Kitchener MPP Laura Mae Lindo won't seek NDP leadership

Kitchener Centre MPP Laura Mae Lindo has ended speculation she will seek the leadership of the Ontario New Democrats.

In a message on social media Monday, Lindosaid she was "truly humbled" by people encouraging her to run.

"Unfortunately, due to a number of unexpected personal challenges as well as various professional considerations, I have decided not to pursue this critically important role at this time," Lindo wrote.

The announcement comes a little over a month after Waterloo MPP Catherine Fife who was also widely speculated to be considering a run for the leadership indicated she, also, would not run to be the party's next leader.

Former NDP leader Andrea Horwath stepped down after the provincial election in June after the Progressive Conservatives won a second majority. Last month, Horwathwas elected mayor in Hamilton.

So far, there's just one candidate in the race. Toronto MPPMarit Stiles has announcedshe will seek the leadership. The party has said candidates who want to run in the leadership racehave untilDec. 5to register.

The party is set to choose a new leader in March 2023.