.
— Follow the money: “The criteria used by the Ford government to hand out millions of dollars through its controversial Skills Development Fund remain a secret as a new Star analysis shows 17 unions and industry groups that endorsed the Progressive Conservatives in the February election received $237 million.” Read on from the Star.
Meanwhile: Global reports the Tories are facing questions over why one Ontario company — tied to a shortage of medical supplies for elderly and palliative care patients — received millions from the controversial fund.
— Mr. X is back: “The development consultant known as “Mr. X” is claiming that Ontario’s current labour minister gave him an early heads-up that the government would open up parts of the Greenbelt for development. A spokesperson for the minister denied the claim, calling it “categorically untrue and patently false.” The Trillium has the scoop.
— Speed bump: “Some municipalities still hope to convince Ford to change his mind, as their programs continue. Others are looking to recoup lost revenue from implementing the programs and lost ticket revenue.” The Star has more on how cities are scrambling to figure out what to do with their love-’em-or-hate-’em cameras.
— For the Tories: “The Conservative Party is pursuing changes to how it nominates candidates after widespread frustration over the process for the April federal election.” More from the Globe.
And Althia Raj writes an uprising could be brewing against federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.
That's in response to this op-ed by ex-Harper aide Dimitri Soudas, who argued Poilievre is “dismantling the principled, serious and credible Conservative party Harper worked so hard to lead and bring to power, one of substance, maturity and integrity.”
— CityNews reports that financial regulators “have hit two former mortgage agents with a combined total of $230,000 in administrative penalties for reckless conduct, failing to verify information and enabling fraud.”
— “A new clinical trial at Kingston Health Sciences Centre could mark a turning point in how anxiety is treated in Canada.” Global has more.
— Does Doug Ford want to be Ontario’s mayor? At least, that’s what The Globe’s editorial board says.
— Edward Keenan says if you’re appalled by the Home Depot story, you may never understand Ford’s appeal.
— John Michael McGrath argues there should be a Plan B for the province’s faltering auto sector.
— Humane Initiative’s Donna Power argues that Ford is “dodging accountability” amid an animal welfare crisis.
— Here’s how the NHL and reality TV explain “the implosion” of Team Canada, Shannon Proudfoot writes.
— Brian Lilley says Olivia Chow “needs to stop dancing, stop talking tacos, stop doing bat flips and calls to the Blue Jays and get to work turning this city around.”
— Over in Liberal land: A fresh poll by Relay Strategies found Toronto physician Andrew Boozary could give Doug Ford a real run for his money.
The poll, conducted online between October 10 to 13, surveyed 1,268 voters. To begin, respondents were given “photos, fulsome biographies and social media content” for each candidate: Boozary, Karina Gould and Nate Erskine-Smith.
Recall: Just before the leadership review in September, Relay was out with another poll — that time finding Boozary the “most exciting candidate,” ahead of Karina Gould and Mohamad Fakih.
Why it matters: It’s early, but the numbers hint that Boozary’s got room to break through. His narrow lead could point to growing hunger among voters for an outsider who can credibly challenge Ford’s populist brand.
Among Liberals, though, some are skeptical. “You could put the name of John Smith or Mickey Mouse and they’d score very high,” one said.
Some suspect Boozary, still a relative unknown, may have had a hand in commissioning the poll himself (Relay’s Kyla Ronellenfitsch says it was “self-funded” by her company). “This is most likely either people trying to convince him to run — or his own nascent campaign trying to scare people out of the field,” one Progressive Conservative texted.
A source close to Boozary denied it, insisting he had “absolutely nothing to do with it.”
The Tories, meanwhile, aren’t worried. One texted: “I think Ford would be wise to enlist his help — similar to what he did with Jane Philpott — to help solve homelessness. I think that would be a much better use of his skill and ability, and he’d move the needle further on the file he really cares about by working with the current government than trying to take them down on one social issue that doesn’t impact most of the electorate.”
Meet Team Boozary: Despite what you might’ve heard, ex-Bonnie Crombie advisor Tom Allison and Milton Chan aren’t involved with Boozary. Instead, Sharan Kaur and Derrick Araneda are among the early operatives advising the still-forming campaign.
Keep in mind: As we reported, though the physician is weighing a leadership bid, he’s also “being encouraged” to run for Mark Carney in University-Rosedale, where Chrystia Freeland is expected to step down. Marco Mendicino is also said to be interested in the seat.
Freeland’s next move? An ambassadorship, we’re told — though no one’s saying where just yet. Her resignation is expected following the November budget, part of a wider exodus in the Liberal benches.
As for Gould: Despite earlier indicating to allies she was out, sources say the ex-federal minister has formed an exploratory group led by John O’Leary. One source says her team has been holding weekly calls and sounding out support.
“There’s a group of people around her, but she’s not necessarily convinced,” said a second source.
ICYMI: A mystery website was fronted by a form asking: “Sign up if you think Karina should run for leader of the Ontario Liberal Party.” It’s since been deleted, but we grabbed a screenshot.
Political moves, career milestones, sightings? Send ‘em in.
— Seen: Prime Minister Mark Carney hanging out at Premier Ford’s home in Etobicoke. Ford at Trillium Health Partners’ Diwali Gala and later, hoodie on at Humber College. It was wig day for Adil Shamji and Stephanie Smythe:
A new piece by Norval Morrisseau has been installed outside The Star’s bureau.
— Noted: The New Leaf Liberals are now on X.
Speaking of which: The group, which organized to oust Bonnie Crombie, has more in the tank. They’re hosting a November meet-up at 3 Brasseurs in Ottawa, pitching it as a chance to “hang out, meet friends new and old, and help us chart the future of the party.”
More events are coming, we’re told, with plans to create space for leadership candidates to engage the grassroots outside the party’s machinery.
On the record: “We are excited about the opportunity to work collaboratively to advance the Ontario Liberal Party so that whoever wins the next leadership election, they are in a position to take the fight to Doug Ford with a party capable of winning,” a spokesperson said.
— Noted: The University of Toronto Mississauga Students’ Union (UTMSU) is throwing a “Doug Ford Costume Contest,” as part of an advocacy week on Bill 33.
Recall: Earlier this month, the union landed in hot water for hosting a vigil commemorating Palestinian “martyrs,” which one group described as “rubbing salt into the wounds of our Jewish learners, staff, faculty and alumni.” Catch up.
— Meanwhile, a coalition of Muslim Student Associations are denouncing Energy Minister Stephen Lecce for labelling one club a “morally degenerate group.” “... We stand in full support of the UTM MSA as they take the necessary steps to defend themselves from defamatory allegations,” they wrote.
— An ex-aide to Michael Kerzner was caught “warning an 18-year-old volunteer against setting up a campus Conservative club, while claiming to speak on behalf of the [federal] party,” per a recording leaked to Rebel.
— Hired: Max Correia is Doug Ford’s new Executive Director of Marketing and Public Opinion Research. Announcement.
Klaus Reif of Reif Estate Winery has been appointed to the Niagara College’s board.
Michael Kraljevic, the chair of the Ontario Land Tribunal, is set to be appointed to Humber College’s board.
Simon Wolle is the new CEO of B’nai Brith Canada.
— Say hello to this year’s OLIP class: Noor Akrawi, Keana Cavero, Geneva Fuina, Giuliana Iacobucci, David Landry, Bianca Morelli, Eve Parry, Kewan Perera, Emily Yinchang Shi and Shakthi Suthakaran. More.
— Hiring: The Ontario PC Fund is looking for a fundraising associate. It’s an “entry-level position… ideal for someone eager to gain hands-on experience in fundraising, donor relations and event coordination.”
Nolan Quinn is on the hunt for a new policy director. Jennifer French is looking for a legislative assistant. France Gélinas is looking for a constituency assistant. So too is Peggy Sattler.
The Ontario Association of Social Workers is searching for a CEO.
— Episode 4 of The Premier Files is out, feat. Ernie Eaves.
— Premiering tonight at 8 p.m.: TVO’s The Rundown, hosted by Jeyan Jeganathan. “Produced by the award-winning team behind The Agenda, The Rundown delivers the same journalistic integrity and depth — now in a faster-paced format.” Promo.
— Danielle Smith is set to appear on the Travis Dhanraj-Karman Wong podcast, “Can’t Be Censored.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. What’s on your radar this fall? Got a boss driving you up the wall? Are you actually running for Liberal leader? Hit reply and you’ll stay anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.
137 days later, we’re back. Does anyone want to be Liberal leader? Doug Ford is standing by David Piccini, but Tories are divided on if — and how long — he can hold on. Is one cabinet minister about to bow out? But to start, here’s what the political crowd is watching for this fall session.
— Laryssa Waler, Premier Ford’s ex-communications director and the CEO of Henley Strategies, says the Tories will stick to their message, with Donald Trump front and centre this fall. Crime, red-tape reduction and help for industries bruised by the trade war will also top the to-do list.
“That’s what people care about, that’s what they’re worried about — and that’s what’s top of mind for the Premier too,” she says.
For Mitch Heimpel, an ex-chief and vice-president at Texture, last week’s Empire Club speech gave a peek at what will drive the Ford government this fall.
“I think he wants to protect highly trade-exposed sectors — and there’s interest in doing something about business taxes to spur innovation and growth,” says Heimpel. “If he can actually reduce the amount of permits and processes the government is responsible for, that will be a huge win for the economy.”
With Ford’s popularity holding steady, Waler isn’t convinced the Opposition will make much of a dent. “I don’t think they’re a challenge to the government,” she says. “They’re wildly ineffective and they have no idea what normal people think about or care about. Their idea of speaking about things that people are worried about is tweeting inaccuracies about a weekend in Paris when people are worried about their jobs.”
“Until the opposition figures it out, they’ll be lost in obscurity.”
— Erin Morrison, who worked for Jagmeet Singh and is a vice-president at Texture, says there’s been a clear recalibration in Marit Stiles’ tone post-leadership review — and it’ll show when she’s back in the House.
“She’s taken on a stronger tone,” says Morrison. “She’s a bit more herself, a bit less scripted. I think that’s going to work for her.”
Expect the focus, Morrison says, to be squarely on jobs — a message shaped by a summer listening tour. “Jobs, jobs, jobs. Nothing will get fixed for people without them. I think she used this break wisely — taking the time to refocus, sharpen her team and sharpen her approach. I think that’ll pay off.”
In the chamber, Stiles has two big opportunities: to look like a premier-in-waiting and make the most of a Liberal Party still searching for a leader.
“People are looking at Doug Ford’s progress and saying: ’You promised to deal with crime — it’s worse than ever. You promised to deal with jobs — we’re almost at 8 per cent unemployment.’ I think people will start to see folksiness as a bit of a fig leaf. He’s not getting the job done — and for Stiles, that means she has to ignore the noise and get to the heart of why life is hard for people right now.”
By grounding their message in day-to-day struggles, Morrison argues the Dippers can do what the Liberals can’t.
“The Liberals, yet again, are focused on themselves, focused on their infighting. That means they’re not talking about the 800,000 people without a job, the health-care wait times, the price of homes… I think there’s a huge opportunity for Marit Stiles, and I see her poised to take it.”
Speaking of which: Expect Stiles to come out sharper — and feistier — than usual in Question Period. “She knows how to get under Doug’s skin,” a plugged-in source said. “You can expect more of that — especially about the fact that he can’t seem to do anything about the job losses in this province.”
