BC Conservative Party Faces Internal Division Over Social Values Debate

Party leader John Rustad emphasizes commitment to free speech as caucus tensions surface over LGBTQ support and religious values.

A leaked letter from 13 BC Conservative MLAs criticized MLA Elenore Sturko for supporting the removal of a Vancouver Police Board member over controversial social media posts.
The dispute highlights internal divisions in the party over social issues, including LGBTQ rights and religious values in education.
Party leader John Rustad reaffirmed his stance on free speech, allowing MLAs to express differing views, while urging unity on broader issues like healthcare and affordability.
Sturko, a vocal LGBTQ advocate and former BC United member, declined Rustad's suggestion to meet with the ousted board member and defended her position.
Political analysts suggest the incident challenges Rustad's leadership and raises questions about the party's identity as it navigates its rapid rise to official opposition.