Sarah Thomson's e-mail to John Tory, sent July 9
Dear John,
I was hoping we could meet and talk about this but haven't heard back from you...
John I have put a lot of time, my entire life for the past year, into this campaign. I am working very, very, hard to win. I have had some wonderful moments, I have learned a lot and am I even more determined to fix Toronto than when we first met for a coffee. When you said that I would gain so much from the experience, I didn't realize how much. Now I do -- it is amazing.
As the campaign grows I see that it isn't just about me. The relationships I have made are truly wonderful. Going through the challenges together with John - or as we call him "The Captain" - and sharing the ups and downs are memories I will treasure. John has put so much time into my campaign and his advice has proven extremely valuable. He truly knows his stuff and when I watched him speak at a fundraiser for me I realized how strong a leader he will be and how much he loves politics. When I talked to him about running in the next Federal election he brushes the idea away and trys to hide his desire. I believe he is ready to enter politics, but something is holding him back, he says he doesn't have the money. I think he worries that you are not ready to step out of the spotlight and your image will overshadow him.
I believe John is ready, he is able, he will be an amazing leader in Canada, but he needs to get started, he needs a kick in the pants -- and you need to give it to him. I will be there for him and support his campaign all I can, but I believe it is his time to enter the spotlight and John you need to support him in this.
I've learned the male pride is a tender issue so I have not pushed John on this, and I know from my own family that it is often hard for sons to compete with thier fathers for the stage.
I must admit that I write this for completely self-interested reasons of course... I'm finding that although people want to support me financially they are waiting until September to see if you need their donations. I know that you don't to intend this, but your lack of directness on this issue is indirectly hurting my campaign. If you do step into the race in September both John and George will have to leave my campaign to join you, at a time when I will need them most.
I have had another offer from an experienced campaign manager. I am committed to George and I truly do look forward to working with him. Both George and John have committed their time and reputations to my campaign... but with all this talk of you running, I must know from you (confidentially of course) that you will not completely trample over all our hard work by suddenly changing your mind and announcing your candidacy.
All the best,
Sarah
John Tory's reply to Sarah Thomson, sent July 13:
Sorry to be a while replying Sarah. When you said you were hoping to meet and hadn't heard back, I have received no message concerning such a meeting. I have been responsive to prior requests for meetings with you and all of the candidates when asked.
Thank you for the kind words about John. Naturally any father is proud of his children as I am of ours. He is smart and considerate, a wonderful father but most of all a very kind person though with his mom's rapier wit! I know of his interest in politics both as an advisor and perhaps as a candidate and I am proud of that though mindful of the trials of public life. I have not discouraged him though I have said to him that I thought a few more years and a bit more financial security might be best. Your message will cause me to tell him that my political activity of any kind shouldn't impact on anything he wants to do. It should be based solely on what is best for him. I appreciate your giving me a heads up that maybe he needs that message reinforced. Frankly it is my reputation which might impede him as opposed to the reverse!!
With regard to john and George and their activity with you and how my decisions might impact on that, I should say a couple of things. First, they asked me before signing on with you and I said yes. They are respectful enough of my various options and even my desire to be seen to be neutral to do(or not do) whatever I wished. I expressly said it was fine with me if they helped you.
Second, they are my sons. While I don't necessarily deserve it I have the loyalty of our sons whatever I choose to do and I am grateful for that.
Third, I have to make decisions about my own future in business or broadcasting or politics based on a variety of considerations including what is best for our family, but unfortunately I can't do it on the basis of what would be best, timing or substance, for another candidate in the case of politics or another business person if I was for example, considering a board appointment.
I am mindful of the unique situation which exists here for you in particular and I guess being mindful of it is all I can do. I think you have to canvass every possibility and then decide your own final plans on what you think is best.
I know how hard you have worked as I myself have run for Mayor as you know. I very much respect the way you have run and the growth that has taken place thus far in the campaign.
Your message re my plans is not lost on me in any respect. I wish I could say "therefore I will do this or that tomorrow" but I can't. But the message is received and understood.
I hope you understand yours is not a simple message to reply to, at least the part about me and my plans as distinct from the part about John.
Best,
John