B.C. Conservatives’ Findlay resigns; interim leader named ahead of potential election

On Sunday, Kerry-Lynne Findlay stepped down as the leader of British Columbia’s Conservatives, concluding her tenure that was fraught with internal strife, dismissals, and defections by her own party members. The decision to resign came after a period marked by constant infighting, firings, expulsions from the party caucus, and several sitting legislators defecting.

Kerry-Lynne Findlay declared that she would continue to run as the party's candidate in the upcoming September 26 byelection in Abbotsford-Mission. Her resignation statement expressed frustration, stating that "energy that should have been directed toward challenging the NDP, advancing our principles, and preparing to form government has instead been spent infighting amongst ourselves."

Former Conservative leader and MLA for Nechako Lakes, John Rustad, commented on the upcoming leadership transition, suggesting that the next interim Conservative leader would not necessarily have to be a sitting legislator. He emphasized the need for someone who can unite the party and present a vision for a prosperous British Columbia, a vision that addresses the serious issues thrust upon the province by the NDP.

Claire Rattée, an Independent MLA for Skeena who was among three legislators expelled from the Conservative caucus under Findlay, welcomed the new leadership change. She believes it gives her fellow MLAs the chance to unite, chart a clear path forward, and form a credible government-in-waiting capable of defeating Premier David Eby. Rattée stressed that no part of the conservative movement should be excluded from this endeavor.

Sheldon Clare, a Conservative MLA for Prince George and Opposition house leader, noted that when they were elected, they entered the party with enthusiasm, passion, energy, and a strong desire to fix things. However, when the ability to effect change was lacking, some individuals sought to accelerate change while others focused on supporting their own interests. Clare stated that the party remains strong and viable, and they are best positioned to defeat the NDP and form a responsible government.

Gavin Dew, a Conservative MLA for Kelowna-Mission, affirmed that Findlay won the leadership through the support of grassroots conservative members. Dew urged the party to fulfill its commitment to defeat David Eby and restore hope for British Columbians. Dallas Brodie, an Independent MLA for Vancouver-Quilchena who was expelled from the Conservative caucus in 2025 for remarks that mocked residential school survivors, criticized Findlay's leadership as a "savage and vindictive attack."

Brodie, who now serves as interim leader of OneBC, which lacks official party status in the legislature, stated that Findlay tried her best to save the party but was removed due to her status as "the wrong winner."