— Marcel Wieder, the president of Aurora Strategy Global, says we can expect the Liberals to slam a government too busy talking about Donald Trump.
“Whether it’s the hospital crisis they’ve ignored, the situation in our schools and universities, or the struggles in the automotive and manufacturing sectors, they’ve conveniently tried to sidestep it all with a $75-million campaign designed to distract people from their own faulty record,” says Weider.
In practice: The seasoned Liberal strategist says they’ll be driving an economic message. “The government is blowing past every goal — whether on the budget or housing. They continue to operate with low regard for taxpayers, and I think that’ll be a focus for the party.”
With a leadership race ahead — and some caucus members eyeing the top job — Wieder says unity isn’t optional. “We’re about to enter a leadership race that could fracture the party — and what’s important is that the Liberals come together… The main focus needs to be on keeping the government to account.”
Can they do it? Wieder thinks so. “We’ve got a strong bunch — pound for pound, they punch way above their weight.”
Read up: The Canadian Press has more on what is expected to be a “short but intense” fall session.
A message from Next Campaign:
Watching Piccini — Can David Piccini hang on?
Those close to the labour minister — and Doug Ford himself — insist he’s safe. But behind the scenes, Tories are divided on whether he can hold on — and for how long.
Recall: Piccini has been buried under a wave of bad press. He’s facing questions about his cozy ties to lobbyists, how cash from the Skills Development Fund is being handed out, a trip to Paris and one controversial consultant — Mr. X — who says he got an early Greenbelt heads-up.
What Ford is saying: Publicly, Ford is still standing by him. By Friday, two days after the Star asked if Piccini still had the premier’s support, a spokesperson simply said “yes.”
What Ford isn’t saying: That response landed while speculation over a looming cabinet shake-up reached a fever pitch Friday. Privately, sources say Ford is frustrated the $2.5-billion fund has been dragged into controversy — and is ready to cut Piccini loose. “He’s on thin ice,” one well-placed Tory, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“There's no way Piccini can face the music [today],” a second source texted.
“The guy has worked in politics too long to make this many mistakes,” said one ex-staffer. “I don’t get it. It’s so foolish.”
For Piccini, it’s “full speed ahead,” a source close to him said, denying any bad blood with Ford. “He loves working for the people of Ontario,” the source added. “And we’re about to pass the Working for Workers Seven Act.”
Meanwhile, on retirement watch: Word on the street is that another cabinet minister could be on the way out. That is Neil Lumsden, who’s said to be mulling retirement.
Lumsden’s exit would trigger a vacancy in Hamilton East–Stoney Creek — a seat every party would be eager to snatch. Tories say it would be smart to call a by-election quickly, avoiding a challenge from a would-be Liberal leader in the riding.
Of course, rumour’s just that. A spokesperson for Lumsden didn’t respond to a request for comment.
— The House is back. 1. If you’re counting, it’s T-21 days until constituency week and T-57 until the winter wind-down.
— There’s a new seating plan in the chamber.
— No sign of Bonnie: Despite insisting she’ll stay on as interim leader, Bonnie Crombie has been MIA since September. Those around her say they’re not sure if she’ll stick around or pass the torch to someone in caucus (you just know John Fraser just sighed), only that she’s likely staying put “for the time being.”
As of now, according to a senior source: “She may be around here and there, but she’s not going to be front-facing. Caucus will be leading in the interim.”
Seen: Crombie has kept it low-key, though she posted a photo with her family on Thanksgiving.
— Committees are back, too. Here’s what’s ahead:
— Up at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, David Piccini and Graham McGregor will headline a $1,000-a-ticket fundraiser in Toronto. RSVP.
Also happening this week:
Save the date: Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria will speak at the Toronto Region Board of Trade on Thursday, October 30, followed by a sit-down with Giles Gherson. RSVP.
— Coming this week: The government will introduce a bill to boost worker mobility for health-care workers. Chris Glover will table a motion urging the government to create a new research grant for public colleges and universities studying AI governance and safety, while Marit Stiles has an Opposition Day motion lined up.
— Down on the South Lawn: At 10 a.m., Policing Free Schools will protest against Bill 33 (there’ll be a DJ). The Canadian Federation of Students is expected to join.
On Thursday at 9:30 a.m., the Ontario Public Service Employees Union is hosting a rally “to show the Ford government community and social services workers won’t stop until we get the wages and funding we deserve.”
On Saturday at 11:30 am, a “No To Hate; Everyone Belongs” rally is taking place.
Meanwhile: “Several parent groups against a looming speed camera ban in Ontario are holding a provincial day of action on Monday…” More from Canadian Press.
— Fall fun: Tomorrow at 5:30 p.m., it’s Oktoberfest in the East Hall. “Wear your finest Lederhosen or Dirndl. Beer tapping at 6 p.m.,” per the invite. Speaker Donna Skelly and Kitchener-Waterloo MPPs are co-hosting.
— The NDP has launched a new website to amp up pressure on the ex-PC MPP to quit. “It gives residents the opportunity to make their voice heard,” per the party. More from Soo Today.
— Follow the money: “The criteria used by the Ford government to hand out millions of dollars through its controversial Skills Development Fund remain a secret as a new Star analysis shows 17 unions and industry groups that endorsed the Progressive Conservatives in the February election received $237 million.” Read on from the Star.
Meanwhile: Global reports the Tories are facing questions over why one Ontario company — tied to a shortage of medical supplies for elderly and palliative care patients — received millions from the controversial fund.
— Mr. X is back: “The development consultant known as “Mr. X” is claiming that Ontario’s current labour minister gave him an early heads-up that the government would open up parts of the Greenbelt for development. A spokesperson for the minister denied the claim, calling it “categorically untrue and patently false.” The Trillium has the scoop.
— Speed bump: “Some municipalities still hope to convince Ford to change his mind, as their programs continue. Others are looking to recoup lost revenue from implementing the programs and lost ticket revenue.” The Star has more on how cities are scrambling to figure out what to do with their love-’em-or-hate-’em cameras.
— For the Tories: “The Conservative Party is pursuing changes to how it nominates candidates after widespread frustration over the process for the April federal election.” More from the Globe.
And Althia Raj writes an uprising could be brewing against federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.
That's in response to this op-ed by ex-Harper aide Dimitri Soudas, who argued Poilievre is “dismantling the principled, serious and credible Conservative party Harper worked so hard to lead and bring to power, one of substance, maturity and integrity.”
— CityNews reports that financial regulators “have hit two former mortgage agents with a combined total of $230,000 in administrative penalties for reckless conduct, failing to verify information and enabling fraud.”
— “A new clinical trial at Kingston Health Sciences Centre could mark a turning point in how anxiety is treated in Canada.” Global has more.
— Does Doug Ford want to be Ontario’s mayor? At least, that’s what The Globe’s editorial board says.
— Edward Keenan says if you’re appalled by the Home Depot story, you may never understand Ford’s appeal.
— John Michael McGrath argues there should be a Plan B for the province’s faltering auto sector.
— Humane Initiative’s Donna Power argues that Ford is “dodging accountability” amid an animal welfare crisis.
— Here’s how the NHL and reality TV explain “the implosion” of Team Canada, Shannon Proudfoot writes.
— Brian Lilley says Olivia Chow “needs to stop dancing, stop talking tacos, stop doing bat flips and calls to the Blue Jays and get to work turning this city around.”
— Over in Liberal land: A fresh poll by Relay Strategies found Toronto physician Andrew Boozary could give Doug Ford a real run for his money.
The poll, conducted online between October 10 to 13, surveyed 1,268 voters. To begin, respondents were given “photos, fulsome biographies and social media content” for each candidate: Boozary, Karina Gould and Nate Erskine-Smith.
Recall: Just before the leadership review in September, Relay was out with another poll — that time finding Boozary the “most exciting candidate,” ahead of Karina Gould and Mohamad Fakih.
Why it matters: It’s early, but the numbers hint that Boozary’s got room to break through. His narrow lead could point to growing hunger among voters for an outsider who can credibly challenge Ford’s populist brand.
Among Liberals, though, some are skeptical. “You could put the name of John Smith or Mickey Mouse and they’d score very high,” one said.
Some suspect Boozary, still a relative unknown, may have had a hand in commissioning the poll himself (Relay’s Kyla Ronellenfitsch says it was “self-funded” by her company). “This is most likely either people trying to convince him to run — or his own nascent campaign trying to scare people out of the field,” one Progressive Conservative texted.
A source close to Boozary denied it, insisting he had “absolutely nothing to do with it.”
The Tories, meanwhile, aren’t worried. One texted: “I think Ford would be wise to enlist his help — similar to what he did with Jane Philpott — to help solve homelessness. I think that would be a much better use of his skill and ability, and he’d move the needle further on the file he really cares about by working with the current government than trying to take them down on one social issue that doesn’t impact most of the electorate.”
Meet Team Boozary: Despite what you might’ve heard, ex-Bonnie Crombie advisor Tom Allison and Milton Chan aren’t involved with Boozary. Instead, Sharan Kaur and Derrick Araneda are among the early operatives advising the still-forming campaign.
Keep in mind: As we reported, though the physician is weighing a leadership bid, he’s also “being encouraged” to run for Mark Carney in University-Rosedale, where Chrystia Freeland is expected to step down. Marco Mendicino is also said to be interested in the seat.
Freeland’s next move? An ambassadorship, we’re told — though no one’s saying where just yet. Her resignation is expected following the November budget, part of a wider exodus in the Liberal benches.
As for Gould: Despite earlier indicating to allies she was out, sources say the ex-federal minister has formed an exploratory group led by John O’Leary. One source says her team has been holding weekly calls and sounding out support.
“There’s a group of people around her, but she’s not necessarily convinced,” said a second source.
ICYMI: A mystery website was fronted by a form asking: “Sign up if you think Karina should run for leader of the Ontario Liberal Party.” It’s since been deleted, but we grabbed a screenshot.
Political moves, career milestones, sightings? Send ‘em in.
— Seen: Prime Minister Mark Carney hanging out at Premier Ford’s home in Etobicoke. Ford at Trillium Health Partners’ Diwali Gala and later, hoodie on at Humber College. It was wig day for Adil Shamji and Stephanie Smythe:
A new piece by Norval Morrisseau has been installed outside The Star’s bureau.
— Noted: The New Leaf Liberals are now on X.
Speaking of which: The group, which organized to oust Bonnie Crombie, has more in the tank. They’re hosting a November meet-up at 3 Brasseurs in Ottawa, pitching it as a chance to “hang out, meet friends new and old, and help us chart the future of the party.”
More events are coming, we’re told, with plans to create space for leadership candidates to engage the grassroots outside the party’s machinery.
On the record: “We are excited about the opportunity to work collaboratively to advance the Ontario Liberal Party so that whoever wins the next leadership election, they are in a position to take the fight to Doug Ford with a party capable of winning,” a spokesperson said.
— Noted: The University of Toronto Mississauga Students’ Union (UTMSU) is throwing a “Doug Ford Costume Contest,” as part of an advocacy week on Bill 33.
Recall: Earlier this month, the union landed in hot water for hosting a vigil commemorating Palestinian “martyrs,” which one group described as “rubbing salt into the wounds of our Jewish learners, staff, faculty and alumni.” Catch up.
