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As part of a renewed Liberal Party – one that would do politics transparently and democratically – we were promised open nominations. However events over the past few weeks have led me to decide that this nomination process has been a de facto appointment. While it’s the leader’s prerogative to recruit and select candidates, the clear identification of favoured candidates creates an imbalance in support that is difficult to overcome for other candidates. Further, the nomination rules for Trinity-Spadina were changed so that all candidates received the membership lists and forms prior to being green lit, which provided Adam Vaughan with critical information that all candidates had waited several weeks to receive. Regardless of the outcome, these circumstances have not been consistent with an open nomination process.

The rebuilding of the Liberal Party requires the empowerment of its membership. I will continue to advocate for a party that is inclusive, fair and transparent and that conducts itself in a way that will inspire Canadians and earn their trust. To that end, I will no longer participate in this nomination process as it has not been consistent with those values.

I would like to take this opportunity to express a sincere “thank you” to my many volunteers and supporters for their hard work and inspiring faith in me over these past several weeks.

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Ryan Davey announced Wednesday night that he is pulling the plug on his hopes to represent the party in the upcoming byelection to replace former NDP MP Olivia Chow in the Toronto riding of Trinity-Spadina.