However, critics cited Rae's turbulent tenure as Ontario Premier in the early to mid 1990s, arguing that electoral success in Ontario was essential for forming government. Registered candidates Individuals who gathered the necessary signatures from 300 party members and paid the first $25,000 installment of the entry fee: Scott Brison Scott Brison, 39, was the MP for Kings—Hants and was Minister of Public Works and Government Services under Martin. He had previously been a Progressive Conservative MP (since 1997) and had in fact made a previous attempt at that party's leadership in their 2003 leadership election. Brison crossed the floor later that year to join the Liberals shortly after the creation of the Conservative Party of Canada. An openly gay former investment banker, Brison presented fiscally moderate and socially progressive positions. His PC leadership platform had called for Employment Insurance reform, more private involvement in healthcare, integrated defense strategy with the US, and socially liberal policies. His 2006 Liberal leadership platform emphasised the candidate as a "defender of the environment, business innovation and socially progressive values." High profile supporters Former New Brunswick Premier Frank McKenna, considered the leading contender until he announced he was not running in the race, had donated $3000 to Brison's campaign in August and formally endorsed Brison on November 30. Supporters in caucus prior to first ballot: 10 MPs: 4 Scott Brison, Mark Eyking, Shawn Murphy, Michael Savage Senators: 6 Sen. Jane Cordy, Sen. Jim Cowan, Sen. Joseph Day, Sen. Michael Kirby, Sen. Wilfred Moore, Sen. Gerard Phalen. Date campaign launched: April 22, 2006 Date officially registered: May 25, 2006 Number of ballots: 1 Result: Following the first ballot, he announced that he would withdraw from the race and support Rae. He endorsed Ignatieff upon Rae's elimination after the third ballot. Stéphane Dion Stéphane Dion, 51, had been Intergovernmental Affairs minister (1996-2003) under Chrétien, Environment minister (2004-2006) under Martin. Before entering federal politics by his 1996 appointment to cabinet followed shortly by his election to parliament from Saint-Laurent—Cartierville, Dion was a professor of political science and noted federalist commentator. He was noted for vocally opposing Quebec sovereigntism and supporting for measures such as the Clarity Act. He was considered a Chrétien loyalist who nonetheless worked well with the Martin camp. Dion announced his candidacy on April 7. High-profile supporters Former Liberal House Leader Don Boudria served as Dion's Campaign Chair and Paul Martin's BC Lieutenant Mark