October 25, 2010
Stepping down was not an easy decision, especially with the growth in ego required to lead and protect a campaign. But with only two staff, two full-time volunteers, and no funds my chances of winning were slim given the fact that the other leading teams had over 20 staff and even more volunteers. That we made it up to third place at one point was a huge achievement that shows the amazing talent I had on my team.
I ran for Mayor because I was fed up with the status quo, the locked doors at city hall, the lack of long-term vision, and the wasteful spending. I ran because I believe that the people of Toronto deserve an expanded subway system that would enable us to achieve so much more. I ran because I love Toronto.
I stepped down because I love Toronto.
With over 80 per cent of my support coming from Toronto’s left-leaning voters, I was creating a division. If I remained in the race the left wing vote would be split between myself, George Smitherman, and Joe Pantelone – giving Rob Ford an easy win and leaving Toronto without the expanded transit system we so desperately need.
I could not do that to my city.
Over the months I’ve watched the top four candidates closely both on- and off-stage to the point where I know their stump speeches so well I can repeat them. I can tell when Joe needs more sleep or when something is amiss on Rocco’s campaign just from the way they answer debate questions. I grew to respect George Smitherman and found his budget blueprint to be a smart, balanced plan. Like me, George believes in expanding our transit system to strengthen our economy. He understands that our diversity is our strength, and that we must make Toronto into a much more efficient business-friendly city. George has the vision Toronto needs to excel forward.
I hope my sacrifice will be enough to get George elected, but male pride could be the wedge that guarantees Ford a win. Joe Pantelone is a kind and friendly man, but he refuses to acknowledge that anything is wrong with city hall and that people are angry about it. That Miller chose to endorse him to try to protect his own legacy may very well backfire by splitting the left wing vote thus guaranteeing Ford a victory.
Gentlemen, don’t let the glory of winning get in the way of doing what is best for Toronto. Joe, if George is still ahead of you in the polls by the 18th, as he has been this entire campaign, I implore you to put Toronto before yourself and stand behind him as I have. It is the right, reasonable, and responsible thing to do for our city.
It was an honour to be a candidate for Mayor of Toronto, and I was very fortunate to have such an amazing experience. I set out knowing that I had much to learn. Over the months I made mistakes, had some achievements, and learned a great deal about people. I learned to have a sense of responsibility when dealing with the press and to be careful about late night tweets after a glass of wine.
Again thank you to those who considered supporting me as Mayor. I will work to give all I can to strengthening our city in other ways.
