NL

'Never say never,' says Paul Davis of PC leadership after latest polls

PC leader says he hasn't changed his mind, but won't rule it out.

Former premier announced in October he would step down as leader when new one chosen

Paul Davis says he hasn't changed his mind not to seek the PC leadership again, but wouldn't completely rule it out. (Sherry Vivian/CBC)

A recent survey of political opinion in Newfoundland and Labrador put the current Progressive Conservatives "neck and neck" with the Liberal government.

MQO Research on Wednesday released its quarterly survey of 600 people in the province.

Among decided voters, 37 per cent support Liberals, while 39 per cent supported the Tories. NDP support held relatively steady at 23 per cent among decided voters.

Former premier Paul Davis announced in October he would be stepping down as leader of the PCs, but when asked by reporters if he's consider running for leader again, he wouldn't rule it out.

"Look, I asked the party last year to hold a leadership convention. When I asked, I said that I wouldn't be a candidate," said Davis at the House of Assembly.

"And today I haven't changed my mind on that. But I've also learned in politics, never say never."

Lawyer Ches Crosbie has announced he will be seeking leadership of the PCs, while MHA Steve Kent has hinted he's also interested in running.

The Tories are holding a special meeting in June to decide on the process of electing a new leader.

MQO's survey was conducted over the phone from May 2 to 7 and included 600 randomly selected eligible voters.

The margin of error is plus or minus 4 percentage points, 19 times out of 20. Among decided voters, the margin of error is plus or minus 5.1 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.