A gathering of Ontario Conservative Party members are hoping for a jolt from leader John Tory at a special fundraiser in Toronto.
Bruce Grey Owen Sound MPP Bill Murdoch says its time for Tory to fire up the party whether through a rousing speech rallying the troops or an announcement of where he is going to run for a seat in the legislature.
He says that the fact Tory is not in the legislature is taking away from his effectiveness and power to rally the troops.
As to rumours that party officials are pressuring a sitting MPP to give up their seat to allow Tory to run in a by election, Murdoch says its not him.
He says one has approached him about stepping down, and he has looked at the list of 26 Conservative MPPs and cant think of one who would give up their seat for the leader.
Murdoch also says he doubts if Tory could even win in this riding because he says local voters don’t always appreciate an outsider coming in to run instead of a local candidate.
As for the support in the caucus for the Leader Murdoch says all the MPP still back the leader, but they also realize that in order for Tory to be effective as a leader he must be in the Legislature.
Tonights meeting will see backers pay up to 15 thousand dollars for the privilege of hearing the Conservative leader speak.
Murdoch hopes that they will get their money s worth with an exciting speech and possible announcement.
