2 weeks ago
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John Swinney will officially launch his SNP leadership bid today as the separatists reel from Humza Yousaf's meltdown.
The veteran MSP, Nicola Sturgeon's long-term deputy, is set to make a statement on his intentions this morning.
But despite allies' efforts to force a 'coronation' rather than a contest, Kate Forbes is still considering whether to stand for the job.
Devout Christian Ms Forbes - who clashed bitterly with Mr Swinney over her opposition to gay marriage as she narrowly lost to Mr Yousaf just over a year ago - has said there is a 'groundswell' of backing for her to make another pitch.
Supporters have also swiped that Mr Swinney is a 'continuity' candidate and 'apologist' for Ms Sturgeon.
She has been boosted by a poll indicating that while Mr Swinney is more popular among SNP activists, the wider public would prefer her as First Minister.
John Swinney (right) will officially launch his SNP leadership bid today, while Kate Forbes (left) is considering whether to run
Ms Forbes has been boosted by a poll indicating that while Mr Swinney is more popular among SNP activists, the wider public would prefer her as First Minister
The contest could amount to a battle for the SNP's soul, as the party struggles with falling support and police investigate its finances.
Mr Swinney, 60, served as Ms Sturgeon's deputy for almost nine years.
The Perthshire North MSP was also SNP leader between 2000 and 2004, standing down after a poor showing at the European elections.
When he decided not to stand for the leadership last year he said it was time for a new generation to take over.
Senior party members, including Westminster leader Stephen Flynn, Scotland's Health Secretary Neil Gray and Scotland's Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth, have already said they would support Mr Swinney if he decides to stand for election.
He is expected to make his statement at 10.30am at the Grassmarket Community Project in Edinburgh.
Former Scottish finance secretary Kate Forbes has yet to confirm whether or not she will make any similar statement on the future leadership of the SNP.
Several senior party members have backed the Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch MSP, including Joanna Cherry and Fergus Ewing.
Mr Yousaf dramatically announced he was quitting earlier this week
