Iain Rankin; photo courtesy Communications NS
Iain Rankin has announced he will be stepping down as leader of Nova Scotia’s Liberal party.
The former premier released a statement on Wednesday morning, saying he took time to reflect on his role over the holidays.
“Last year was a rollercoaster for all of us. Personally, my life went through many changes. Given the pace of 2021 and all the changes, this holiday season was my first chance to slow down, pause, and reflect,” Rankin says. “After having that time to reflect, I have decided that the best path forward for the Nova Scotia Liberal Party is to step down and make room for a new leader.”
The 38-year-old says he will stay on until a new leader is chosen.
Rankin was appointed the 29th premier of Nova Scotia early last year after winning the leadership race to take over from Stephen McNeil. The Liberal party was defeated in the August provincial election when the Progressive Conservatives won a majority government.
I want to thank all of you for your support, your time, and your encouragement over the last year. I know you are all facing a lot, but your involvement in the upcoming leadership race will be important for the future of our party.
8/9— Iain Rankin (@IainTRankin) January 5, 2022
Rankin’s decision to step down comes ahead of a required leadership review that was set for March during the Liberal party’s annual general meeting.
He plans to remain the MLA for Timberlea—Prospect.
“I will continue to serve the people of Timberlea-Prospect,” Rankin says. “We have a lot of good work left to do, and I want to help do the heavy lifting. This will allow me keep serving my constituents and delivering on important projects to our community.”
Rankin was first elected as the MLA for the area in 2013.
