Mike Bernier drops out of B.C. Liberal leadership race

Northern B.C. MLAMike Bernierhas announced he's dropping out of the provincial Liberal leadership race.

On Saturday, theformer education minister confirmed he was ending his campaign. Instead, he said he will be backing longtime MLAMike de Jong for leader instead as his campaign co-chair.

"He believes what I believe," Bernierwrote in a statement. "He has the financial track record that will build the prosperity we need to connect all British Columbians to the benefits that flow from a strong economy."

Bernier also thanked his family and campaign team for supporting him during his two-week run, which began Sept. 25.

Former transportation minister Todd Stone also running for Liberal party leadership thanked Bernier for his "dedication to B.C." in a tweet after the announcement. Other candidates also sent messages to Bernier over social media.

Remainingcandidates for the Liberal leadership includeSurrey MP Dianne Watts,Vancouver MLA Andrew Wilkinson andformer Vancouver mayor and current MLA Sam Sullivan. Newcomer MLA Michael Leeand Terrace businesswoman Lucy Sager arealso running.