In a seismic shift in B.C. politics, Kevin Falcon is moving to suspend BC United’s campaign in the fall election.
“This is the right thing to do for British Columbia,” Falcon said.
He encouraged all BC United supporters to unite behind BC Conservative leader John Rustad and the “Conservative Party of BC to prevent another four years of disastrous NDP government.”
“I got back into politics because I wanted to build a bright future for my two daughters and for the next generation of British Columbians,” Falcon said. “Today, I’m stepping back for the same reason. I know that the best thing for the future of our province is to defeat the NDP, but we cannot do that when the centre-right vote is split.”
Nominations of BC United candidates will be withdrawn to enable the Conservative Party of BC to draw from United’s pool of incumbent MLAs and candidates, according to the statement.
Some of the United candidates are already being mentioned as possible MLAs for the BC Conservatives.
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This reportedly includes Tom Shypitka in Kootenay East, Peter Milobar in Kamloops, Jaime Stein in Vancouver-Langara and Ian Paton in Delta South.
Global News has learned that the list is still being worked on for others running for Conservatives.
“We will work together to assemble the best possible team of MLAs and candidates to preserve the best possible interest of British Columbians,” Falcon said.
At a press conference on Wednesday afternoon, Falcon said they will not be discussing any possible name changes at this time but he said the most important thing is to make sure the NDP does not have one more day in power than they have to have.
“I’ve known Kevin Falcon for 20 years, and while we haven’t always seen eye to eye, we both know there is too much at stake to let past disagreements get in the way of defeating David Eby and the radical NDP,” Rustad said in the statement. “I’ve never doubted Kevin Falcon’s commitment to our province, and today, I applaud his decision to put B.C. first, as he’s done throughout his career.”
Rustad said he knew this decision was hard for Falcon but echoed that this is the best way forward for B.C. residents.
When asked about his past comments on Rustad’s party and his leadership, Falcon said Rustad admitted that the Conservative vetting process is not as rigorous as the United’s process.
“In all candor, I agree with 75 per cent of things you do,” Falcon said to Rustad. “But on your very worst day, you’ll be better than David Eby on his very best day.”
It is unclear what will happen to the money raised by the BC United party but Falcon said that will be handled in the days to come.
“Is it the end of the BC Liberals?” Falcon was asked.
“Certainly for this election yes. I can’t be sure what the board will decide in years to come but certainly for this election, yes.”
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