TERRACE, B.C. — The field of hopefuls for the leadership of British Columbia's Liberal party has been cut by one.
Businesswoman Lucy Sager from Terrace has dropped out of the race and says she is throwing her support behind federal Conservative member of Parliament and former Surrey mayor Dianne Watts.
A news release issued by Sager says she wants to focus on her family and is suspending her campaign due to a number of "recent personal setbacks."
It says she decided to run because B.C. needs a leader who can champion resource development, affordability and compassion for those struggling to make a better life in the province.
Sager says Watts brings a wealth of experience and shares the vision that British Columbia is stronger when everyone works together.
Thanks @sager_lucy for joining my team. Big advocate for northern BC, shares free enterprise ideals & grassroots values. Welcome Lucy! pic.twitter.com/DiVvkwS2MR
— Dianne Watts (@DianneWatts4BC) November 2, 2017
Besides Watts, six others are seeking the leadership.
They are elected B.C. Liberals Todd Stone, Andrew Wilkinson, Mike de Jong, Michael Lee and Sam Sullivan, as well as former Conservative MP Gurmant Grewal.
The second of six leadership debates is set for Saturday in Prince George.
B.C. Liberals are to select their replacement for former leader Christy Clark during online and telephone voting in early February.
