Nova Scotia Liberal MP Jaime Battiste is dropping out of the federal Liberal leadership race.
The member for Sydney-Victoria says in a statement he will endorse former Bank of Canada governor, Mark Carney.
“After careful consideration and many discussions, I believe the best way forward to advocate and advance the priorities, which I outlined earlier this week during my campaign, of advancing reconciliation, protecting our environment and an affordable Canada by addressing the wealth gap, is to support Mark Carney for the Liberal Party of Canada Leadership and Prime Minister of Canada.”
Battiste is a member of the Eskasoni First Nation and was first elected in 2019.
He thanks all those who have supported him including Indigenous leaders, friends, family and community members.
“Over the last several weeks this campaign has made Canadian history by having the first Indigenous candidate for the Liberal Party of Canada leadership. I am proud that I am able to pave the way for future generations to continue the momentum forward.”
He says he excited to work with Mark and for the next chapter of the leadership race.
“In endorsing Mark, my fight is not over- it is only just beginning!”
Battiste joined the race on January 23.
Five candidates remain:
Mark Carney, Chrystia Freeland, Karina Gould, Frank Baylis and Ruby Dhalla
