Victoria/Fraser Valley (with files from CBC) – UPDATE – Trevor Halford is now the interim leader of the BC Conservatives. From the BC Conservatives website: Trevor Halford is a dedicated MLA for Surrey–White Rock, deeply rooted in the community where he was born and raised. Alongside his wife Holly, Trevor is raising their three young children in the same parks, fields, and rinks where he grew up, actively volunteering as a coach. His personal experiences with local challenges, such as housing affordability and commuting, drive his commitment to serving the needs of families in the Lower Mainland.
Career
Trevor Halford was first elected as MLA for Surrey–White Rock in 2020. He most recently served as the Shadow Minister for Transportation and Infrastructure, ICBC and Affordability, BC Transit, and Sport, having previously held roles as Shadow Minister for Mental Health and Addictions and Translink. A graduate of Elgin Park Secondary and Trinity Western University, Trevor’s career reflects his dedication to addressing local issues and advocating for a vibrant economy in Victoria.
It’s not known if John Rustad will stay on as an MLA, let alone what his political future holds.
Statement from John Rustad:
I am announcing my decision to resign as Leader of the Conservative Party of British Columbia and as Leader of the Official Opposition.
When I began this journey, our party had not elected an MLA to the British Columbia Legislature since 1975. We started with very little, but we built a movement grounded in common sense, hard work, and love of this province. Together, we came within one seat of forming government. That progress belongs to every MLA, every volunteer, every donor, and every British Columbian who believed we could do better.
I am proud of what we have built and proud of the team of Conservative MLAs who now represent communities across British Columbia. We have been a strong voice for safe streets, affordable living, private property, resource jobs, and respect for the people who build this province. That work matters more than ever, because the NDP is laying waste to B.C.’s economy and the livelihoods of working families. This was brought into sharp relief just this week with the loss of 350 jobs at the Crofton Pulp mill. People who work hard and play by the rules deserve a government that has their back, not a government that drives investment away and shrugs when paycheques disappear.
I know many are concerned by what they saw December 3, 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. We remain to a vision of elected a common-sense Conservative government in BC. I invite everyone who sees the NDP as a threat to their livelihood and to the dreams of a prosperous British Columbia to join us in the coming weeks and months as we chart a new path forward.
British Columbia needs a strong and unified opposition that is ready to hold this government to account and defeat it. I have full confidence in our caucus, and I will continue to support our team as they fight for British Columbians every day. I am deeply grateful to my wife Kim for the sacrifices she has made. I’m grateful to our staff for their commitment and to the people of British Columbia for the privilege of serving as the leader of the Official Opposition.”
ORIGINAL STORY – The drama surrounding the BC Conservative Party ramped up on Wednesday December 3.
Was Opposition Leader and BC Conservative Leader John Rustad pushed aside? 20 MLA’s signed a legal document that removes him from caucus. Rustad says “He’s not going anywhere”.
CBC released a timeline for December 3:
- John Rustad has been removed as leader of the B.C. Conservatives, according to the party’s board.
- But Rustad told reporters that “nothing has changed” and he remains leader. He added on social media: “I am not going anywhere.”
- B.C. Conservative House leader and Chilliwack-Cultus Lake MLA Á’a:líya Warbus said members would have clarity on who is the party’s leader by the end of day. However, no offiicial announcement came Wednesday evening.
- The board’s decision comes after months of turmoil in the party that have seen legislature members (MLAs) resigning from or being kicked out of caucus.
- A letter released Wednesday December 3, signed by 20 of the party’s MLAs, said they had “lost confidence” in Rustad’s leadership.
- Trevor Halford, MLA for Surrey-White Rock, said he has been selected as interim leader of the party, but it’s unclear who will be the leader of the Official Opposition in the B.C. Legislature.
…… and the drama continues.