— Meanwhile, a coalition of Muslim Student Associations are denouncing Energy Minister Stephen Lecce for labelling one club a “morally degenerate group.” “... We stand in full support of the UTM MSA as they take the necessary steps to defend themselves from defamatory allegations,” they wrote.
— An ex-aide to Michael Kerzner was caught “warning an 18-year-old volunteer against setting up a campus Conservative club, while claiming to speak on behalf of the [federal] party,” per a recording leaked to Rebel.
— Hired: Max Correia is Doug Ford’s new Executive Director of Marketing and Public Opinion Research. Announcement.
Klaus Reif of Reif Estate Winery has been appointed to the Niagara College’s board.
Michael Kraljevic, the chair of the Ontario Land Tribunal, is set to be appointed to Humber College’s board.
Simon Wolle is the new CEO of B’nai Brith Canada.
— Say hello to this year’s OLIP class: Noor Akrawi, Keana Cavero, Geneva Fuina, Giuliana Iacobucci, David Landry, Bianca Morelli, Eve Parry, Kewan Perera, Emily Yinchang Shi and Shakthi Suthakaran. More.
— Hiring: The Ontario PC Fund is looking for a fundraising associate. It’s an “entry-level position… ideal for someone eager to gain hands-on experience in fundraising, donor relations and event coordination.”
Nolan Quinn is on the hunt for a new policy director. Jennifer French is looking for a legislative assistant. France Gélinas is looking for a constituency assistant. So too is Peggy Sattler.
The Ontario Association of Social Workers is searching for a CEO.
— Episode 4 of The Premier Files is out, feat. Ernie Eaves.
— Premiering tonight at 8 p.m.: TVO’s The Rundown, hosted by Jeyan Jeganathan. “Produced by the award-winning team behind The Agenda, The Rundown delivers the same journalistic integrity and depth — now in a faster-paced format.” Promo.
— Danielle Smith is set to appear on the Travis Dhanraj-Karman Wong podcast, “Can’t Be Censored.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. What’s on your radar this fall? Got a boss driving you up the wall? Are you actually running for Liberal leader? Hit reply and you’ll stay anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.
137 days later, we’re back. Does anyone want to be Liberal leader? Doug Ford is standing by David Piccini, but Tories are divided on if — and how long — he can hold on. Is one cabinet minister about to bow out? But to start, here’s what the political crowd is watching for this fall session.
— Laryssa Waler, Premier Ford’s ex-communications director and the CEO of Henley Strategies, says the Tories will stick to their message, with Donald Trump front and centre this fall. Crime, red-tape reduction and help for industries bruised by the trade war will also top the to-do list.
“That’s what people care about, that’s what they’re worried about — and that’s what’s top of mind for the Premier too,” she says.
For Mitch Heimpel, an ex-chief and vice-president at Texture, last week’s Empire Club speech gave a peek at what will drive the Ford government this fall.
“I think he wants to protect highly trade-exposed sectors — and there’s interest in doing something about business taxes to spur innovation and growth,” says Heimpel. “If he can actually reduce the amount of permits and processes the government is responsible for, that will be a huge win for the economy.”
With Ford’s popularity holding steady, Waler isn’t convinced the Opposition will make much of a dent. “I don’t think they’re a challenge to the government,” she says. “They’re wildly ineffective and they have no idea what normal people think about or care about. Their idea of speaking about things that people are worried about is tweeting inaccuracies about a weekend in Paris when people are worried about their jobs.”
“Until the opposition figures it out, they’ll be lost in obscurity.”
— Erin Morrison, who worked for Jagmeet Singh and is a vice-president at Texture, says there’s been a clear recalibration in Marit Stiles’ tone post-leadership review — and it’ll show when she’s back in the House.
“She’s taken on a stronger tone,” says Morrison. “She’s a bit more herself, a bit less scripted. I think that’s going to work for her.”
Expect the focus, Morrison says, to be squarely on jobs — a message shaped by a summer listening tour. “Jobs, jobs, jobs. Nothing will get fixed for people without them. I think she used this break wisely — taking the time to refocus, sharpen her team and sharpen her approach. I think that’ll pay off.”
In the chamber, Stiles has two big opportunities: to look like a premier-in-waiting and make the most of a Liberal Party still searching for a leader.
“People are looking at Doug Ford’s progress and saying: ’You promised to deal with crime — it’s worse than ever. You promised to deal with jobs — we’re almost at 8 per cent unemployment.’ I think people will start to see folksiness as a bit of a fig leaf. He’s not getting the job done — and for Stiles, that means she has to ignore the noise and get to the heart of why life is hard for people right now.”
By grounding their message in day-to-day struggles, Morrison argues the Dippers can do what the Liberals can’t.
“The Liberals, yet again, are focused on themselves, focused on their infighting. That means they’re not talking about the 800,000 people without a job, the health-care wait times, the price of homes… I think there’s a huge opportunity for Marit Stiles, and I see her poised to take it.”
Speaking of which: Expect Stiles to come out sharper — and feistier — than usual in Question Period. “She knows how to get under Doug’s skin,” a plugged-in source said. “You can expect more of that — especially about the fact that he can’t seem to do anything about the job losses in this province.”
— Marcel Wieder, the president of Aurora Strategy Global, says we can expect the Liberals to slam a government too busy talking about Donald Trump.
“Whether it’s the hospital crisis they’ve ignored, the situation in our schools and universities, or the struggles in the automotive and manufacturing sectors, they’ve conveniently tried to sidestep it all with a $75-million campaign designed to distract people from their own faulty record,” says Weider.
In practice: The seasoned Liberal strategist says they’ll be driving an economic message. “The government is blowing past every goal — whether on the budget or housing. They continue to operate with low regard for taxpayers, and I think that’ll be a focus for the party.”
With a leadership race ahead — and some caucus members eyeing the top job — Wieder says unity isn’t optional. “We’re about to enter a leadership race that could fracture the party — and what’s important is that the Liberals come together… The main focus needs to be on keeping the government to account.”
Can they do it? Wieder thinks so. “We’ve got a strong bunch — pound for pound, they punch way above their weight.”
Read up: The Canadian Press has more on what is expected to be a “short but intense” fall session.
A message from Next Campaign:
Watching Piccini — Can David Piccini hang on?
Those close to the labour minister — and Doug Ford himself — insist he’s safe. But behind the scenes, Tories are divided on whether he can hold on — and for how long.
Recall: Piccini has been buried under a wave of bad press. He’s facing questions about his cozy ties to lobbyists, how cash from the Skills Development Fund is being handed out, a trip to Paris and one controversial consultant — Mr. X — who says he got an early Greenbelt heads-up.
What Ford is saying: Publicly, Ford is still standing by him. By Friday, two days after the Star asked if Piccini still had the premier’s support, a spokesperson simply said “yes.”
What Ford isn’t saying: That response landed while speculation over a looming cabinet shake-up reached a fever pitch Friday. Privately, sources say Ford is frustrated the $2.5-billion fund has been dragged into controversy — and is ready to cut Piccini loose. “He’s on thin ice,” one well-placed Tory, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“There's no way Piccini can face the music [today],” a second source texted.
“The guy has worked in politics too long to make this many mistakes,” said one ex-staffer. “I don’t get it. It’s so foolish.”
For Piccini, it’s “full speed ahead,” a source close to him said, denying any bad blood with Ford. “He loves working for the people of Ontario,” the source added. “And we’re about to pass the Working for Workers Seven Act.”
Meanwhile, on retirement watch: Word on the street is that another cabinet minister could be on the way out. That is Neil Lumsden, who’s said to be mulling retirement.
Lumsden’s exit would trigger a vacancy in Hamilton East–Stoney Creek — a seat every party would be eager to snatch. Tories say it would be smart to call a by-election quickly, avoiding a challenge from a would-be Liberal leader in the riding.
Of course, rumour’s just that. A spokesperson for Lumsden didn’t respond to a request for comment.
— The House is back. 1. If you’re counting, it’s T-21 days until constituency week and T-57 until the winter wind-down.
— There’s a new seating plan in the chamber.
— No sign of Bonnie: Despite insisting she’ll stay on as interim leader, Bonnie Crombie has been MIA since September. Those around her say they’re not sure if she’ll stick around or pass the torch to someone in caucus (you just know John Fraser just sighed), only that she’s likely staying put “for the time being.”
As of now, according to a senior source: “She may be around here and there, but she’s not going to be front-facing. Caucus will be leading in the interim.”
Seen: Crombie has kept it low-key, though she posted a photo with her family on Thanksgiving.
— Committees are back, too. Here’s what’s ahead:
— Up at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, David Piccini and Graham McGregor will headline a $1,000-a-ticket fundraiser in Toronto. RSVP.
Also happening this week:
Save the date: Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria will speak at the Toronto Region Board of Trade on Thursday, October 30, followed by a sit-down with Giles Gherson. RSVP.
— Coming this week: The government will introduce a bill to boost worker mobility for health-care workers. Chris Glover will table a motion urging the government to create a new research grant for public colleges and universities studying AI governance and safety, while Marit Stiles has an Opposition Day motion lined up.
— Down on the South Lawn: At 10 a.m., Policing Free Schools will protest against Bill 33 (there’ll be a DJ). The Canadian Federation of Students is expected to join.
On Thursday at 9:30 a.m., the Ontario Public Service Employees Union is hosting a rally “to show the Ford government community and social services workers won’t stop until we get the wages and funding we deserve.”
On Saturday at 11:30 am, a “No To Hate; Everyone Belongs” rally is taking place.
Meanwhile: “Several parent groups against a looming speed camera ban in Ontario are holding a provincial day of action on Monday…” More from Canadian Press.
— Fall fun: Tomorrow at 5:30 p.m., it’s Oktoberfest in the East Hall. “Wear your finest Lederhosen or Dirndl. Beer tapping at 6 p.m.,” per the invite. Speaker Donna Skelly and Kitchener-Waterloo MPPs are co-hosting.
— The NDP has launched a new website to amp up pressure on the ex-PC MPP to quit. “It gives residents the opportunity to make their voice heard,” per the party. More from Soo Today.
— Follow the money: “The criteria used by the Ford government to hand out millions of dollars through its controversial Skills Development Fund remain a secret as a new Star analysis shows 17 unions and industry groups that endorsed the Progressive Conservatives in the February election received $237 million.” Read on from the Star.
Meanwhile: Global reports the Tories are facing questions over why one Ontario company — tied to a shortage of medical supplies for elderly and palliative care patients — received millions from the controversial fund.
— Mr. X is back: “The development consultant known as “Mr. X” is claiming that Ontario’s current labour minister gave him an early heads-up that the government would open up parts of the Greenbelt for development. A spokesperson for the minister denied the claim, calling it “categorically untrue and patently false.” The Trillium has the scoop.
— Speed bump: “Some municipalities still hope to convince Ford to change his mind, as their programs continue. Others are looking to recoup lost revenue from implementing the programs and lost ticket revenue.” The Star has more on how cities are scrambling to figure out what to do with their love-’em-or-hate-’em cameras.
— For the Tories: “The Conservative Party is pursuing changes to how it nominates candidates after widespread frustration over the process for the April federal election.” More from the Globe.
