Lambton-Kent-Middlesex MPP Monte McNaughton is not seeking the top spot for the Ontario PC Party.
McNaughton issued the news through a statement released on Tuesday evening.
“The last several days have been a tumultuous time for our party and for the broader conservative family,” McNaughton said.
“During this period I have heard from hundreds of supporters, friends and family members in ridings all across Ontario. I appreciate the wisdom and advice that has been shared with me, and more importantly, I appreciate the optimism and hope for our party and for our province.”
The Ontario PC Party were sent reeling last week when former leader Patrick Brown resigned, after allegations of sexual misconduct came to light.
Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli was named as the Interim leader for the party.
“The election officially begins 100 days from today so let us make no doubt about it: Ontario families cannot afford another four years of Kathleen Wynne and the Liberals,” McNaughton said.
“After reviewing the expedited timelines, financial and personal commitments required in order to not only mount a successful leadership campaign, but also a successful provincial election campaign, I have decided to focus my efforts on my local re-election campaign in Lambton—Kent—Middlesex and more broadly in working with Interim Leader Vic Fedeli, Party President Jag Badwal, our strong PC Caucus at Queen’s Park, and our outstanding Party Executive to strengthen and build our Party leading up to the June 7, 2018 Ontario election.”
McNaughton added: “I wish all contestants for the Leadership of the Ontario PC Party best wishes in the days and weeks ahead.”
McNaughton said only party members will be eligible to vote in the upcoming leadership campaign.
McNaughton did run unsuccessfully for the leadership spot back in 2015.
