Powell River-Sunshine Coast MLA Nicholas Simons is withdrawing from the race to lead the British Columbia New Democratic Support and giving his support to Juan de Fuca MLA John Horgan.

"I believe that John Horgan is an exciting politician who is emerging just when the NDP needs an extra boost," Simons said in a news release. "He’s smart, engaging, passionate, and says what he thinks . . . I think he will be the best leader for the NDP, and the best premier for the Province."

In a separate news release Horgan welcomed Simons' endorsement. “Nicholas spoke passionately and eloquently about poverty and poverty reduction during the course of the campaign,” he said. “I will carry his vision for poverty reduction forward if I am elected on April 17."

Simons said he made the decision last night and has already told each of the other candidates, Adrain Dix, Mike Farnworth and Dana Larsen.

Simons was one of 13 NDP MLAs whose opposition to Carole James' leadership of the party led to her stepping down in December.

Andrew MacLeod is The Tyee’s Legislative Bureau Chief in Victoria. Reach him here.