Farnworth mulls leadership bid

Veteran B.C. New Democrat MLA Mike Farnworth is seriously considering a run for the leadership to replace outgoing party leader Carole James.

In a written statement released on Friday, Farnworth said he plans to consult friends and colleagues over the next several weeks before making a decision.

"I'm humbled by the support and encouragement I have received from British Columbians who are hungry for change. For too long, we have had a government that works against peopleinstead of with them. This must end," the statement read.

"Running for the leadership of the B.C. NDP is not a decision that can be rushed or made lightly. The next leader must be someone who can unite our party and win an election against determined opponents."

There are still no declared candidates to replace Carole James, who announced her resignation on Monday after months of infighting and strife within the party.

James fired MLA Bob Simpson in September after he criticized a speech she made to municipal leaders in an online posting.

That move, coupled with James's low approval ratings, led to calls for her resignation by a dissident faction of 13 NDP MLAs led by veteran Jenny Kwan.

James will step down as NDP party leader once an interim leader is chosen early in the new year. She will continue to serve as MLA for Victoria-Beacon Hill.