B.C. Conservative Leader John Rustad is under fire for his handling of Penticton-Summerland MLA Amelia Boultbee’s departure, making her the fifth MLA to exit or be ousted from the Official Opposition in a year. During a press briefing, Rustad raised concerns about Boultbee’s positions on various matters and referenced her well-being, prompting questions about her mental health. Boultbee had disclosed to Rustad five months earlier that she had sought mental health assistance while dealing with a distressing child abuse case as the party’s critic for the Ministry of Children and Family Development. Rustad’s comments were criticized by Boultbee, who accused him of exploiting personal information to discredit her. Rustad later clarified that he was providing support and addressing concerns rather than discussing Boultbee’s mental health.
Former B.C. Conservative leader Trevor Bolin expressed disappointment over the unfolding situation, urging Rustad to resign due to the loss of trust among many MLAs and party members. Conservative MLA Brennan Day condemned the weaponization of health conditions, emphasizing the harm it causes to those already facing stigma. Several NDP ministers, including Attorney General Niki Sharma, condemned Rustad’s remarks, calling for an apology. Meanwhile, internal party strife coincided with a poll indicating stronger voter support for the NDP over the B.C. Conservatives. Despite concerns raised by critics, Rustad expressed confidence in the party’s electoral prospects and welcomed the possibility of an early election.
The Official Opposition B.C. Conservatives have seen a decline of five MLAs from their initial count of 44 post-election, with two MLAs forming a new party and others sitting as Independents following disputes within the caucus.