Toronto Mayor Still Popular Despite Crack Controversy

Rob Ford admits to smoking crack cocaine

As Toronto Mayor Rob Ford admits smoking crack cocaine, Canada-based journalist Lorraine Mallinder ponders why his approval ratings actually went up despite the scandal engulfing city hall.

Love him or loathe him, Rob Ford is not your typical politician.

While allegations of crack-smoking might see most politicians ducking for cover, the mayor of Toronto instead admitted taking the drug in a "drunken stupor" and called on local police to distribute the footage.

"Yes, I have smoked crack cocaine," Mr Ford said outside his office.