Ralph Benmergui leaves radio for politics

Ralph Benmergui is leaving his radio show behind to devote himself full time to politics.

The former CBC host's last broadcast as host of JAZZ FM91's morning show aired Friday.

Mr. Benmergui has been working for months for Research and Innovation Minister Glen Murray, but it wasn't officially confirmed until Friday that he had accepted a job as Mr. Murray's director of communications.

Last month, the rookie cabinet minister landed in hot water for sending a tweet that called Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Ontario Conservative Leader Tim Hudak and Toronto mayor-elect Rob Ford bigots.

Mr. Benmergui was on hand at the legislature to offer assistance when Mr. Murray needed help answering questions from reporters.

After three days of mea culpas that suggested that Conservatives are anti-gay, Mr. Murray finally offered a straightforward apology that satisfied Mr. Hudak.