Harper’s top aide steps down

As Tories slump in summer polls, sources say Guy Giorno will resign.

t’s been a politically damaging summer for the Conservatives, who have seen the 10-point lead they held over the Liberals last fall evaporate thanks to a slew of costly mistakes which include the census debacle, criticism from the veteran’s ombudsman, and the expensive G20 summit. Stephen Harper’s chief of staff Guy Giorno appears to be collateral damage of those mistakes, and sources say he will be stepping down at the end of the year. Giorno, who was also an adviser to Ontario Premier Mike Harris, is regarded by many as an aggressive neoconservative who relishes trashing his opponents. His departure signals the Conservative’s intention to alter strategies before a possible spring election.