Kamloops-South Thompson MLA Todd Stone says he won’t take a second run for leadership within the BC Liberal Party.

Stone was contemplating a run for leadership after Andrew Wilkinson stepped down, following a disappointing result for the party in last fall’s provincial election where it lost 13 seats in the BC Legislature.

He says he had engaged with hundreds of British Columbians and that a “talented, growing campaign team” was ready to go if he was willing to seek leadership.

He had told NL News he would take the Christmas break to decide with family whether or not to run.

“I was struck by the reality that within the next few years, two of them may be off at university and that this period of our lives with all of us together at home is nearer the end than the beginning. I realized at that moment – in my heart – that the right decision for me and my family is to not enter this leadership race.”

Stone finished fourth on the ballot in the party’s leadership race in 2018.

He says the Liberals need to continue to focus on appealing to all residents, which follows scandals from several candidates in the lead-up to the October election.

“We must challenge ourselves to inspire more women and young people to join us, and to ensure our party reflects British Columbia’s incredible diversity. BIPOC members, LGBTQ members. Young and old, urban and rural, coastal and interior. If we want to be the party for all British Columbians, then all British Columbians need to know that their voices, their views, and their priorities are reflected in what we stand for.”

The BC Liberals leadership convention is expected to happen later this year. For now, Prince George – Valemount MLA Shirley Bond remains interim caucus leader.

After much consideration, I have decided that I will not be a candidate to be the next leader of the BC Liberal Party. #bcpoli For my full statement click here: https://t.co/msw9k26oCy

— Todd Stone (@toddstonebc) January 14, 2021