Christine Elliott — the widow of former federal finance minister Jim Flaherty — has called a news conference for Wednesday when it’s expected that she’ll announce her intention to run for the leadership of Ontario’s Progressive Conservatives.

Elliott will enter the race to succeed Tim Hudak, who will step down as PC leader when the legislature resumes on July 2.

RELATED

Lisa Raitt being wooed to run for Ontario PC leader

Elliott finished third when Hudak won the Tory leadership race in 2009. Flaherty failed in bids in 2002 and 2004 to lead the Ontario Tories.

Her name was put forward as a possible favourite to replace Hudak after he announced he was stepping down following the crushing defeat of his party in the June 12 election.

Elliott is deputy leader of the party and has served as critic for the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care and Mental Health Reform.