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Fraser not likely ro run for NDP leadership

Alberni-Pacific Rim MLA says he has heard there is interest from federal politicians for the B.C. party's leadership

Alberni-Pacific Rim MLA Scott Fraser says he doubts he will consider a run for the leadership of the NDP.

That said, he hasn't entirely ruled it out.

"It has come up a number of times," he said. "I have been getting phone calls from individuals and groups asking if I would consider it, but it has never been my plan. I very much love the job of representing the people of Alberni-Pacific Rim and the leadership role is a completely different job — one that I'm not sure I want to do. I'm pretty sure it isn't."

When asked who he would support for leader, Fraser said he isn't aware of anyone putting their name forward to date.

"There has been a lot of speculation," he said. "The last time around I supported John Horgan, but I don't know if he is going to run. We certainly fought a lot of battles together and we work well together."

Fraser said there has been some speculation that some federal MPs might put their name forward.

"Nathan Cullen has been mentioned as a possibility," he said. "We have some new members of our caucus, too and there has been speculation about getting some new blood in. That may be appropriate. I don't know."

Regardless of who grasps for the brass ring, Fraser said the outgoing leader has his ongoing admiration and respect.

"I have never seen a more effective MLA — from any political stripe — than Adrian Dix," he said. "He's  a force of nature. He has endless energy. He's staying on as an MLA and will do everything he can to help win the next election. That was a relief."