Grits gear up, New Dems down play

And Ford's feeling positive

ABOVE THE FOLD

Loads of news over the weekend. Let’s get to it…

LIBERALS LOCK IN — Third time’s the charm? The Grits will hold their third leadership race in six years on November 21, as they look to get out of the electoral penalty box.

The rules: On Saturday, the party’s executive council released contest details — amid amplified pressure and scrutiny ever since BONNIE CROMBIE’s surprise early resignation last month — that includes a $150,000 entrance fee ($50K more than the last race) to be paid in instalments by October 30, and 250 signatures from card-carrying Grits, which needs to be submitted by July 31. Contestants will be able to spend up to $1 million on their campaigns.

Online voting will take place from November 9 to 20. The Liberals use a ranked ballot and a one-member, one-vote system — delegated conventions are long gone (and with them, much of the drama). Candidates can sign up new members until September 7 (or September 25 for campus clubs). There’s also a 25 per cent …