Peace politicians react to resignation of B.C. Conservative leader after day of confusion

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Conservatives in the Peace region have praised former B.C. party leader John Rustad after his resignation.

Rustad resigned on December 4th after a caucus vote appointed MLA Trevor Halford as the interim leader. Over 20 leaders that represented a caucus majority said they had lost confidence in Rustad and wanted him out. 

Confusion ensued on December 3rd when a news release was sent before 1 p.m. saying Rustad was removed because he was “professionally incapacitated.” 

But Rustad took to social media saying “he was not going anywhere.” 

This back and forth has been going on for months, with Rustad previously refusing to quit despite caucus rebellions that saw five MLAs leave, including Peace River’s North representative Jordan Kealy.

In a press release issued today, Rustad signs off saying how British Columbia needs a strong and unified opposition that is ready to hold this government to account and defeat it. 

“I am proud of what we have built and proud of the team of Conservative MLAs who now represent communities across British Columbia,” Rustad wrote. “We have been a strong voice for safe streets, affordable living, private property, resource jobs and respect for the people who build this province. 

“…I know many are concerned by what they saw yesterday, but I want to assure every member and supporter of the party that this was not a hostile takeover by BC Liberals of the party.”

Trevor Bolin, councillor for Fort St. John and former leader of the Conservative Party of B.C., reacted to today’s news: “I think it’s a good thing. I think that it was probably a very difficult decision for John to make, but I think he made the best decision for the membership and for British Columbia.” 

Bolin further added that he is excited to see the party announce a leader. 

“[We will] get some excitement and some new platforms and policies made by everyday British Columbians and get ready for what could be a possible snap election in the next year,” Bolin said. 

Peace River South MLA Larry Neufeld also spoke to Energeticcity.ca about the news: “John has done an amazing job of bringing the Conservative party to where it is today.

“All of British Columbia should thank him for his incredible service over these many years, and I wish him the best of luck and moving forward, I look forward to sitting with him in caucus.”

Meanwhile, now independent MLA Kealy took to Twitter when the news broke: “I saw this coming a long time ago, and this is why I became an independent because of weak leadership.

“Now we have seen the damage and disarray it has done to the opposition. I will continue to be a strong leader and fight tooth and nail for my riding and my constituents.”