Bains buzz, Bonnie backers and a surprise cameo

And the Ford loyalist you need to know

ABOVE THE FOLD

LIBERAL AGM DRAMA WATCH — Rumour mill alert! Supporters of NAVDEEP BAINS — yes, that Bains, the former federal minister and MP for Mississauga-Malton — have been ringing up card-carrying Liberals, testing the waters for a potential leadership bid if BONNIE CROMBIE can’t hang on to the captain’s seat at September’s annual general meeting.

I got Bains via text. His response? Hard deny: “I’m not involved in the OLP AGM and am not in the loop on what’s happening there.” Bains noted he’s getting his eldest kid packed up for university soon and is travelling, but seemed keen on a call after that, so I’ll update y’all if we ever do get on the line.

For all the Bains fans out there, he would be a solid contender for provincial leader. Not only was he pivotal in helping revive the federal Liberal party when JUSTIN TRUDEAU first came on to the scene, but he’s also got a solid lock on Mississauga and the 905, which is crucial territory in Ontario.

But but but: Team Bonnie has heard …