"(A)t the end of the day Jean Charest has the best chance to stop Pierre Polievre extremism," Patrick Brown's campaign admitted in an email to supporters on Tuesday afternoon.
Brown, who earlier this month was disqualified from continuing his run to be the next leader of the Conservative Party of Canada after allegations of breaking election financing laws came to light, has vowed to continue with all legal options saying, "We have some of the best lawyers in Canada working for us."
Brown has been clear he would support any new leader of the CPC except Pierre Poilievre, stating, "If it comes to that, he will be voting for Jean Charest. He encouraged his supporters to stay involved, do their research and make their own choice for the next leader of the party."
Former Premier Jean Charest said in a tweet after the news broke of Brown's semi-endorsement, "Brown recruited 150K members looking for a home in our Party. They will find one under my leadership. I will offer them a voice and respect."
Conservative Members have been receiving their ballots in the mail this week, with Brown's name still appearing on it.
Remaining in the race are Poilievre, Charest, Member of Parliament Leslyn Lewis and Scott Aitchison, and Former Member of Provincial Parliament Roman Baber.
The leader will be declared on September 10th, 2022.