And Althia Raj writes an uprising could be brewing against federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.
That's in response to this op-ed by ex-Harper aide Dimitri Soudas, who argued Poilievre is “dismantling the principled, serious and credible Conservative party Harper worked so hard to lead and bring to power, one of substance, maturity and integrity.”
— CityNews reports that financial regulators “have hit two former mortgage agents with a combined total of $230,000 in administrative penalties for reckless conduct, failing to verify information and enabling fraud.”
— “A new clinical trial at Kingston Health Sciences Centre could mark a turning point in how anxiety is treated in Canada.” Global has more.
— Does Doug Ford want to be Ontario’s mayor? At least, that’s what The Globe’s editorial board says.
— Edward Keenan says if you’re appalled by the Home Depot story, you may never understand Ford’s appeal.
— John Michael McGrath argues there should be a Plan B for the province’s faltering auto sector.
— Humane Initiative’s Donna Power argues that Ford is “dodging accountability” amid an animal welfare crisis.
— Here’s how the NHL and reality TV explain “the implosion” of Team Canada, Shannon Proudfoot writes.
— Brian Lilley says Olivia Chow “needs to stop dancing, stop talking tacos, stop doing bat flips and calls to the Blue Jays and get to work turning this city around.”
— Over in Liberal land: A fresh poll by Relay Strategies found Toronto physician Andrew Boozary could give Doug Ford a real run for his money.
The poll, conducted online between October 10 to 13, surveyed 1,268 voters. To begin, respondents were given “photos, fulsome biographies and social media content” for each candidate: Boozary, Karina Gould and Nate Erskine-Smith.
Recall: Just before the leadership review in September, Relay was out with another poll — that time finding Boozary the “most exciting candidate,” ahead of Karina Gould and Mohamad Fakih.
Why it matters: It’s early, but the numbers hint that Boozary’s got room to break through. His narrow lead could point to growing hunger among voters for an outsider who can credibly challenge Ford’s populist brand.
Among Liberals, though, some are skeptical. “You could put the name of John Smith or Mickey Mouse and they’d score very high,” one said.
Some suspect Boozary, still a relative unknown, may have had a hand in commissioning the poll himself (Relay’s Kyla Ronellenfitsch says it was “self-funded” by her company). “This is most likely either people trying to convince him to run — or his own nascent campaign trying to scare people out of the field,” one Progressive Conservative texted.
A source close to Boozary denied it, insisting he had “absolutely nothing to do with it.”
The Tories, meanwhile, aren’t worried. One texted: “I think Ford would be wise to enlist his help — similar to what he did with Jane Philpott — to help solve homelessness. I think that would be a much better use of his skill and ability, and he’d move the needle further on the file he really cares about by working with the current government than trying to take them down on one social issue that doesn’t impact most of the electorate.”
Meet Team Boozary: Despite what you might’ve heard, ex-Bonnie Crombie advisor Tom Allison and Milton Chan aren’t involved with Boozary. Instead, Sharan Kaur and Derrick Araneda are among the early operatives advising the still-forming campaign.
Keep in mind: As we reported, though the physician is weighing a leadership bid, he’s also “being encouraged” to run for Mark Carney in University-Rosedale, where Chrystia Freeland is expected to step down. Marco Mendicino is also said to be interested in the seat.
Freeland’s next move? An ambassadorship, we’re told — though no one’s saying where just yet. Her resignation is expected following the November budget, part of a wider exodus in the Liberal benches.
As for Gould: Despite earlier indicating to allies she was out, sources say the ex-federal minister has formed an exploratory group led by John O’Leary. One source says her team has been holding weekly calls and sounding out support.
“There’s a group of people around her, but she’s not necessarily convinced,” said a second source.
ICYMI: A mystery website was fronted by a form asking: “Sign up if you think Karina should run for leader of the Ontario Liberal Party.” It’s since been deleted, but we grabbed a screenshot.
Political moves, career milestones, sightings? Send ‘em in.
— Seen: Prime Minister Mark Carney hanging out at Premier Ford’s home in Etobicoke. Ford at Trillium Health Partners’ Diwali Gala and later, hoodie on at Humber College. It was wig day for Adil Shamji and Stephanie Smythe:
A new piece by Norval Morrisseau has been installed outside The Star’s bureau.
— Noted: The New Leaf Liberals are now on X.
Speaking of which: The group, which organized to oust Bonnie Crombie, has more in the tank. They’re hosting a November meet-up at 3 Brasseurs in Ottawa, pitching it as a chance to “hang out, meet friends new and old, and help us chart the future of the party.”
More events are coming, we’re told, with plans to create space for leadership candidates to engage the grassroots outside the party’s machinery.
On the record: “We are excited about the opportunity to work collaboratively to advance the Ontario Liberal Party so that whoever wins the next leadership election, they are in a position to take the fight to Doug Ford with a party capable of winning,” a spokesperson said.
— Noted: The University of Toronto Mississauga Students’ Union (UTMSU) is throwing a “Doug Ford Costume Contest,” as part of an advocacy week on Bill 33.
Recall: Earlier this month, the union landed in hot water for hosting a vigil commemorating Palestinian “martyrs,” which one group described as “rubbing salt into the wounds of our Jewish learners, staff, faculty and alumni.” Catch up.
— Meanwhile, a coalition of Muslim Student Associations are denouncing Energy Minister Stephen Lecce for labelling one club a “morally degenerate group.” “... We stand in full support of the UTM MSA as they take the necessary steps to defend themselves from defamatory allegations,” they wrote.
— An ex-aide to Michael Kerzner was caught “warning an 18-year-old volunteer against setting up a campus Conservative club, while claiming to speak on behalf of the [federal] party,” per a recording leaked to Rebel.
— Hired: Max Correia is Doug Ford’s new Executive Director of Marketing and Public Opinion Research. Announcement.
Klaus Reif of Reif Estate Winery has been appointed to the Niagara College’s board.
Michael Kraljevic, the chair of the Ontario Land Tribunal, is set to be appointed to Humber College’s board.
Simon Wolle is the new CEO of B’nai Brith Canada.
— Say hello to this year’s OLIP class: Noor Akrawi, Keana Cavero, Geneva Fuina, Giuliana Iacobucci, David Landry, Bianca Morelli, Eve Parry, Kewan Perera, Emily Yinchang Shi and Shakthi Suthakaran. More.
— Hiring: The Ontario PC Fund is looking for a fundraising associate. It’s an “entry-level position… ideal for someone eager to gain hands-on experience in fundraising, donor relations and event coordination.”
Nolan Quinn is on the hunt for a new policy director. Jennifer French is looking for a legislative assistant. France Gélinas is looking for a constituency assistant. So too is Peggy Sattler.
The Ontario Association of Social Workers is searching for a CEO.
— Episode 4 of The Premier Files is out, feat. Ernie Eaves.
— Premiering tonight at 8 p.m.: TVO’s The Rundown, hosted by Jeyan Jeganathan. “Produced by the award-winning team behind The Agenda, The Rundown delivers the same journalistic integrity and depth — now in a faster-paced format.” Promo.
— Danielle Smith is set to appear on the Travis Dhanraj-Karman Wong podcast, “Can’t Be Censored.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. What’s on your radar this fall? Got a boss driving you up the wall? Are you actually running for Liberal leader? Hit reply and you’ll stay anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.
137 days later, we’re back. Does anyone want to be Liberal leader? Doug Ford is standing by David Piccini, but Tories are divided on if — and how long — he can hold on. Is one cabinet minister about to bow out? But to start, here’s what the political crowd is watching for this fall session.
— Laryssa Waler, Premier Ford’s ex-communications director and the CEO of Henley Strategies, says the Tories will stick to their message, with Donald Trump front and centre this fall. Crime, red-tape reduction and help for industries bruised by the trade war will also top the to-do list.
“That’s what people care about, that’s what they’re worried about — and that’s what’s top of mind for the Premier too,” she says.
For Mitch Heimpel, an ex-chief and vice-president at Texture, last week’s Empire Club speech gave a peek at what will drive the Ford government this fall.
“I think he wants to protect highly trade-exposed sectors — and there’s interest in doing something about business taxes to spur innovation and growth,” says Heimpel. “If he can actually reduce the amount of permits and processes the government is responsible for, that will be a huge win for the economy.”
With Ford’s popularity holding steady, Waler isn’t convinced the Opposition will make much of a dent. “I don’t think they’re a challenge to the government,” she says. “They’re wildly ineffective and they have no idea what normal people think about or care about. Their idea of speaking about things that people are worried about is tweeting inaccuracies about a weekend in Paris when people are worried about their jobs.”
“Until the opposition figures it out, they’ll be lost in obscurity.”
— Erin Morrison, who worked for Jagmeet Singh and is a vice-president at Texture, says there’s been a clear recalibration in Marit Stiles’ tone post-leadership review — and it’ll show when she’s back in the House.
“She’s taken on a stronger tone,” says Morrison. “She’s a bit more herself, a bit less scripted. I think that’s going to work for her.”
Expect the focus, Morrison says, to be squarely on jobs — a message shaped by a summer listening tour. “Jobs, jobs, jobs. Nothing will get fixed for people without them. I think she used this break wisely — taking the time to refocus, sharpen her team and sharpen her approach. I think that’ll pay off.”
In the chamber, Stiles has two big opportunities: to look like a premier-in-waiting and make the most of a Liberal Party still searching for a leader.
“People are looking at Doug Ford’s progress and saying: ’You promised to deal with crime — it’s worse than ever. You promised to deal with jobs — we’re almost at 8 per cent unemployment.’ I think people will start to see folksiness as a bit of a fig leaf. He’s not getting the job done — and for Stiles, that means she has to ignore the noise and get to the heart of why life is hard for people right now.”
By grounding their message in day-to-day struggles, Morrison argues the Dippers can do what the Liberals can’t.
“The Liberals, yet again, are focused on themselves, focused on their infighting. That means they’re not talking about the 800,000 people without a job, the health-care wait times, the price of homes… I think there’s a huge opportunity for Marit Stiles, and I see her poised to take it.”
Speaking of which: Expect Stiles to come out sharper — and feistier — than usual in Question Period. “She knows how to get under Doug’s skin,” a plugged-in source said. “You can expect more of that — especially about the fact that he can’t seem to do anything about the job losses in this province.”
— Marcel Wieder, the president of Aurora Strategy Global, says we can expect the Liberals to slam a government too busy talking about Donald Trump.
“Whether it’s the hospital crisis they’ve ignored, the situation in our schools and universities, or the struggles in the automotive and manufacturing sectors, they’ve conveniently tried to sidestep it all with a $75-million campaign designed to distract people from their own faulty record,” says Weider.
In practice: The seasoned Liberal strategist says they’ll be driving an economic message. “The government is blowing past every goal — whether on the budget or housing. They continue to operate with low regard for taxpayers, and I think that’ll be a focus for the party.”
With a leadership race ahead — and some caucus members eyeing the top job — Wieder says unity isn’t optional. “We’re about to enter a leadership race that could fracture the party — and what’s important is that the Liberals come together… The main focus needs to be on keeping the government to account.”
Can they do it? Wieder thinks so. “We’ve got a strong bunch — pound for pound, they punch way above their weight.”
Read up: The Canadian Press has more on what is expected to be a “short but intense” fall session.
