Brad Duguid's statement on Liberal Leadership

The following is a copy of the email Ontario Economic Development Minister Brad Duguid sent to his supporters - myself included - on the subject of leadership of the Ontario Liberal Party.

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After giving it careful consideration, I have decided to continue with my current responsibilities and therefore will not be seeking the Leadership of our Party.

I want to thank my family, my constituents, and all those who encouraged me to put my name forward.

After careful thought I determined that the timing for me was simply not right.

As a father to two teenagers, I can tell you they’re really not begging to spend more time with Dad!
But as many of you know, they’re in their formative years and have some important decisions to make in terms of what's next for them after high school.
And I think it’s important for me to be there for them when they need me.

I want to assure my constituents in Scarborough Centre, my colleagues here at Queen’s Park, Liberals, and Ontarians that I am inspired and enthusiastic about the opportunity Ontario Liberals are going to have in the months to come to renew our Party, our government and our passion to lead Ontario forward.

I intend to run in the next election in Scarborough Centre and I look forward to working with the next Liberal Premier.

I am also not endorsing anybody today, and instead will take some time to consult with my riding association on what we want to see in the next Leader.

Thank you.

Brad Duguid

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I have to say I'm disappointed by my former boss' decision. I believe he would have made a fantastic Premier. But his decision is understandable.