Rob Ford

Rob Ford was a Canadian municipal politician and businessman who served as the 64th mayor of Toronto from 2010 to 2014.

Rob Ford was a Canadian municipal politician and businessman who served as the 64th mayor of Toronto from 2010 to 2014. He became one of Canada’s most polarizing political figures because of his populist style, fiscal conservatism, and a series of public scandals. He died in 2016 after being diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer in 2014.

Early life and political career

Rob Ford was born in Etobicoke in 1969 and entered municipal politics as a Toronto city councillor in 2000. He built a public profile as a suburban, cost-cutting conservative voice before running for mayor.

Mayor of Toronto

Ford served one term as mayor from December 1, 2010, to November 30, 2014. His administration was defined by budget restraint, disputes with council, and an outsider-style political brand.

Scandals and public attention

Ford’s mayoralty drew international coverage because of controversies involving alcohol, drugs, and offensive comments. The crack cocaine video scandal and related fallout made him a widely recognized figure beyond Toronto.

Illness and death

In 2014, Ford was diagnosed with liposarcoma, which ended his re-election campaign. He died in 2016 after battling cancer, and his death was widely reported in Canadian and international media.