'Sturgeon apologist' John Swinney will officially launch bid for SNP leadership ... trends now

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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.