A mayoral debate hosted by a Toronto community group became heated even before the candidates took to the floor Monday evening after Rob Ford's camp pushed through the doors of the event with more than one campaign team member, against the organizer's rules.
The debate, hosted by Parkview Hills Community, was being held in Presteign-Woodbine United Church. Space in the building was limited and seating was reserved for residents in the neighbourhood. Candidates were also only allowed to bring in one campaign team member, but Ford’s brother Coun. Doug Ford insisted that he and the mayor’s communications person, Amin Massoudi, be allowed inside.
“No, he’s coming in,” Doug Ford can be heard telling an organizer prior to the start of the debate. He then accuses Parkview president Justin Van Dette of being biased because he supports John Tory. “You can have your biased debate. You’re part of the John Tory campaign.”
Van Dette responds to Ford, saying that the debate is being held for the community: “There is a media panel that is running the debate. This is a debate and this is an opportunity for the community to attend.”
Toronto police were called to the event shortly after.
The debate ended shortly after 9 p.m. Ford, Tory, Olivia Chow and David Soknacki participated in the event.
