Graeme McCormick has pulled out of the race to become SNP leader and endorsed rival John Swinney as Scotland's next first minister.
Mr McCormick's decision not to pursue a leadership bid leaves Mr Swinney as the only official candidate after Humza Yousaf announced he is stepping down.
In a statement shared with Sky News, he said he had had a "lengthy and fruitful conversation" with Mr Swinney.
"John and I agreed the challenges which the SNP, our Government and our people face, and explored new thinking on a range of issues which I am confident, as they are advanced, will inspire activists both within the SNP and wider Independence Movement in the following weeks and months," he said.
"This is a fresh start for our members and our politicians, and I'm sure that John's determination to deliver Independence will be rewarded at the forthcoming general election.
"I have therefore concluded that I shall not proceed with my nomination for party leader but instead support John Swinney's nomination for party leader and first minister of Scotland."
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