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The online city database lists him as the principal of an Etobicoke-based firm called MDF Strategies, and shows that so far he has one client, a company called The company’s website describes it as a “global cybersecurity platform” that “integrates artificial intelligence to rapidly identify, assess, predict, and resolve cyber threats.”

As of Monday afternoon, Ford’s registration didn’t show any communications with city officials on behalf of Protexxa. It listed “an introduction to the company” as the purpose of any lobbying discussions.

Lobbying — communicating with public officials in an effort to influence their decisions — is considered a legitimate activity under the É«É«À² Municipal Code. To provide transparency, paid lobbyists are required to register with the lobbyist registrar, and disclose communications with council members and city staff.

It’s not uncommon for former elected officials to become city lobbyists. It’s less common for close relatives of a sitting premier.

Asked whether he was concerned that his relationship with the provincial leader could lead to the perception he was attempting to use his family ties to improperly influence city hall, Ford told the Star in a text message that he was complying with all lobbying rules. He said “at no point” has his work “involved any matters related to the provincial government,” either directly or indirectly, and it “will not on an ongoing basis.” 

Ford, who is now 31, was elected as Ontario PC MPP for York South—Weston in June 2022. Before that he served as a school trustee, and from 2016 to 2022 was on É«É«À² city council.

Three years ago the premier’s decision to appoint his then 28-year-old nephew as minister of citizenship and multiculturalism prompted accusations of nepotism, a charge both Fords rejected.

Last September, the younger Ford announced he was taking a leave of absence from the ministry for health reasons.

In January, . In a social media post at the time, he wrote that while he considered serving in public office “a true honour,” he had “made the decision to take on a new chapter.” 

On Monday, Ford told the Star that since deciding not to run for re-election he has been “doing very well,” and has been active in “various city-building initiatives” and non-profits. 

Ford is the son of Kathy Ford, the sister of the premier and the late É«É«À² mayor, Rob Ford.