The field for the Alberta Progressive Conservative leadership race appears to be thinning, after former Municipal Affairs minister Ken Hughes said Monday morning he is bowing out of the race.

Hughes said he entered the race in good faith and had planned to stay in it until a winner is declared in September. In a statement, Hughes said he would support Jim Prentice's bid to become the party's leader.

"After listening to many Albertans, it became clear there is a growing consensus that Jim Prentice is the leader Alberta needs now," Hughes said in his statement.

"I look forward to working side by side with Jim Prentice to rebuild our party, to invite Albertans to work with us, and to provide the best possible alternative at the next election."

Hughes' announcement came hours after Jonathan Denis said he would not seek the leadership, also throwing his support behind Prentice.

“I have decided that I will not be standing as a candidate in the 2014 Progressive Conservative leadership race,” Denis said.

Denis said in a release that he had talked to residents of Calgary-Acadia as well as people across Alberta about the future of the province, and was grateful for the support he’s received to seek the party leadership.

“I extend thanks to the people who have expressed their support, personally and financially, as well as the members of caucus who had encouraged me to run. I wish the best to all candidates,” he said.

With Hughes' announcement, the only candidate officially in the race so far is former infrastructure minister Ric McIver.

Prentice indicated weeks ago that he was putting together a team to look into running for the leadership, and is expected to make it official soon.

“Our team has heard from many Albertans who want a leader with a vision of smaller government, safer communities, and living within our means. I believe Jim Prentice shares this perspective. I will be supporting him for leader of our party, and our next Premier,” Denis said.

Finance Minister Doug Horner also decided last week not to seek the leadership saying he will support a candidate who has still not “officially” declared his candidacy.

Alberta Jobs Minister Thomas Lukaszuk said he will make his intentions known early this week.

Alberta Conservatives will elect their new leader in September.

Hughes Statement May 12-2014 (4) by KeHughesAB