Doug Ford has revealed an unlikely endorsement from one of his chief rivals vying to be elected Toronto mayor, John Tory.
At a press conference, Ford mentioned that other mayoral candidates had been boasting of their high-profile political endorsements, but said he was running unswayed by the lobbyists and politicians he called "the privileged few."
"Friends, these political endorsements can come with a price, a hefty price, to the taxpayers," Ford told reporters at his campaign headquarters Tuesday morning.
Ford said he’s relying on the endorsements of voters, but nevertheless had one "glowing" political supporter to reveal.
He then read from a Toronto newspaper article published on July 30, 2010.
"Doug is a smart, button-down, no-nonsense businessperson," Ford said, reading his rival's remarks to the paper.
"If you were looking for a better-run government, Doug Ford is certainly the kind of person you would want."
Ford omitted the part of the quote where Tory said he had "less of a personality" than his brother Toronto Mayor Rob Ford.
Tory’s recommendation features in a new Ford campaign ad.
On Monday and Tuesday, Tory and Chow both announced endorsements from politicians.
Tory was endorsed by federal Transport Minister Lisa Raitt, who told media that "Toronto needs John Tory."
Tory had previously touted the support of Jim Harris, former leader of the Green Party of Canada, as well as federal Liberal MPs John McKay and Arnold Chan.
On Tuesday morning, current Green Party Leader Elizabeth May announced her support for Chow, calling the candidate "a mayor who works."
City councillors Paula Fletcher, Janet Davis and Sarah Doucette have endorsed Chow, while councillors Jaye Robinson and Denzil Minnan-Wong endorsed Tory.
