John Swinney looks set to become the next leader of the SNP and First Minister of Scotland.
It follows nearly a week of speculation linking both him and Kate Forbes to the top job, but Mr Swinney was all-but confirmed as the new leader on Thursday after Ms Forbes announced she wouldn't be running.
Nominations are still open until Monday at midday, but it's unlikely that anyone else will put themselves forward or gather enough support to do so.
The 60-year-old veteran MSP announced his intention to run at a press conference on Thusday morning, where he reiterated he would not be an "interim leader" or a "caretaker".
"I am offering to lead my party through the Westminster elections, to lead us beyond the 2026 elections, to contest, which I intend to win for the SNP and for Scotland,” he said.
A one-man race
Last year's leadership battle proved to be somewhat divisive. A rivalry was formed between the three candidates, one of whom - Ash Regan - has since left the party.
But, should nobody else stand, this year's leadership contest should be more straightforward.
Ms Forbes, who fought in last year's leadership campaign, said yesterday: "I have concluded that the best way to deliver the urgent change Scotland needs is to join with John Swinney and advocate for that reform agenda within the Scottish government.
“I can therefore today announce that I will not be seeking nomination as the next SNP leader.
“John will therefore have my support and endorsement in any campaign to follow.”
Is Forbes frontbench bound?
After narrowly losing out to Humza Yousaf last year, Ms Forbes also turned down a move to rural affairs, which was seen by many as a demotion from having the finance portfolio.
But rumours have surfaced that she could be set to return to government to work with Mr Swinney's cabinet.
The Perthshire North MSP said he was delighted" Ms Forbes endorsed his campaign, adding that he wants her to play a "significant part" in government, should he become First Minister.
"She is an intelligent, creative, thoughtful person who has much to contribute to our national life," he said.
"And if elected, I will make sure Kate is able to make that contribution."