Former mayor David Crombie endorses George Smitherman
Posted October 22, 2010 12:18 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
TORONTO, Ont. – Former mayor David Crombie endorsed mayoral candidate George Smitherman, Friday, in the Toronto mayoral race.
The endorsement comes as recent polls suggest Smitherman is running neck and neck with Rob Ford in the home stretch to Monday’s civic elections. Joe Pantalone is a distant third.
Speaking at Mel Lastman Square, Crombie — known as Toronto’s “tiny perfect mayor” — said Smitherman will help sustain Toronto’s economic growth and bridge what he called a community disconnect.
“We also need to make sure that we continue the city-building that has made this place the place that people want to come to to raise their family,” Crombie said.
“In my judgement, George Smitherman gives us that opportunity. He can help take us where we need to go for the next four years.”
At the news conference, Crombie said he will serve as a special advisor, responsible for planning community hubs, if Smitherman is elected mayor.
The former mayor said he traditionally does not endorse candidates, but has since changed his mind, saying that the “stakes are high.”
Crombie served as Toronto’s mayor from 1972-78. He later became a federal Tory cabinet minister.
