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It’s a heady collection of government missteps, snafus and dishonesty, but perhaps the best news for Brown came from within Tory ranks. Doug Ford, brother of former Toronto mayor Rob, announced that he’s running for office … and the job he covets is as mayor of Toronto, not as a member of Brown’s caucus.

To say Brown has been keeping a low profile would understate how little Ontarians know of him

Brown has been Progressive Conservative leader for two years, and it hasn’t been an easy time. To say he’s been keeping a low profile would understate how little Ontarians know of him. He’s faced internal battles, not surprising in a party that has blown three straight elections against a beatable opponent. He’s in his first senior political job after nine years as a federal backbencher. And he’s up against a ruthless government willing to exploit every lever available to it—including access to public funds and advertising dollars—to tilt events in its own favour.

It’s something of a testament as to how disenchanted voters have become with the Liberals, then, that Brown’s party continues to lead in most polls. Ontarians have overlooked years of Liberal failures in rewarding them with repeated victories; perhaps they’re preparing to overlook some obvious Tory weaknesses as well. It’s certainly no sure thing, however, and the last thing Brown needed was another bombastic member of the Ford family spouting off from within his caucus.

“I am here to continue Rob’s legacy,” Ford declared in announcing his candidacy at a backyard barbecue in the family stronghold of Etobicoke. He rejected suggestions Brown was keen to keep him from campaigning for a provincial seat. “Total opposite,” he told the Toronto Star. “I’m welcome to run. They’re encouraging me to run.”