An historic day in Scottish and U.K. politics after Nicola Sturgeon announced her shock exit

Sturgeon confirmed that she is resigning as Scotland’s first minister.

Many expected her to serve until after the next election but Sturgeon says there was much more “intensity” and “brutality” to the life of a politician than there was in previous years.

She told the press “in my head and in my heart” this was the right time to step down.

Sturgeon is also stepping down as SNP leader but will remain in office until her successor is elected.

She recently clashed with the Westminster government over gender reform laws, and a polling expert says her popularity is as low as it’s been during her time as first minister.

According to her predecessor, Sturgeon’s shock resignation leaves the independence movement with “no clear strategy”.

The question is – who will replace her?

Nominations for Sturgeon’s successor have now opened and many say there’s big shoes to fill.