Clare backs Findlay ahead of crucial Abbotsford-Mission byelection

Sep 11, 2026 | 9:42 AM

PRINCE GEORGE — Prince George-North Cariboo Conservative MLA and Opposition House Leader Sheldon Clare says he remains confident in Kerry-Lynne Findlay’s leadership despite mounting questions about the future of the BC Conservative Party.

The party has been rocked by the departure of nine MLAs over the past month or so, with those leaving caucus citing concerns about Findlay’s leadership style and the party’s direction. The defections have raised concerns about party unity and whether more members could follow.

For Clare, however, the focus is on the future and on Findlay’s bid to secure a seat in the legislature. On September 26, Findlay will compete in the Abbotsford-Mission byelection, a race widely seen as important for both her leadership and the party’s prospects.

Clare said recent criticism of the BC Conservative leader does not reflect what he sees from within the party.

“I think our leader, Kerry-Lynne Findlay, demonstrated Wednesday night (Sept.9) in the debate in Abbotsford that she is a strong leader,” Clare said. “She is not what people have been claiming she is, and she is ready to take on the role of being the premier of this province.”

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While supporting Findlay, Clare acknowledged disappointment over the departure of several caucus colleagues, including fellow Prince George-Valemount MLA Rosalyn Bird.

“I’m always disappointed to see my colleagues leave the caucus,” he said. “I consider myself friends with each and every one of the folks who’ve chosen to move on to other things.”

Clare said he would welcome former members back into a party he believes remains the strongest alternative to the governing NDP.

The Opposition House Leader also dismissed comparisons between the current political environment and the vote-splitting battles that reshaped provincial politics in the early 1990s.

Instead, Clare argued that British Columbians are focused on economic issues and are increasingly dissatisfied with the NDP government’s handling of those challenges.

As Findlay prepares for the September 26 byelection campaign in Abbotsford-Mission, Clare said he remains confident the Conservatives can move past the caucus turmoil and position themselves as a government-in-waiting.

by Greg Fry

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Clare backs Findlay ahead of crucial Abbotsford-Mission byelection

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