A message from Next Campaign:
Watching Piccini — Can David Piccini hang on?
Those close to the labour minister — and Doug Ford himself — insist he’s safe. But behind the scenes, Tories are divided on whether he can hold on — and for how long.
Recall: Piccini has been buried under a wave of bad press. He’s facing questions about his cozy ties to lobbyists, how cash from the Skills Development Fund is being handed out, a trip to Paris and one controversial consultant — Mr. X — who says he got an early Greenbelt heads-up.
What Ford is saying: Publicly, Ford is still standing by him. By Friday, two days after the Star asked if Piccini still had the premier’s support, a spokesperson simply said “yes.”
What Ford isn’t saying: That response landed while speculation over a looming cabinet shake-up reached a fever pitch Friday. Privately, sources say Ford is frustrated the $2.5-billion fund has been dragged into controversy — and is ready to cut Piccini loose. “He’s on thin ice,” one well-placed Tory, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“There's no way Piccini can face the music [today],” a second source texted.
“The guy has worked in politics too long to make this many mistakes,” said one ex-staffer. “I don’t get it. It’s so foolish.”
For Piccini, it’s “full speed ahead,” a source close to him said, denying any bad blood with Ford. “He loves working for the people of Ontario,” the source added. “And we’re about to pass the Working for Workers Seven Act.”
Meanwhile, on retirement watch: Word on the street is that another cabinet minister could be on the way out. That is Neil Lumsden, who’s said to be mulling retirement.
Lumsden’s exit would trigger a vacancy in Hamilton East–Stoney Creek — a seat every party would be eager to snatch. Tories say it would be smart to call a by-election quickly, avoiding a challenge from a would-be Liberal leader in the riding.
Of course, rumour’s just that. A spokesperson for Lumsden didn’t respond to a request for comment.
— The House is back. 1. If you’re counting, it’s T-21 days until constituency week and T-57 until the winter wind-down.
— There’s a new seating plan in the chamber.
— No sign of Bonnie: Despite insisting she’ll stay on as interim leader, Bonnie Crombie has been MIA since September. Those around her say they’re not sure if she’ll stick around or pass the torch to someone in caucus (you just know John Fraser just sighed), only that she’s likely staying put “for the time being.”
As of now, according to a senior source: “She may be around here and there, but she’s not going to be front-facing. Caucus will be leading in the interim.”
Seen: Crombie has kept it low-key, though she posted a photo with her family on Thanksgiving.
— Committees are back, too. Here’s what’s ahead:
— Up at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, David Piccini and Graham McGregor will headline a $1,000-a-ticket fundraiser in Toronto. RSVP.
Also happening this week:
Save the date: Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria will speak at the Toronto Region Board of Trade on Thursday, October 30, followed by a sit-down with Giles Gherson. RSVP.
— Coming this week: The government will introduce a bill to boost worker mobility for health-care workers. Chris Glover will table a motion urging the government to create a new research grant for public colleges and universities studying AI governance and safety, while Marit Stiles has an Opposition Day motion lined up.
— Down on the South Lawn: At 10 a.m., Policing Free Schools will protest against Bill 33 (there’ll be a DJ). The Canadian Federation of Students is expected to join.
On Thursday at 9:30 a.m., the Ontario Public Service Employees Union is hosting a rally “to show the Ford government community and social services workers won’t stop until we get the wages and funding we deserve.”
On Saturday at 11:30 am, a “No To Hate; Everyone Belongs” rally is taking place.
Meanwhile: “Several parent groups against a looming speed camera ban in Ontario are holding a provincial day of action on Monday…” More from Canadian Press.
— Fall fun: Tomorrow at 5:30 p.m., it’s Oktoberfest in the East Hall. “Wear your finest Lederhosen or Dirndl. Beer tapping at 6 p.m.,” per the invite. Speaker Donna Skelly and Kitchener-Waterloo MPPs are co-hosting.
— The NDP has launched a new website to amp up pressure on the ex-PC MPP to quit. “It gives residents the opportunity to make their voice heard,” per the party. More from Soo Today.
— Follow the money: “The criteria used by the Ford government to hand out millions of dollars through its controversial Skills Development Fund remain a secret as a new Star analysis shows 17 unions and industry groups that endorsed the Progressive Conservatives in the February election received $237 million.” Read on from the Star.
Meanwhile: Global reports the Tories are facing questions over why one Ontario company — tied to a shortage of medical supplies for elderly and palliative care patients — received millions from the controversial fund.
— Mr. X is back: “The development consultant known as “Mr. X” is claiming that Ontario’s current labour minister gave him an early heads-up that the government would open up parts of the Greenbelt for development. A spokesperson for the minister denied the claim, calling it “categorically untrue and patently false.” The Trillium has the scoop.
— Speed bump: “Some municipalities still hope to convince Ford to change his mind, as their programs continue. Others are looking to recoup lost revenue from implementing the programs and lost ticket revenue.” The Star has more on how cities are scrambling to figure out what to do with their love-’em-or-hate-’em cameras.
— For the Tories: “The Conservative Party is pursuing changes to how it nominates candidates after widespread frustration over the process for the April federal election.” More from the Globe.
And Althia Raj writes an uprising could be brewing against federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.
That's in response to this op-ed by ex-Harper aide Dimitri Soudas, who argued Poilievre is “dismantling the principled, serious and credible Conservative party Harper worked so hard to lead and bring to power, one of substance, maturity and integrity.”
— CityNews reports that financial regulators “have hit two former mortgage agents with a combined total of $230,000 in administrative penalties for reckless conduct, failing to verify information and enabling fraud.”
— “A new clinical trial at Kingston Health Sciences Centre could mark a turning point in how anxiety is treated in Canada.” Global has more.
— Does Doug Ford want to be Ontario’s mayor? At least, that’s what The Globe’s editorial board says.
— Edward Keenan says if you’re appalled by the Home Depot story, you may never understand Ford’s appeal.
— John Michael McGrath argues there should be a Plan B for the province’s faltering auto sector.
— Humane Initiative’s Donna Power argues that Ford is “dodging accountability” amid an animal welfare crisis.
— Here’s how the NHL and reality TV explain “the implosion” of Team Canada, Shannon Proudfoot writes.
— Brian Lilley says Olivia Chow “needs to stop dancing, stop talking tacos, stop doing bat flips and calls to the Blue Jays and get to work turning this city around.”
— Over in Liberal land: A fresh poll by Relay Strategies found Toronto physician Andrew Boozary could give Doug Ford a real run for his money.
The poll, conducted online between October 10 to 13, surveyed 1,268 voters. To begin, respondents were given “photos, fulsome biographies and social media content” for each candidate: Boozary, Karina Gould and Nate Erskine-Smith.
Recall: Just before the leadership review in September, Relay was out with another poll — that time finding Boozary the “most exciting candidate,” ahead of Karina Gould and Mohamad Fakih.
Why it matters: It’s early, but the numbers hint that Boozary’s got room to break through. His narrow lead could point to growing hunger among voters for an outsider who can credibly challenge Ford’s populist brand.
Among Liberals, though, some are skeptical. “You could put the name of John Smith or Mickey Mouse and they’d score very high,” one said.
Some suspect Boozary, still a relative unknown, may have had a hand in commissioning the poll himself (Relay’s Kyla Ronellenfitsch says it was “self-funded” by her company). “This is most likely either people trying to convince him to run — or his own nascent campaign trying to scare people out of the field,” one Progressive Conservative texted.
A source close to Boozary denied it, insisting he had “absolutely nothing to do with it.”
The Tories, meanwhile, aren’t worried. One texted: “I think Ford would be wise to enlist his help — similar to what he did with Jane Philpott — to help solve homelessness. I think that would be a much better use of his skill and ability, and he’d move the needle further on the file he really cares about by working with the current government than trying to take them down on one social issue that doesn’t impact most of the electorate.”
Meet Team Boozary: Despite what you might’ve heard, ex-Bonnie Crombie advisor Tom Allison and Milton Chan aren’t involved with Boozary. Instead, Sharan Kaur and Derrick Araneda are among the early operatives advising the still-forming campaign.
Keep in mind: As we reported, though the physician is weighing a leadership bid, he’s also “being encouraged” to run for Mark Carney in University-Rosedale, where Chrystia Freeland is expected to step down. Marco Mendicino is also said to be interested in the seat.
Freeland’s next move? An ambassadorship, we’re told — though no one’s saying where just yet. Her resignation is expected following the November budget, part of a wider exodus in the Liberal benches.
As for Gould: Despite earlier indicating to allies she was out, sources say the ex-federal minister has formed an exploratory group led by John O’Leary. One source says her team has been holding weekly calls and sounding out support.
“There’s a group of people around her, but she’s not necessarily convinced,” said a second source.
ICYMI: A mystery website was fronted by a form asking: “Sign up if you think Karina should run for leader of the Ontario Liberal Party.” It’s since been deleted, but we grabbed a screenshot.
Political moves, career milestones, sightings? Send ‘em in.
— Seen: Prime Minister Mark Carney hanging out at Premier Ford’s home in Etobicoke. Ford at Trillium Health Partners’ Diwali Gala and later, hoodie on at Humber College. It was wig day for Adil Shamji and Stephanie Smythe:
A new piece by Norval Morrisseau has been installed outside The Star’s bureau.
— Noted: The New Leaf Liberals are now on X.
Speaking of which: The group, which organized to oust Bonnie Crombie, has more in the tank. They’re hosting a November meet-up at 3 Brasseurs in Ottawa, pitching it as a chance to “hang out, meet friends new and old, and help us chart the future of the party.”
More events are coming, we’re told, with plans to create space for leadership candidates to engage the grassroots outside the party’s machinery.
On the record: “We are excited about the opportunity to work collaboratively to advance the Ontario Liberal Party so that whoever wins the next leadership election, they are in a position to take the fight to Doug Ford with a party capable of winning,” a spokesperson said.
— Noted: The University of Toronto Mississauga Students’ Union (UTMSU) is throwing a “Doug Ford Costume Contest,” as part of an advocacy week on Bill 33.
Recall: Earlier this month, the union landed in hot water for hosting a vigil commemorating Palestinian “martyrs,” which one group described as “rubbing salt into the wounds of our Jewish learners, staff, faculty and alumni.” Catch up.
— Meanwhile, a coalition of Muslim Student Associations are denouncing Energy Minister Stephen Lecce for labelling one club a “morally degenerate group.” “... We stand in full support of the UTM MSA as they take the necessary steps to defend themselves from defamatory allegations,” they wrote.
— An ex-aide to Michael Kerzner was caught “warning an 18-year-old volunteer against setting up a campus Conservative club, while claiming to speak on behalf of the [federal] party,” per a recording leaked to Rebel.
— Hired: Max Correia is Doug Ford’s new Executive Director of Marketing and Public Opinion Research. Announcement.
Klaus Reif of Reif Estate Winery has been appointed to the Niagara College’s board.
Michael Kraljevic, the chair of the Ontario Land Tribunal, is set to be appointed to Humber College’s board.
Simon Wolle is the new CEO of B’nai Brith Canada.
— Say hello to this year’s OLIP class: Noor Akrawi, Keana Cavero, Geneva Fuina, Giuliana Iacobucci, David Landry, Bianca Morelli, Eve Parry, Kewan Perera, Emily Yinchang Shi and Shakthi Suthakaran. More.
