Division, defections, depletion: How the B.C. Conservatives lost 11 legislators

The B.C. Conservatives narrowly won 44 seats in the 2024 provincial election, falling just short of a victory. However, the party's caucus has since shrunk by a quarter, as internal disagreements and ideological differences have led to the departure of 11 legislators.

Dallas Brodie, Jordan Kealy, and Tara Armstrong were all expelled from the caucus in March 2025 following a dispute over remarks that Rustad deemed mocking of residential school survivors. Armstrong subsequently switched allegiance to OneBC, which lacks official party status, while Brodie and Kealy remain independent members.

Sturko, a former RCMP officer, was dismissed by Rustad in September 2025 after accusing him of plotting against his leadership. Boultbee resigned amid accusations from Rustad that she was ordered to "get the F out." Findlay, Rustad's successor, questioned her health and mental state, prompting her departure.

Chan resigned in March 2026 following a charge of assault, which he denies. Milobar left the party citing ideological differences with Findlay, and Gasper resigned to allow Findlay to run in a byelection. Paton announced his intention to form a new party with Milobar, while Bird warned of divisive leadership and threatened to create a new political entity.

Wat accused Findlay of reneging on a promise to apologize for accusations she deemed unfounded. These defections highlight the growing discontent within the B.C. Conservative caucus, driven by ideological clashes and a perceived shift towards what many perceive as populist policies.