Federal Labor Minister Stephen McKinnon announced on social media Sunday morning that he will not run to replace Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as leader of the Liberal Party of Canada.
McKinnon said in a statement posted on his I believe I can become one.” “Unfortunately, time constraints do not allow us to run the kind of campaign we would like to run.”
In a statement Sunday, the minister said he “continues to give the utmost attention” to his responsibilities as a minister and to representing his constituents in Gatineau’s riding, and that the federal government looks forward to “requesting their trust once again.” He said he is doing so. Elections are approaching.
Mr McKinnon is the latest in a string of federal ministers to decline to take part in this year’s Liberal leadership contest. Since Trudeau announced his resignation as party leader on Monday, Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc, Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly and Transport Minister Anita Anand have announced on social media that they will not run.
“I commend all those who have considered or are considering participating in the leadership race,” McKinnon wrote on Sunday. “Liberals across Canada have high hopes. I am heartened by hearing their voices. They deserve a real debate, a wide range of choices, and a clear direction for our country. Like them, I will listen carefully and make informed policy choices. “
This is a developing story. More details to come…
