Once upon a time a citizen entered politics after some success in life to serve the people. Today it is done to find a more secure job with a $100,000 pay increase.

This is the most important part of the story to me:

"Rob Duffy, CTV News’ communications manager, said in a statement that the network removed Johnson from any on-air or editorial duties after she told them she was considering running for council."

OK, that's fair. If I read that correctly, she will no longer be on air. So what will she do at CTV News in the meantime? The elections are still a long way away and no one should be forced to give up their current gig to run for office. Is she planning on taking a leave of absence while she campaigns, as Greg Brady did with AM640, or will she be working behind-the-scenes in the newsroom? 

And is her job waiting for her if she doesn't win, as was also the case for Brady?

TomTV wrote:

The CTV noon hour announcement about her political run ended with a somewhat ominous-sounding "We thank Natalie for her many contributions over her 19 years at CTV News as she pursues this new opportunity." 

That sounded more like a farewell, not a "you'll see her again in the future" announcement. Given her long-time public exposure on TV and many charitable contributions (Easter Seals), she has a favorable enough reputation that she can probably win the seat. Financially speaking, it has got to be more lucrative than being a news reporter these days. 

I saw that, too. It certainly made it sound like she wasn't at CTV anymore and if she's not bring used on-air or in an editorial capacity, what, exactly would her job be there? I also think she'll win given her high profile. People often vote for well known names, no matter the issues. But if not, will they welcome her back?

Here's the full statement.

Oh well, I guess she accepts whatever CTV will do with (to) her.
Also the uncertainty of politics.
What if she loses in the election?
What if she gets elected but is defeated next time?
What was she being paid at CTV.
I'm sure it was not dirt but maybe not 170 grand plus benefits.

CTV wrote a good farewell for her, but they did focus on her time in Ottawa, working for CTV National. So, I am wondering if becoming a City Councillor is a stepping stone to bigger things like being an MP and going back to Ottawa.

mace wrote:

Shorty Wave wrote:

CTV journalist, Natalie Johnson, has decided to get into municipal politics, which is becoming a trend of late! She is running in Beaches-East York, hoping to replace incumbent Brad Bradford, who is running for mayor. Short article linked.


https://share.google/jclQ9PrTxbvHNm3C9

Paywall for me.

Try this.