Of late, Toronto Mayor Rob Ford’s demeanor seems better suited for a rock star than a mayor. Despite, well, all we know now about Ford, one could be excused for thinking that Ford was on his way out of office, somehow. And that may still happen despite the defiant Ford’s promise to fight any efforts to force him out.
But, in a sign that the voters of Toronto are potentially the most sophisticated ballot-casters in the world and able to separate a politician’s personal shortcomings from his on-the-job performance, Ford’s approval rating–as of this past weekend–miraculously has held steady after the rock star-like, tabloid fuelled week that was for Ford.
Here’s more on Ford’s levitating numbers from the CBC:
Toronto mayor Rob Ford’s approval rating has apparently held steady despite a scandal-plagued week involving admissions of crack cocaine use, public intoxication and the release of a video of the mayor swearing violence against an unknown party. Forum Research pollster Lorne Bozinoff told CBC News Network on Saturday that Ford still enjoys a 44 per cent approval rating. Bozinoff has said the approval ratings appear to show that Torontonians are able to separate the mayor’s performance on the job from his private life.
A 44 percent approval rating isn’t the stuff that political dynasties are made of. But considering the circumstances, it could be worse. Far worse. Those numbers, however, aren’t to say that the good people of Toronto aren’t worried about the guy. “About two-thirds of those polled said they want him to resign or seek rehab,” according to the CBC.
On Tuesday, in a slightly less scientific bobblehead poll, Ford apparently hasn’t lost his absurdist, populist touch. According to the Toronto Star, hundreds of people, some queuing up as early as 5 a.m., waited in line for “Robbie Bobbie” bobblehead dolls fashioned in the likeness of their mayor. “Supporters and detractors alike of the mayor crowded city hall in lines that looped the rotunda multiple times, hoping to get a doll before all 1,000 sold out,” the Star reported. The proceeds from the $20 mayoral doll are to be donated to the United Way.
