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John Rustad Resigns as B.C. Conservative Leader After Caucus Revolt

The party moves to a leadership race under interim leader Trevor Halford.

Overview

  • Twenty of 39 Conservative MLAs filed signed no‑confidence statements through lawyer Bruce Hallsor, a submission authenticated by party president Aisha Estey.
  • The party board declared Rustad "professionally incapacitated" and installed Trevor Halford as interim leader, triggering brief confusion over Official Opposition recognition in the legislature.
  • Rustad first rejected the move, then said he resigned to avoid a "civil war" and will continue to sit as MLA for Nechako–Lakes.
  • Halford said he will not seek the permanent leadership as the board drafts rules and timelines for a leadership contest.
  • Divisions linger after some MLAs publicly backed Rustad, even as party leaders vow to refocus on challenging the NDP government.