Prince George-North Cariboo MLA makes “hanging” comment in group chat

Sep 18, 2026 | 2:12 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — A comment made by Prince George-North Cariboo MLA Sheldon Clare in a Conservative Party of B.C.-related municipal election group chat is drawing criticism after it was made public by political columnist Rob Shaw.

Shaw shared a screenshot of the exchange on social media platform X on Friday, highlighting a discussion involving municipal election candidates. According to the post, Mike Butler, a mayoral candidate in Parksville, quoted founding father Benjamin Franklin, writing: “We must, indeed, all hang together, or most assuredly we shall all hang separately.”

In response, Clare wrote: “There’s a good number that need hanging.”

(Image Credit: X/@RobShaw_BC)

The exact intent of Clare’s remark remains unclear, and the MLA has not publicly elaborated on the statement.

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In a statement released to media, Clare said:

“I want to clarify a recent comment I made in a private message group. The comment was made in jest in response to a Benjamin Franklin quotation regarding hanging together. It was not intended as a threat or to encourage violence, and I apologize to anyone who took offense. In these times of heightened concern and sensitivity around provocative political rhetoric, I should have chosen my words more carefully, and I take responsibility for that.”

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Email: Adam.Berls@pattisonmedia.com

by Adam Berls

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Prince George-North Cariboo MLA makes “hanging” comment in group chat

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