— Hiring: The Ontario PC Fund is looking for a fundraising associate. It’s an “entry-level position… ideal for someone eager to gain hands-on experience in fundraising, donor relations and event coordination.”
Nolan Quinn is on the hunt for a new policy director. Jennifer French is looking for a legislative assistant. France Gélinas is looking for a constituency assistant. So too is Peggy Sattler.
The Ontario Association of Social Workers is searching for a CEO.
— Episode 4 of The Premier Files is out, feat. Ernie Eaves.
— Premiering tonight at 8 p.m.: TVO’s The Rundown, hosted by Jeyan Jeganathan. “Produced by the award-winning team behind The Agenda, The Rundown delivers the same journalistic integrity and depth — now in a faster-paced format.” Promo.
— Danielle Smith is set to appear on the Travis Dhanraj-Karman Wong podcast, “Can’t Be Censored.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. What’s on your radar this fall? Got a boss driving you up the wall? Are you actually running for Liberal leader? Hit reply and you’ll stay anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.
137 days later, we’re back. Does anyone want to be Liberal leader? Doug Ford is standing by David Piccini, but Tories are divided on if — and how long — he can hold on. Is one cabinet minister about to bow out? But to start, here’s what the political crowd is watching for this fall session.
— Laryssa Waler, Premier Ford’s ex-communications director and the CEO of Henley Strategies, says the Tories will stick to their message, with Donald Trump front and centre this fall. Crime, red-tape reduction and help for industries bruised by the trade war will also top the to-do list.
“That’s what people care about, that’s what they’re worried about — and that’s what’s top of mind for the Premier too,” she says.
For Mitch Heimpel, an ex-chief and vice-president at Texture, last week’s Empire Club speech gave a peek at what will drive the Ford government this fall.
“I think he wants to protect highly trade-exposed sectors — and there’s interest in doing something about business taxes to spur innovation and growth,” says Heimpel. “If he can actually reduce the amount of permits and processes the government is responsible for, that will be a huge win for the economy.”
With Ford’s popularity holding steady, Waler isn’t convinced the Opposition will make much of a dent. “I don’t think they’re a challenge to the government,” she says. “They’re wildly ineffective and they have no idea what normal people think about or care about. Their idea of speaking about things that people are worried about is tweeting inaccuracies about a weekend in Paris when people are worried about their jobs.”
“Until the opposition figures it out, they’ll be lost in obscurity.”
— Erin Morrison, who worked for Jagmeet Singh and is a vice-president at Texture, says there’s been a clear recalibration in Marit Stiles’ tone post-leadership review — and it’ll show when she’s back in the House.
“She’s taken on a stronger tone,” says Morrison. “She’s a bit more herself, a bit less scripted. I think that’s going to work for her.”
Expect the focus, Morrison says, to be squarely on jobs — a message shaped by a summer listening tour. “Jobs, jobs, jobs. Nothing will get fixed for people without them. I think she used this break wisely — taking the time to refocus, sharpen her team and sharpen her approach. I think that’ll pay off.”
In the chamber, Stiles has two big opportunities: to look like a premier-in-waiting and make the most of a Liberal Party still searching for a leader.
“People are looking at Doug Ford’s progress and saying: ’You promised to deal with crime — it’s worse than ever. You promised to deal with jobs — we’re almost at 8 per cent unemployment.’ I think people will start to see folksiness as a bit of a fig leaf. He’s not getting the job done — and for Stiles, that means she has to ignore the noise and get to the heart of why life is hard for people right now.”
By grounding their message in day-to-day struggles, Morrison argues the Dippers can do what the Liberals can’t.
“The Liberals, yet again, are focused on themselves, focused on their infighting. That means they’re not talking about the 800,000 people without a job, the health-care wait times, the price of homes… I think there’s a huge opportunity for Marit Stiles, and I see her poised to take it.”
Speaking of which: Expect Stiles to come out sharper — and feistier — than usual in Question Period. “She knows how to get under Doug’s skin,” a plugged-in source said. “You can expect more of that — especially about the fact that he can’t seem to do anything about the job losses in this province.”
— Marcel Wieder, the president of Aurora Strategy Global, says we can expect the Liberals to slam a government too busy talking about Donald Trump.
“Whether it’s the hospital crisis they’ve ignored, the situation in our schools and universities, or the struggles in the automotive and manufacturing sectors, they’ve conveniently tried to sidestep it all with a $75-million campaign designed to distract people from their own faulty record,” says Weider.
In practice: The seasoned Liberal strategist says they’ll be driving an economic message. “The government is blowing past every goal — whether on the budget or housing. They continue to operate with low regard for taxpayers, and I think that’ll be a focus for the party.”
With a leadership race ahead — and some caucus members eyeing the top job — Wieder says unity isn’t optional. “We’re about to enter a leadership race that could fracture the party — and what’s important is that the Liberals come together… The main focus needs to be on keeping the government to account.”
Can they do it? Wieder thinks so. “We’ve got a strong bunch — pound for pound, they punch way above their weight.”
Read up: The Canadian Press has more on what is expected to be a “short but intense” fall session.
A message from Next Campaign:
Watching Piccini — Can David Piccini hang on?
Those close to the labour minister — and Doug Ford himself — insist he’s safe. But behind the scenes, Tories are divided on whether he can hold on — and for how long.
Recall: Piccini has been buried under a wave of bad press. He’s facing questions about his cozy ties to lobbyists, how cash from the Skills Development Fund is being handed out, a trip to Paris and one controversial consultant — Mr. X — who says he got an early Greenbelt heads-up.
What Ford is saying: Publicly, Ford is still standing by him. By Friday, two days after the Star asked if Piccini still had the premier’s support, a spokesperson simply said “yes.”
What Ford isn’t saying: That response landed while speculation over a looming cabinet shake-up reached a fever pitch Friday. Privately, sources say Ford is frustrated the $2.5-billion fund has been dragged into controversy — and is ready to cut Piccini loose. “He’s on thin ice,” one well-placed Tory, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“There's no way Piccini can face the music [today],” a second source texted.
“The guy has worked in politics too long to make this many mistakes,” said one ex-staffer. “I don’t get it. It’s so foolish.”
For Piccini, it’s “full speed ahead,” a source close to him said, denying any bad blood with Ford. “He loves working for the people of Ontario,” the source added. “And we’re about to pass the Working for Workers Seven Act.”
Meanwhile, on retirement watch: Word on the street is that another cabinet minister could be on the way out. That is Neil Lumsden, who’s said to be mulling retirement.
Lumsden’s exit would trigger a vacancy in Hamilton East–Stoney Creek — a seat every party would be eager to snatch. Tories say it would be smart to call a by-election quickly, avoiding a challenge from a would-be Liberal leader in the riding.
Of course, rumour’s just that. A spokesperson for Lumsden didn’t respond to a request for comment.
— The House is back. 1. If you’re counting, it’s T-21 days until constituency week and T-57 until the winter wind-down.
— There’s a new seating plan in the chamber.
— No sign of Bonnie: Despite insisting she’ll stay on as interim leader, Bonnie Crombie has been MIA since September. Those around her say they’re not sure if she’ll stick around or pass the torch to someone in caucus (you just know John Fraser just sighed), only that she’s likely staying put “for the time being.”
As of now, according to a senior source: “She may be around here and there, but she’s not going to be front-facing. Caucus will be leading in the interim.”
Seen: Crombie has kept it low-key, though she posted a photo with her family on Thanksgiving.
— Committees are back, too. Here’s what’s ahead:
— Up at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, David Piccini and Graham McGregor will headline a $1,000-a-ticket fundraiser in Toronto. RSVP.
Also happening this week:
Save the date: Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria will speak at the Toronto Region Board of Trade on Thursday, October 30, followed by a sit-down with Giles Gherson. RSVP.
— Coming this week: The government will introduce a bill to boost worker mobility for health-care workers. Chris Glover will table a motion urging the government to create a new research grant for public colleges and universities studying AI governance and safety, while Marit Stiles has an Opposition Day motion lined up.
— Down on the South Lawn: At 10 a.m., Policing Free Schools will protest against Bill 33 (there’ll be a DJ). The Canadian Federation of Students is expected to join.
On Thursday at 9:30 a.m., the Ontario Public Service Employees Union is hosting a rally “to show the Ford government community and social services workers won’t stop until we get the wages and funding we deserve.”
On Saturday at 11:30 am, a “No To Hate; Everyone Belongs” rally is taking place.
Meanwhile: “Several parent groups against a looming speed camera ban in Ontario are holding a provincial day of action on Monday…” More from Canadian Press.
— Fall fun: Tomorrow at 5:30 p.m., it’s Oktoberfest in the East Hall. “Wear your finest Lederhosen or Dirndl. Beer tapping at 6 p.m.,” per the invite. Speaker Donna Skelly and Kitchener-Waterloo MPPs are co-hosting.
— The NDP has launched a new website to amp up pressure on the ex-PC MPP to quit. “It gives residents the opportunity to make their voice heard,” per the party. More from Soo Today.
— Follow the money: “The criteria used by the Ford government to hand out millions of dollars through its controversial Skills Development Fund remain a secret as a new Star analysis shows 17 unions and industry groups that endorsed the Progressive Conservatives in the February election received $237 million.” Read on from the Star.
Meanwhile: Global reports the Tories are facing questions over why one Ontario company — tied to a shortage of medical supplies for elderly and palliative care patients — received millions from the controversial fund.
— Mr. X is back: “The development consultant known as “Mr. X” is claiming that Ontario’s current labour minister gave him an early heads-up that the government would open up parts of the Greenbelt for development. A spokesperson for the minister denied the claim, calling it “categorically untrue and patently false.” The Trillium has the scoop.
— Speed bump: “Some municipalities still hope to convince Ford to change his mind, as their programs continue. Others are looking to recoup lost revenue from implementing the programs and lost ticket revenue.” The Star has more on how cities are scrambling to figure out what to do with their love-’em-or-hate-’em cameras.
— For the Tories: “The Conservative Party is pursuing changes to how it nominates candidates after widespread frustration over the process for the April federal election.” More from the Globe.
And Althia Raj writes an uprising could be brewing against federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.
That's in response to this op-ed by ex-Harper aide Dimitri Soudas, who argued Poilievre is “dismantling the principled, serious and credible Conservative party Harper worked so hard to lead and bring to power, one of substance, maturity and integrity.”
— CityNews reports that financial regulators “have hit two former mortgage agents with a combined total of $230,000 in administrative penalties for reckless conduct, failing to verify information and enabling fraud.”
— “A new clinical trial at Kingston Health Sciences Centre could mark a turning point in how anxiety is treated in Canada.” Global has more.
— Does Doug Ford want to be Ontario’s mayor? At least, that’s what The Globe’s editorial board says.
— Edward Keenan says if you’re appalled by the Home Depot story, you may never understand Ford’s appeal.
— John Michael McGrath argues there should be a Plan B for the province’s faltering auto sector.
— Humane Initiative’s Donna Power argues that Ford is “dodging accountability” amid an animal welfare crisis.
— Here’s how the NHL and reality TV explain “the implosion” of Team Canada, Shannon Proudfoot writes.
