Amid media reports of alleged drug abuse and drunken rants, Toronto Mayor Rob Ford announced he would take a leave of absence from his re-election campaign to seek help for substance abuse. Here are some quotes related to the new developments:
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"I have a problem with alcohol, and the choices I have made while under the influence.... I have tried to deal with these issues by myself over the past year. I know that I need professional help and I am now 100% committed to getting myself right." Statement from Rob Ford
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"He realizes that he's not well and is in need of help. He's just running off the rails. That's something he now appreciates." Ford lawyer Dennis Morris
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"Rob was very emotional when he told me the hardest thing about this is he knows he let people down, he let his family down.... I love my brother. I’ll continue to stand by my brother and his family throughout this difficult journey." Ford's older brother Coun. Doug Ford
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"I am running against Mr. Ford because I find his comments hurtful, offensive. His attitude, his values, all of it is not bringing dignity to our city that we so deserve." Chief mayoral rival Olivia Chow
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"If Rob Ford was truly sorry he would have apologized to me last night and I’m not interested in an empty apology. We’ve heard too many of those." Mayoral candidate Karen Stintz
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"I wish him the best in his efforts to recover from his addictions, but I really don’t believe that the mayor can recover from the very disgraceful and disdainful conduct that he has exhibited over many, many years." Coun. Janet Davis