Pantalone scores big political strategist who helped Miller

John Laschinger, political strategist extraordinaire who commandeered David Miller's successful mayoral campaigns, confirms he has joined Deputy Mayor Joe Pantalone's team.

"I think he is the best candidate on the ballot," Mr. Laschinger said Friday. "I've listened to a number of the others talking about being managers, line by line review of the budget and sell off assets." He described Mr. Pantalone as "someone who wants to build the city, not just sell it off."

Mr. Laschinger decision to sign up as campaign chair — therefore, responsible for everything — signals that this might be it for big name left wingers jumping into the race. "There's been lots of talk about different names, some not very realistic. I've heard Olivia Chow and Jack Layton. Olivia is a big supporter of Joe and will support him," he said. "We're coming to the end of the dance in terms of anyone else coming in."

Mr. Laschinger said he has spoken to half a dozen other Miller supporters "who I consider to be valuable additions and they all indicated they will help" in Mr. Pantalone's campaign."

Mr. Pantalone's been criticized for a quiet start to his run for mayor, but voters already know where he stands on at least one big policy point, said Mr. Laschinger: "He's the only candidate who won't sell off all the crown jewels of the City of Toronto."

Rocco Rossi, who has embraced right of centre ideas, says he will sell off Toronto Hydro to pay off the city's debt, and will review other assets. George Smitherman has said he will review all assets before deciding which, if any, to sell.