Boris Johnson has withdrawn from the Tory leadership race. He announced it on Sunday in a statement.
Johnson, who resigned as Prime Minister in July, has emerged as one of Britain’s prime ministerial presidential candidates after Liz Truss he resigned on Thursday.
– Unfortunately I have come to the conclusion that it would not be the right thing to do. I think I have a lot to contribute, but I’m afraid it’s not the right time, Johnson says in a statement.
JOHNSON EXIT: Boris Johnson interrupted his Caribbean vacation to take the leadership, but is now stepping down. Photo: Toby Melville
Not enough votes
Johnson had second News from heaven public support from 59 conservative MPs, but had to reach 100 votes to continue the fight.
– I think I’m well positioned for a conservative victory in 2024, says Johnson, who claims he has achieved over 102 votes.
A candidate must have at least 100 signatures from Conservative MPs to be eligible to run. Signatures must be ready by Monday.
CANDIDATE: Rishi Sunak once again has the most votes. Photo: Justin Tallis
Sunak guides
This leaves Rishi Sunak as the big favorite to take over the leadership of the Conservative Party and become Prime Minister.
Sunak now leads with 144 votes, followed by Penny Mordaunt who received 24 votes.
It is up to the parliamentary representatives of the Conservative Party to nominate candidates for a new leader.
Over the weekend, Johnson was said to have tried to strike deals with the other two candidates in the leadership race, Rishi Sunak and Penny Mordaunt, but to no avail.
– We take nothing for granted, says a source close to Sunak BBC.
