B.C. Conservative Leader John Rustad refuses to resign despite pressure from 20 MLAs, vowing to stay focused on provincial issues amid growing party turmoil.

Rustad Stands Firm as Resignation Demands Grow

B.C. Conservative Leader John Rustad says he is not stepping aside, even though a lawyer representing 20 MLAs delivered a letter urging him to quit. He brushed off the pressure immediately, and he did it with a tone that suggested he had no doubts.

A Leader Rejects the Push to Quit

Rustad said he will stay in his role because he believes the party must keep its eyes on real issues. And, of course, he stressed that everyday problems across the province matter far more than internal fights. Because of that, he dismissed the letter as “noise” and kept his message simple.

He added that the party should stay focused on challenges facing British Columbians, and he emphasized that this must happen without distraction. Therefore, he made it clear that calls for his resignation will not change his plans.

A Party Rising and Splintering

The B.C. Conservatives surged under Rustad’s leadership. The party grew from one seat to 44 seats after the Oct. 19, 2024 election. However, cracks began to show soon afterward. Five MLAs left or were removed, and leaks suggested deep divisions inside the team. Because of this, the caucus has appeared unsettled and sharply divided.

Rustad Survived a Review but Not the Criticism

Earlier this fall, Rustad won a provincewide leadership review with more than 70% support from party members. Even so, voices calling for him to leave only became louder. Party executives and dozens of riding association officials have pushed for his departure. And now, the latest demand arrived through attorney Bruce Hallsor, who spoke for 20 unnamed MLAs.

Rustad noted that the MLAs chose not to identify themselves. Yet he hinted that their names may emerge, especially given previous leaks. And with that, he suggested more drama may follow.

Will Some MLAs Leave?

When asked whether he would ask the MLAs involved to exit the caucus, Rustad left the door open. He said the situation may lead to departures, and he added that some MLAs might choose to leave on their own. Even with that uncertainty, he stated once again that he is staying in place.

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