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Yvonne Jones, MHA for the District of Cartwright-L’Anse au Clair, says while
she is flattered by the level of support encouraging her to run for the
leadership of the Liberal Party of Newfoundland and Labrador, she has
decided not to run at this time.
"After a lot of deliberation and considering my options, I have decided
not to run at this time for the leadership of our party," said Ms. Jones. "I
am flattered to have been asked and encouraged by so many Liberals across
Newfoundland and Labrador to make a run, and this shows the interest that
exists in our party.
Jones says the outpouring of support from her district was overwhelming
and very much appreciated, but while she was eager for the challenge, she
also knows it is not in the best interest of the Liberal Party overall.
Jones says a leadership race would have candidates drying up potential
financial goodwill that exists for the Liberal Party, making it very
difficult afterwards to pay down the party debt and get a war chest in place
for the next election.
"At this time, I have chosen to commit my energy towards the needs of my
district and helping the party organize for the next election. Jim Bennett
has indicated his full commitment to rebuilding the party and paying down
the debt, and I believe this is what Liberals need to focus on now. After
several discussions with Jim over the weekend, I feel he is ready to get to
the task at hand immediately. While Jim will be new to the position, he does
have a very experienced caucus to support him and some of the most dedicated
staff and volunteers in the province through the Liberal Party."
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