Overview
- A letter from lawyer Bruce Hallsor, verified by party president Aisha Estey, reported that 20 of 39 Conservative MLAs had withdrawn confidence in John Rustad.
- The party board declared Rustad “professionally incapacitated” and named Surrey–White Rock MLA Trevor Halford interim leader, prompting a review by the Speaker over legislative recognition before the resignation.
- Rustad initially argued the party constitution barred a caucus-led ouster, then stepped down to avoid a “civil war,” and said he will remain the MLA for Nechako Lakes.
- Estey said preparations are underway for a leadership contest to restore focus on opposing the NDP, and Halford stated he is not pursuing the permanent role.
- The confrontation followed months of turmoil, including a leadership review that gave Rustad about 70.6% support on low turnout and defections that shrank the caucus, leaving lingering questions about unity.