Cabinet's rough hazing

And the call heard 'round the province

ABOVE THE FOLD

Questions and criticisms are swirling around DOUG FORD’s new cabinet, especially when it comes to the hot-potato housing file — but first: a bombshell behind-the-scenes story about a call between Canada’s most powerful Tory politicians that probably didn’t quite go as planned.

FRENEMIES — The Star’s got the skinny: “Conservative Leader PIERRE POILIEVRE called DOUG FORD to ask for his help in the upcoming federal election campaign, but the premier told him he would be too busy governing Ontario.” That call happened Monday, almost three whole weeks after the provincial election (during which federal Tories were out door-knocking for themselves).

Juicy tidbit: “Those privy to the chat said it was at times stilted and awkward because the two leaders have little personal rapport.” Details.

MORE MINISTERS, MORE PROBLEMS — Ford’s newly sworn cabinet already has their work cut out for them as reaction to the fresh and familiar faces pours in. Wednesday’s shuffle may have been a s…