WATCH: Heckler removed during heated moment in Scarborough debate

WATCH ABOVE: A man in attendance at a mayoral debate in Scarborough is removed after shouting at candidates.

TORONTO – Mayoral candidates John Tory, Doug Ford and Olivia Chow squared off Tuesday evening in a debate that looked at transit and job creation in Scarborough, but it was a question about the image of Toronto’s leadership that led to the evening’s most fiery exchange.

In a question submitted through Twitter, one viewer asked, “How will the different leaders work to restore Toronto’s tainted leadership image experienced around the world?”

READ MORE: Tory, Ford, Chow debate ‘neglect’ of Scarborough, tout transit plans

Tory answered first, saying “showing respect” and “following the rules” were the most fundamental ways to restore the image of Toronto leadership. He added that there’s “no doubt this city’s leadership has suffered over the last two years.”

Ford responded to the question, directed at the scandals surrounding his brother Rob Ford, saying, “I’m proud of Rob for going to get help and curbing his addiction.” He added “70 per cent” of the audience is related to or knows someone who has a problem with addiction.

WATCH: Heckler removed from mayoral debate after yelling at Chow and Tory

Before Ford could continue, a heckler shouted “Shame! Shame!” The moderator, Global News anchor Leslie Roberts, asked for silence.

“Was it embarrassing for Rob Ford? Yes,” said Ford. “Did it hurt the city’s numbers? Not at all.”

As Chow began responding a second heckler began shouting from the audience.

“Partisan politics, that’s what your husband told us when we lost our home,” said the unidentified man.

“Please don’t do that. I get that it is an emotional issue and we’re trying to get concrete answers to help you,” Roberts told the heckler.

READ MORE: Scarborough transit users are close to home commuters

“She says she’s for people. We went to her when we lost our home to beg and she did nothing for us,” he said.

Despite repeated requests to remain silent, the irate heckler continued to berate candidates Tory and Chow before leaving.

“It really doesn’t reflect well on this incredible city, and I think we need to hold our opinions in check,” Roberts said as the heckler was escorted away. “We’re not here to start pointing fingers. We are here to make the city better. We deserve better.”