MLA Jordan Kealy talks on transition to becoming independent MLA: ‘It wasn’t easy’

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Peace River North MLA Jordan Kealy says his plans for the new year are to continue advocating for the region as he explained his transition into an independent MLA.

In an interview with Energeticcity.ca on the December 19th episode of This Week in the Peace, Kealy detailed his path to becoming an independent MLA following his and two other MLAs departure from the Conservative Party of B.C.

Kealy was elected in the 2024 provincial election as a member of the Conservative Party of B.C. caucus, having campaigned against then-incumbent MLA Dan Davies who ran as an independent.

“It wasn’t easy; I had to focus on getting my own staff, I went from being a critic of agriculture to the critic of everything, so [I needed to know] a lot of the bills inside and out,” Kealy said. 

“I had to know exactly what I had to speak to in very detailed form, and it was challenging but I’ve always taken the bull by the horns.”

Kealy explained being an independent MLA gives him the ability to interact with provincial ministers and other MLAs.

“Nobody really views me as competition or opposition really, so when it comes to dealing with NDP ministers or just their MLAs, I have a really good relationship with them, and being able to talk to them,” Kealy said. 

Kealy remarked on the resignation of Conservative Party of B.C. leader John Rustad, of whom he was a vocal critic following Kealy’s departure from the group.

“I think it’s a good thing that they finally did get [Rustad] out, so I guess we’ll see what that leadership race brings forward, and who puts their names forward as well,” Kealy said.

When asked about looking ahead into 2026, Kealy explained he was focused on catching up with casework and visiting Fort Nelson for the holiday season ahead of the next legislative session in February 2026. 

“I really try and go through all the bills as in depth as possible and try to speak to them, so that keeps me very busy,” Kealy said. 

Regarding specific concerns and priorities in 2026, Kealy stated “healthcare is number one,” alongside forestry and infrastructure

“We need a Taylor Bridge, we need our roads to be improved and upgraded, so those are a lot of the focus,” Kealy said.