Zach Churchill stepping down as leader of N.S. Liberals [Video]

Zach Churchill is stepping down as leader of the Nova Scotia Liberals after the party dropped to just two seats and lost official Opposition status in last month’s provincial election.

Flanked by Sydney-Membertou MLA Derek Mombourquette and Timberlea-Prospect MLA Iain Rankin – the only two Liberal MLAs left in the province – Churchill made the announcement Tuesday morning in Halifax.

“This election, the voters sent a clear message, and I respect that. As leader, it’s my responsibility to take ownership of this result. This is my loss, and mine alone to bear,” said Churchill.  

• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

The announcement comes a day after Elections Nova Scotia said a recount confirmed Churchill lost his Yarmouth riding to Progressive Conservative candidate Nick Hilton by 16 votes.

Churchill held the riding in his hometown of Yarmouth since a 2010 byelection. He was re-elected …