— Brian Lilley says Olivia Chow “needs to stop dancing, stop talking tacos, stop doing bat flips and calls to the Blue Jays and get to work turning this city around.”
— Over in Liberal land: A fresh poll by Relay Strategies found Toronto physician Andrew Boozary could give Doug Ford a real run for his money.
The poll, conducted online between October 10 to 13, surveyed 1,268 voters. To begin, respondents were given “photos, fulsome biographies and social media content” for each candidate: Boozary, Karina Gould and Nate Erskine-Smith.
Recall: Just before the leadership review in September, Relay was out with another poll — that time finding Boozary the “most exciting candidate,” ahead of Karina Gould and Mohamad Fakih.
Why it matters: It’s early, but the numbers hint that Boozary’s got room to break through. His narrow lead could point to growing hunger among voters for an outsider who can credibly challenge Ford’s populist brand.
Among Liberals, though, some are skeptical. “You could put the name of John Smith or Mickey Mouse and they’d score very high,” one said.
Some suspect Boozary, still a relative unknown, may have had a hand in commissioning the poll himself (Relay’s Kyla Ronellenfitsch says it was “self-funded” by her company). “This is most likely either people trying to convince him to run — or his own nascent campaign trying to scare people out of the field,” one Progressive Conservative texted.
A source close to Boozary denied it, insisting he had “absolutely nothing to do with it.”
The Tories, meanwhile, aren’t worried. One texted: “I think Ford would be wise to enlist his help — similar to what he did with Jane Philpott — to help solve homelessness. I think that would be a much better use of his skill and ability, and he’d move the needle further on the file he really cares about by working with the current government than trying to take them down on one social issue that doesn’t impact most of the electorate.”
Meet Team Boozary: Despite what you might’ve heard, ex-Bonnie Crombie advisor Tom Allison and Milton Chan aren’t involved with Boozary. Instead, Sharan Kaur and Derrick Araneda are among the early operatives advising the still-forming campaign.
Keep in mind: As we reported, though the physician is weighing a leadership bid, he’s also “being encouraged” to run for Mark Carney in University-Rosedale, where Chrystia Freeland is expected to step down. Marco Mendicino is also said to be interested in the seat.
Freeland’s next move? An ambassadorship, we’re told — though no one’s saying where just yet. Her resignation is expected following the November budget, part of a wider exodus in the Liberal benches.
As for Gould: Despite earlier indicating to allies she was out, sources say the ex-federal minister has formed an exploratory group led by John O’Leary. One source says her team has been holding weekly calls and sounding out support.
“There’s a group of people around her, but she’s not necessarily convinced,” said a second source.
ICYMI: A mystery website was fronted by a form asking: “Sign up if you think Karina should run for leader of the Ontario Liberal Party.” It’s since been deleted, but we grabbed a screenshot.
Political moves, career milestones, sightings? Send ‘em in.
— Seen: Prime Minister Mark Carney hanging out at Premier Ford’s home in Etobicoke. Ford at Trillium Health Partners’ Diwali Gala and later, hoodie on at Humber College. It was wig day for Adil Shamji and Stephanie Smythe:
A new piece by Norval Morrisseau has been installed outside The Star’s bureau.
— Noted: The New Leaf Liberals are now on X.
Speaking of which: The group, which organized to oust Bonnie Crombie, has more in the tank. They’re hosting a November meet-up at 3 Brasseurs in Ottawa, pitching it as a chance to “hang out, meet friends new and old, and help us chart the future of the party.”
More events are coming, we’re told, with plans to create space for leadership candidates to engage the grassroots outside the party’s machinery.
On the record: “We are excited about the opportunity to work collaboratively to advance the Ontario Liberal Party so that whoever wins the next leadership election, they are in a position to take the fight to Doug Ford with a party capable of winning,” a spokesperson said.
— Noted: The University of Toronto Mississauga Students’ Union (UTMSU) is throwing a “Doug Ford Costume Contest,” as part of an advocacy week on Bill 33.
Recall: Earlier this month, the union landed in hot water for hosting a vigil commemorating Palestinian “martyrs,” which one group described as “rubbing salt into the wounds of our Jewish learners, staff, faculty and alumni.” Catch up.
— Meanwhile, a coalition of Muslim Student Associations are denouncing Energy Minister Stephen Lecce for labelling one club a “morally degenerate group.” “... We stand in full support of the UTM MSA as they take the necessary steps to defend themselves from defamatory allegations,” they wrote.
— An ex-aide to Michael Kerzner was caught “warning an 18-year-old volunteer against setting up a campus Conservative club, while claiming to speak on behalf of the [federal] party,” per a recording leaked to Rebel.
— Hired: Max Correia is Doug Ford’s new Executive Director of Marketing and Public Opinion Research. Announcement.
Klaus Reif of Reif Estate Winery has been appointed to the Niagara College’s board.
Michael Kraljevic, the chair of the Ontario Land Tribunal, is set to be appointed to Humber College’s board.
Simon Wolle is the new CEO of B’nai Brith Canada.
— Say hello to this year’s OLIP class: Noor Akrawi, Keana Cavero, Geneva Fuina, Giuliana Iacobucci, David Landry, Bianca Morelli, Eve Parry, Kewan Perera, Emily Yinchang Shi and Shakthi Suthakaran. More.
— Hiring: The Ontario PC Fund is looking for a fundraising associate. It’s an “entry-level position… ideal for someone eager to gain hands-on experience in fundraising, donor relations and event coordination.”
Nolan Quinn is on the hunt for a new policy director. Jennifer French is looking for a legislative assistant. France Gélinas is looking for a constituency assistant. So too is Peggy Sattler.
The Ontario Association of Social Workers is searching for a CEO.
— Episode 4 of The Premier Files is out, feat. Ernie Eaves.
— Premiering tonight at 8 p.m.: TVO’s The Rundown, hosted by Jeyan Jeganathan. “Produced by the award-winning team behind The Agenda, The Rundown delivers the same journalistic integrity and depth — now in a faster-paced format.” Promo.
— Danielle Smith is set to appear on the Travis Dhanraj-Karman Wong podcast, “Can’t Be Censored.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. What’s on your radar this fall? Got a boss driving you up the wall? Are you actually running for Liberal leader? Hit reply and you’ll stay anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.
137 days later, we’re back. Does anyone want to be Liberal leader? Doug Ford is standing by David Piccini, but Tories are divided on if — and how long — he can hold on. Is one cabinet minister about to bow out? But to start, here’s what the political crowd is watching for this fall session.
— Laryssa Waler, Premier Ford’s ex-communications director and the CEO of Henley Strategies, says the Tories will stick to their message, with Donald Trump front and centre this fall. Crime, red-tape reduction and help for industries bruised by the trade war will also top the to-do list.
“That’s what people care about, that’s what they’re worried about — and that’s what’s top of mind for the Premier too,” she says.
For Mitch Heimpel, an ex-chief and vice-president at Texture, last week’s Empire Club speech gave a peek at what will drive the Ford government this fall.
“I think he wants to protect highly trade-exposed sectors — and there’s interest in doing something about business taxes to spur innovation and growth,” says Heimpel. “If he can actually reduce the amount of permits and processes the government is responsible for, that will be a huge win for the economy.”
With Ford’s popularity holding steady, Waler isn’t convinced the Opposition will make much of a dent. “I don’t think they’re a challenge to the government,” she says. “They’re wildly ineffective and they have no idea what normal people think about or care about. Their idea of speaking about things that people are worried about is tweeting inaccuracies about a weekend in Paris when people are worried about their jobs.”
“Until the opposition figures it out, they’ll be lost in obscurity.”
— Erin Morrison, who worked for Jagmeet Singh and is a vice-president at Texture, says there’s been a clear recalibration in Marit Stiles’ tone post-leadership review — and it’ll show when she’s back in the House.
“She’s taken on a stronger tone,” says Morrison. “She’s a bit more herself, a bit less scripted. I think that’s going to work for her.”
Expect the focus, Morrison says, to be squarely on jobs — a message shaped by a summer listening tour. “Jobs, jobs, jobs. Nothing will get fixed for people without them. I think she used this break wisely — taking the time to refocus, sharpen her team and sharpen her approach. I think that’ll pay off.”
In the chamber, Stiles has two big opportunities: to look like a premier-in-waiting and make the most of a Liberal Party still searching for a leader.
“People are looking at Doug Ford’s progress and saying: ’You promised to deal with crime — it’s worse than ever. You promised to deal with jobs — we’re almost at 8 per cent unemployment.’ I think people will start to see folksiness as a bit of a fig leaf. He’s not getting the job done — and for Stiles, that means she has to ignore the noise and get to the heart of why life is hard for people right now.”
By grounding their message in day-to-day struggles, Morrison argues the Dippers can do what the Liberals can’t.
“The Liberals, yet again, are focused on themselves, focused on their infighting. That means they’re not talking about the 800,000 people without a job, the health-care wait times, the price of homes… I think there’s a huge opportunity for Marit Stiles, and I see her poised to take it.”
Speaking of which: Expect Stiles to come out sharper — and feistier — than usual in Question Period. “She knows how to get under Doug’s skin,” a plugged-in source said. “You can expect more of that — especially about the fact that he can’t seem to do anything about the job losses in this province.”
— Marcel Wieder, the president of Aurora Strategy Global, says we can expect the Liberals to slam a government too busy talking about Donald Trump.
“Whether it’s the hospital crisis they’ve ignored, the situation in our schools and universities, or the struggles in the automotive and manufacturing sectors, they’ve conveniently tried to sidestep it all with a $75-million campaign designed to distract people from their own faulty record,” says Weider.
In practice: The seasoned Liberal strategist says they’ll be driving an economic message. “The government is blowing past every goal — whether on the budget or housing. They continue to operate with low regard for taxpayers, and I think that’ll be a focus for the party.”
With a leadership race ahead — and some caucus members eyeing the top job — Wieder says unity isn’t optional. “We’re about to enter a leadership race that could fracture the party — and what’s important is that the Liberals come together… The main focus needs to be on keeping the government to account.”
Can they do it? Wieder thinks so. “We’ve got a strong bunch — pound for pound, they punch way above their weight.”
Read up: The Canadian Press has more on what is expected to be a “short but intense” fall session.
A message from Next Campaign:
Watching Piccini — Can David Piccini hang on?
Those close to the labour minister — and Doug Ford himself — insist he’s safe. But behind the scenes, Tories are divided on whether he can hold on — and for how long.
Recall: Piccini has been buried under a wave of bad press. He’s facing questions about his cozy ties to lobbyists, how cash from the Skills Development Fund is being handed out, a trip to Paris and one controversial consultant — Mr. X — who says he got an early Greenbelt heads-up.
What Ford is saying: Publicly, Ford is still standing by him. By Friday, two days after the Star asked if Piccini still had the premier’s support, a spokesperson simply said “yes.”
What Ford isn’t saying: That response landed while speculation over a looming cabinet shake-up reached a fever pitch Friday. Privately, sources say Ford is frustrated the $2.5-billion fund has been dragged into controversy — and is ready to cut Piccini loose. “He’s on thin ice,” one well-placed Tory, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“There's no way Piccini can face the music [today],” a second source texted.
“The guy has worked in politics too long to make this many mistakes,” said one ex-staffer. “I don’t get it. It’s so foolish.”
