B.C. Conservatives move to reunite party ahead of snap election

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 24, 2026

Photo Courtesy: The Canadian Press

CANADA – The B.C. Conservatives are moving to reunite their caucus and prepare for the Oct. 24 provincial election after a turbulent period that included the resignation of former leader Kerry-Lynne Findlay.

Interim leader Lorne Doerkson says the party is now united and ready for the campaign after several legislators who had left or were removed from the Conservative caucus returned to the party.

The developments came after Premier David Eby called a snap election, less than halfway through his government’s mandate. Eby said the province faces an “existential” threat from U.S. tariffs and that voters should have a chance to decide the direction of British Columbia.

Doerkson criticized the early election call, describing it as unnecessary and costly, but said the vote provides an opportunity for the Conservatives to present themselves as an alternative to the NDP.

The party has also been rebuilding its ranks after several MLAs temporarily joined CentreBC, a breakaway group led by Peter Milobar. Seven CentreBC legislators have since returned to the Conservative caucus, while Eleanor Sturko has remained outside the party.

The Conservatives, however, have also seen departures and announced non-candidacies, including former Surrey mayor Linda Hepner, while three NDP cabinet ministers have said they will not seek re-election.

With voting set for Oct. 24, the parties are now moving into a compressed provincial campaign following Eby’s early election call.