The Conservatives have a powerful new candidate in the GTA.
On Tuesday, the province’s former top cop, Julian Fantino, confirmed he’s seeking the Conservative nomination to run in the federal riding of Vaughan in an upcoming by-election.
Fantino could provide a big boost for the Conservatives in the GTA. He’s a well-known and widely respected figure after serving as chief of police for the York Regional, Toronto and provincial forces. He led the OPP from 2006 to his retirement this August.
An official date hasn’t been set yet, but it’s believed the by-election will be called for some time in November.
Fantino made his announcement at the Famee Furlane on Islington Avenue. He’s expected to hold a kick-off party Friday night at a banquet hall in Vaughan and Prime Minister Stephen Harper is expected to attend.
The former police chief is hoping to win the seat Liberal Maurizio Bevilacqua held for 22 years. Bevilacqua left the federal post to run for mayor in Vaughan.
Fantino was courted by both the federal and provincial Tories. If he wins the seat in Vaughan for the Conservatives, it’s widely expected he’ll be handed a cabinet post.
