A spokesperson for embattled former PC leader Patrick Brown denying a report he is bowing out of the party's leadership race.
The denial comes after CityNews quoting unnamed sources says Brown is considering pulling out after his friends and girlfriend received threats.
The source also says Brown's mother has been hospitalized due to stress.
A spokesperson for the leadership hopeful says "It's up to the media to end the speculation that they've stirred up. Patrick won't be commenting any further. Yes Patrick and his family have been forced to endure attacks on their character, malicious gossip and threats. This is not news but something that's very painful for the family and for Patrick"
On Friday, Brown filed notice of libel to CTV News, which first reported allegations of sexual misconduct, prompting Brown to resign as party leader.
Brown later decided to enter the Tory leadership race in an effort to win back his old job.
The notice names the network, its parent company Bell Media, the president of CTV News, anchor Lisa LaFlamme and others who worked on the story.
CTV says it stands by its reporting and will defend its journalism in court.