After much speculation and anticipation, it has been officially announced that BC Conservative MLA John Rustad will not be running for the party’s leadership.
Rustad, who has been a member of the BC Legislature since 2005, made the announcement on Tuesday, stating that he has decided to focus on his family and his constituency of Nechako Lakes.
In a statement, Rustad expressed his gratitude for the support he has received from his colleagues and the party, but ultimately felt that now is not the right time for him to take on the role of leader.
This news comes as a surprise to many, as Rustad was considered a strong contender for the leadership position. He has held various cabinet positions, including Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, and has been a vocal advocate for rural communities and resource development.
Rustad’s decision not to run leaves the BC Conservative party with only one official candidate for the leadership, MLA Ellis Ross. However, there is still time for other potential candidates to come forward, as the deadline for nominations is not until February 2022.
The BC Conservative party has been struggling to gain traction in recent years, with only one MLA currently holding a seat in the legislature. The party has been searching for a new leader since former leader Trevor Bolin stepped down in 2019.
Whoever takes on the role of leader will have the challenging task of rebuilding the party and gaining support from voters. The BC Conservatives have not held power in the province since the 1970s, and face tough competition from the BC Liberals and NDP.
The party’s next leader will be chosen by party members in a vote that will take place in February 2022. Until then, the BC Conservatives will continue to search for a strong and capable leader to guide them into the next election.
In the meantime, Rustad will continue to serve as MLA for Nechako Lakes and will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the party’s future. As for the BC Conservative leadership race, only time will tell who will step up to take on the challenge.