For Piccini, it’s “full speed ahead,” a source close to him said, denying any bad blood with Ford. “He loves working for the people of Ontario,” the source added. “And we’re about to pass the Working for Workers Seven Act.”
Meanwhile, on retirement watch: Word on the street is that another cabinet minister could be on the way out. That is Neil Lumsden, who’s said to be mulling retirement.
Lumsden’s exit would trigger a vacancy in Hamilton East–Stoney Creek — a seat every party would be eager to snatch. Tories say it would be smart to call a by-election quickly, avoiding a challenge from a would-be Liberal leader in the riding.
Of course, rumour’s just that. A spokesperson for Lumsden didn’t respond to a request for comment.
— The House is back. 1. If you’re counting, it’s T-21 days until constituency week and T-57 until the winter wind-down.
— There’s a new seating plan in the chamber.
— No sign of Bonnie: Despite insisting she’ll stay on as interim leader, Bonnie Crombie has been MIA since September. Those around her say they’re not sure if she’ll stick around or pass the torch to someone in caucus (you just know John Fraser just sighed), only that she’s likely staying put “for the time being.”
As of now, according to a senior source: “She may be around here and there, but she’s not going to be front-facing. Caucus will be leading in the interim.”
Seen: Crombie has kept it low-key, though she posted a photo with her family on Thanksgiving.
— Committees are back, too. Here’s what’s ahead:
— Up at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, David Piccini and Graham McGregor will headline a $1,000-a-ticket fundraiser in Toronto. RSVP.
Also happening this week:
Save the date: Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria will speak at the Toronto Region Board of Trade on Thursday, October 30, followed by a sit-down with Giles Gherson. RSVP.
— Coming this week: The government will introduce a bill to boost worker mobility for health-care workers. Chris Glover will table a motion urging the government to create a new research grant for public colleges and universities studying AI governance and safety, while Marit Stiles has an Opposition Day motion lined up.
— Down on the South Lawn: At 10 a.m., Policing Free Schools will protest against Bill 33 (there’ll be a DJ). The Canadian Federation of Students is expected to join.
On Thursday at 9:30 a.m., the Ontario Public Service Employees Union is hosting a rally “to show the Ford government community and social services workers won’t stop until we get the wages and funding we deserve.”
On Saturday at 11:30 am, a “No To Hate; Everyone Belongs” rally is taking place.
Meanwhile: “Several parent groups against a looming speed camera ban in Ontario are holding a provincial day of action on Monday…” More from Canadian Press.
— Fall fun: Tomorrow at 5:30 p.m., it’s Oktoberfest in the East Hall. “Wear your finest Lederhosen or Dirndl. Beer tapping at 6 p.m.,” per the invite. Speaker Donna Skelly and Kitchener-Waterloo MPPs are co-hosting.
— The NDP has launched a new website to amp up pressure on the ex-PC MPP to quit. “It gives residents the opportunity to make their voice heard,” per the party. More from Soo Today.
— Follow the money: “The criteria used by the Ford government to hand out millions of dollars through its controversial Skills Development Fund remain a secret as a new Star analysis shows 17 unions and industry groups that endorsed the Progressive Conservatives in the February election received $237 million.” Read on from the Star.
Meanwhile: Global reports the Tories are facing questions over why one Ontario company — tied to a shortage of medical supplies for elderly and palliative care patients — received millions from the controversial fund.
— Mr. X is back: “The development consultant known as “Mr. X” is claiming that Ontario’s current labour minister gave him an early heads-up that the government would open up parts of the Greenbelt for development. A spokesperson for the minister denied the claim, calling it “categorically untrue and patently false.” The Trillium has the scoop.
— Speed bump: “Some municipalities still hope to convince Ford to change his mind, as their programs continue. Others are looking to recoup lost revenue from implementing the programs and lost ticket revenue.” The Star has more on how cities are scrambling to figure out what to do with their love-’em-or-hate-’em cameras.
— For the Tories: “The Conservative Party is pursuing changes to how it nominates candidates after widespread frustration over the process for the April federal election.” More from the Globe.
And Althia Raj writes an uprising could be brewing against federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.
That's in response to this op-ed by ex-Harper aide Dimitri Soudas, who argued Poilievre is “dismantling the principled, serious and credible Conservative party Harper worked so hard to lead and bring to power, one of substance, maturity and integrity.”
— CityNews reports that financial regulators “have hit two former mortgage agents with a combined total of $230,000 in administrative penalties for reckless conduct, failing to verify information and enabling fraud.”
— “A new clinical trial at Kingston Health Sciences Centre could mark a turning point in how anxiety is treated in Canada.” Global has more.
— Does Doug Ford want to be Ontario’s mayor? At least, that’s what The Globe’s editorial board says.
— Edward Keenan says if you’re appalled by the Home Depot story, you may never understand Ford’s appeal.
— John Michael McGrath argues there should be a Plan B for the province’s faltering auto sector.
— Humane Initiative’s Donna Power argues that Ford is “dodging accountability” amid an animal welfare crisis.
— Here’s how the NHL and reality TV explain “the implosion” of Team Canada, Shannon Proudfoot writes.
— Brian Lilley says Olivia Chow “needs to stop dancing, stop talking tacos, stop doing bat flips and calls to the Blue Jays and get to work turning this city around.”
— Over in Liberal land: A fresh poll by Relay Strategies found Toronto physician Andrew Boozary could give Doug Ford a real run for his money.
The poll, conducted online between October 10 to 13, surveyed 1,268 voters. To begin, respondents were given “photos, fulsome biographies and social media content” for each candidate: Boozary, Karina Gould and Nate Erskine-Smith.
Recall: Just before the leadership review in September, Relay was out with another poll — that time finding Boozary the “most exciting candidate,” ahead of Karina Gould and Mohamad Fakih.
Why it matters: It’s early, but the numbers hint that Boozary’s got room to break through. His narrow lead could point to growing hunger among voters for an outsider who can credibly challenge Ford’s populist brand.
Among Liberals, though, some are skeptical. “You could put the name of John Smith or Mickey Mouse and they’d score very high,” one said.
Some suspect Boozary, still a relative unknown, may have had a hand in commissioning the poll himself (Relay’s Kyla Ronellenfitsch says it was “self-funded” by her company). “This is most likely either people trying to convince him to run — or his own nascent campaign trying to scare people out of the field,” one Progressive Conservative texted.
A source close to Boozary denied it, insisting he had “absolutely nothing to do with it.”
The Tories, meanwhile, aren’t worried. One texted: “I think Ford would be wise to enlist his help — similar to what he did with Jane Philpott — to help solve homelessness. I think that would be a much better use of his skill and ability, and he’d move the needle further on the file he really cares about by working with the current government than trying to take them down on one social issue that doesn’t impact most of the electorate.”
Meet Team Boozary: Despite what you might’ve heard, ex-Bonnie Crombie advisor Tom Allison and Milton Chan aren’t involved with Boozary. Instead, Sharan Kaur and Derrick Araneda are among the early operatives advising the still-forming campaign.
Keep in mind: As we reported, though the physician is weighing a leadership bid, he’s also “being encouraged” to run for Mark Carney in University-Rosedale, where Chrystia Freeland is expected to step down. Marco Mendicino is also said to be interested in the seat.
Freeland’s next move? An ambassadorship, we’re told — though no one’s saying where just yet. Her resignation is expected following the November budget, part of a wider exodus in the Liberal benches.
As for Gould: Despite earlier indicating to allies she was out, sources say the ex-federal minister has formed an exploratory group led by John O’Leary. One source says her team has been holding weekly calls and sounding out support.
“There’s a group of people around her, but she’s not necessarily convinced,” said a second source.
ICYMI: A mystery website was fronted by a form asking: “Sign up if you think Karina should run for leader of the Ontario Liberal Party.” It’s since been deleted, but we grabbed a screenshot.
Political moves, career milestones, sightings? Send ‘em in.
— Seen: Prime Minister Mark Carney hanging out at Premier Ford’s home in Etobicoke. Ford at Trillium Health Partners’ Diwali Gala and later, hoodie on at Humber College. It was wig day for Adil Shamji and Stephanie Smythe:
A new piece by Norval Morrisseau has been installed outside The Star’s bureau.
— Noted: The New Leaf Liberals are now on X.
Speaking of which: The group, which organized to oust Bonnie Crombie, has more in the tank. They’re hosting a November meet-up at 3 Brasseurs in Ottawa, pitching it as a chance to “hang out, meet friends new and old, and help us chart the future of the party.”
More events are coming, we’re told, with plans to create space for leadership candidates to engage the grassroots outside the party’s machinery.
On the record: “We are excited about the opportunity to work collaboratively to advance the Ontario Liberal Party so that whoever wins the next leadership election, they are in a position to take the fight to Doug Ford with a party capable of winning,” a spokesperson said.
— Noted: The University of Toronto Mississauga Students’ Union (UTMSU) is throwing a “Doug Ford Costume Contest,” as part of an advocacy week on Bill 33.
Recall: Earlier this month, the union landed in hot water for hosting a vigil commemorating Palestinian “martyrs,” which one group described as “rubbing salt into the wounds of our Jewish learners, staff, faculty and alumni.” Catch up.
— Meanwhile, a coalition of Muslim Student Associations are denouncing Energy Minister Stephen Lecce for labelling one club a “morally degenerate group.” “... We stand in full support of the UTM MSA as they take the necessary steps to defend themselves from defamatory allegations,” they wrote.
— An ex-aide to Michael Kerzner was caught “warning an 18-year-old volunteer against setting up a campus Conservative club, while claiming to speak on behalf of the [federal] party,” per a recording leaked to Rebel.
— Hired: Max Correia is Doug Ford’s new Executive Director of Marketing and Public Opinion Research. Announcement.
Klaus Reif of Reif Estate Winery has been appointed to the Niagara College’s board.
Michael Kraljevic, the chair of the Ontario Land Tribunal, is set to be appointed to Humber College’s board.
Simon Wolle is the new CEO of B’nai Brith Canada.
— Say hello to this year’s OLIP class: Noor Akrawi, Keana Cavero, Geneva Fuina, Giuliana Iacobucci, David Landry, Bianca Morelli, Eve Parry, Kewan Perera, Emily Yinchang Shi and Shakthi Suthakaran. More.
— Hiring: The Ontario PC Fund is looking for a fundraising associate. It’s an “entry-level position… ideal for someone eager to gain hands-on experience in fundraising, donor relations and event coordination.”
Nolan Quinn is on the hunt for a new policy director. Jennifer French is looking for a legislative assistant. France Gélinas is looking for a constituency assistant. So too is Peggy Sattler.
The Ontario Association of Social Workers is searching for a CEO.
— Episode 4 of The Premier Files is out, feat. Ernie Eaves.
— Premiering tonight at 8 p.m.: TVO’s The Rundown, hosted by Jeyan Jeganathan. “Produced by the award-winning team behind The Agenda, The Rundown delivers the same journalistic integrity and depth — now in a faster-paced format.” Promo.
— Danielle Smith is set to appear on the Travis Dhanraj-Karman Wong podcast, “Can’t Be Censored.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. What’s on your radar this fall? Got a boss driving you up the wall? Are you actually running for Liberal leader? Hit reply and you’ll stay anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.