Adam Giambrone Drops Out of Mayoral Race

Adam Giambrone has dropped out of Toronto's mayoral race. In a brief press conference Giambrone apologized profusely to the community, his fellow councillors and young people before leaving the microphone to a flurry of questions from media in attendance.

It initially appeared that his apologetic statements would be the long and short of his announcement today. But roughly two minutes after Giambrone left the room, his executive assistant, Kevin Beaulieu, took to the stage and delivered the big news.

Although he will no longer be running for mayor, he plans to continue as the chair of the TTC.

It was a confusing scene, with indication that Giambrone would return to the microphone after his initial statements. But, ultimately, he was too emotional to so so.

His mayoralty campaign ends today," read Giambrone's assistant when it was clear he would not be making a return. "Beginning next week, he will return to his regular duties as a city councillor," he continued.

"It looks like he's been crying," noted CP24's Sue Sgambati.

Giambrone's press conference was a response to a Toronto Star article that revealed his relationship with a then 19-year-old Kristen Lucas.

He subsequently admitted to engaging in multiple affairs.

Prior to fleeing the stage, Giambrone managed to repeat a number of the apologies his issued yesterday.

"There are weeks that change your life, and this one has dramatically changed mine. This searing experience has taught me, I hope permanently, that a public career of integrity cannot survive deceit in your private life," said the beleaguered councillor. Full text of Giambrone's statement can be found here.

Despite Giambrone's intention to remain in his position as chair of the TTC, there is already considerable debate regarding his ability to do so in the wake of this week's events.

Citing a lack of leadership and fiscal responsibility, rather than what's being called a sex scandal, some councillors, including Rob Ford and Denzil Minnan-Wong, have already called for Giambrone to resign.

What do you think? Should he resign as chair of the TTC? Does this scandal permanently damage his credibility?

Update (1:05 p.m.)

Mayor David Miller has issued the following statement:

"Councillor Giambrone's decision to leave the mayoralty race is regrettable. His voice and the vision he could have brought to this important campaign will be missed but his decision to focus on his private life and his current duties is understandable."

The mayor's office has also indicated that "there will be no further comment on this matter."