Former federal MP and minister Kerry-Lynne Findlay has announced her candidacy for leadership of the Conservative Party in British Columbia, sparking a debate on the party’s ideological direction.
Findlay, who is married to Conservative MLA Brent Chapman, expressed her concerns in a statement, emphasizing the need to prevent former B.C. Liberals from influencing the party’s conservative values. She criticized them for allegedly promoting a “hidden liberal agenda” akin to the NDP.
In response to criticisms about her own past donations to the B.C. Liberals, Findlay defended her position, reiterating her commitment to preserving the party’s conservative principles. She accused rival Caroline Elliott of having ties to BC United, the rebranded B.C. Liberals, prompting a public exchange on social media.
Despite the controversy, Elliott maintained a diplomatic stance, pledging to collaborate respectfully with her fellow leadership contenders.
Findlay, who aims to uphold the party’s conservative ethos, marks the eighth candidate vying to succeed former leader John Rustad, who stepped down recently. With a background in federal politics, Findlay served in various capacities, including as minister of national revenue under Stephen Harper’s government.