Behind The Mic With Joe Mathieu: Toronto Mayor Rewriting The Book On Redemption?

BOSTON (CBS) - I've covered politics for some time but never really thought I would be talking about a city official in Toronto.

But I just can't ignore Mayor Rob Ford any longer. The man is rewriting the book on political scandals, denials and apologies.

And so far, political survival.

Look, the guy admitted to smoking crack. And his excuse was that he was in a drunken stupor when it happened. Just imagine for a minute if your mayor tried that.

Ford still says he's not going anywhere. Even as the Toronto City Council prepares to hear a motion Wednesday that would call on the mayor to take a leave of absence.

And the amazing thing here is that a large number of voters still support Rob Ford. They make up what's being called "Ford Nation."

Seriously.

Indeed a poll by the CBC finds Mayor Ford enjoys a 44-percent approval rating. But before you start worrying about our Neighbors to the North you should know the vast majority still wants Ford to step down or seek rehab - even those who like him - suggesting an opportunity for redemption.

In fact, Ford may want to learn from another crack smoking mayor, Marion Barry who did go to rehab and prison and still got his job back.

Follow Joe on Twitter @joemathieuwbz

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