By CKPG Today

B.C. politics

John Rustad resigns as leader of the B.C. Conservatives

Dec 4, 2025 | 9:23 AM

VICTORIA — The Conservative Party of B.C. has released a statement from John Rustad saying he has resigned as leader.

This after 20 MLAs representing a majority of the 39-member caucus gave statements to a lawyer calling for him to step aside on Wednesday.

He originally refused to do so but changed his mind on Thursday. In a statement, Rustad referenced accomplishments the party’s made during his leadership – including its strong showing in the 2024 provincial election which brought the party within one seat of forming government.

Rustad also took aim at the NDP – arguing the party is “laying waste to B.C.’s economy and the livelihoods of working families.” He cited the loss of 350 jobs at the Crofton Pulp mill as proof of that.

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He also noted that “this was not a hostile takeover by the BC Liberals of the party.”

With Rustad out as leader, Surrey-White Rock MLA Trevor Halford will serve as the party’s interim leader until a leadership race is announced.

On Wednesday, Prince George-North Cariboo MLA Sheldon Clare admitted he’s mulling running for the party leadership while Prince George-Mackenzie MLA Kiel Giddens said he hasn’t thought about it.

Prince George-Valemount MLA Rosalyn Bird hasn’t responded to an interview request by CKPG News.