John Rustad, the former BC Conservative Party leader, has announced that he will not be vying for his previous position. In a heartfelt message shared on his Facebook page on a Sunday morning, Rustad revealed that his decision was made after deep contemplation.
Expressing his commitment to the future of British Columbia, Rustad emphasized the need for a cohesive and determined Conservative Party to lead the province effectively. He stated, “British Columbia needs a Conservative Party that is united, focused, and ready to form government. The best thing I can do for the party, and ultimately for the province, is to support the next leader and help ensure we come out of this process stronger, not divided.”
Previously, Rustad had hinted at a potential leadership bid but has now chosen to step back and offer his support to the upcoming leadership race. Emphasizing the importance of unity and collective effort, he encouraged party members and supporters to remain engaged, focused, and stand behind the new leader who will guide the party’s future.
Rustad’s decision to withdraw from the leadership race follows his resignation in December following a lack of confidence from caucus members and a declaration of professional incapacitation by the party’s board. The party is gearing up for a leadership vote on May 30, with candidates required to garner support from at least 250 members and pay a fee of $115,000 to enter the final ballot.