Many observers expect Premier Doug Ford to apologize for his harsh words directed at Liberal MPP Stephanie Smyth during question period on Thursday. However, some are asking whether Smyth also owes an apology for her own remarks.
The Exchange That Sparked Controversy
During question period, Smyth, the MPP for St. Paul's, not only questioned Ford but also made a gesture by moving her arms like an airplane, seemingly mocking the premier over the corporate jet controversy. This gesture, while not recorded in Hansard, appeared to irritate Ford.
Ford responded sharply: "You know why the member is down here? Because CP24 didn't want her anymore. Bottom line. Simple. That's why she is down here. She was just a promoter for the Liberal agenda, NDP agenda when she was doing interviews."
Smyth's Reaction
Smyth, a former journalist, expressed offense at Ford's comments. "You shouldn't talk to anybody that way," she told reporters. "There's a standard of decorum, of how you act. When we get in and we talk about issues and we ask questions, you don't go personal, right? That's not the place."
However, Smyth herself has made personal remarks about Ford. In recent weeks, she has mocked the premier, using phrases like "the cheese is slipping off the cracker" and suggesting "something isn't right with him." These comments were made during scrums outside the chamber.
A Two-Way Street
While Ford's comments about Smyth's departure from CP24 were personal, Smyth's remarks about Ford's mental acuity could be seen as equally inappropriate. The media has largely portrayed Ford as the aggressor and Smyth as the victim, but the full context suggests both parties engaged in personal attacks.
Ford would be wise to apologize for his remarks, acknowledging that Smyth is at Queen's Park because her constituents elected her. However, Smyth should also develop thicker skin and refrain from personal insults. If an apology is owed to Smyth, one is also owed to Ford.
The incident highlights the need for decorum and respect in political discourse, regardless of party lines.
