Rustad Secures Leadership Mandate
B.C. Conservative Leader John Rustad officially won his leadership review on Monday, receiving 70.66% support from party members. The review, which included 1,268 eligible voters across 93 ridings, confirmed Rustad’s leadership after a challenging election cycle. Rustad celebrated the result, calling it a clear mandate to guide the party internally and hold the government accountable.
Elenore Sturko Removed from Caucus
Despite the leadership win, Rustad immediately kicked out Elenore Sturko, the party’s outspoken former public safety critic. Rustad accused her of plotting against his leadership, a charge Sturko denies. Speaking to media, Sturko said she discussed leadership concerns with other MLAs but was not organizing against Rustad.
She expressed disappointment and a “deep sense of hurt,” noting her efforts to bridge gaps between socially liberal and fiscally conservative party members. Sturko also suggested that other caucus members are preparing leadership campaigns and indicated some hope Rustad might resign.
Leadership Review Results
Rustad’s review showed strong support across the province:
78 ridings in favor
10 ridings opposed
3 ridings tied
2 ridings did not vote
He plans to outline a clear internal strategy for the party and discuss the review process at the upcoming Conservative annual general meeting. Rustad described the review as “the most open, transparent leadership review that any party in this country has ever done.”
UBC political science lecturer Stewart Prest noted that while Rustad’s 70% support is sufficient to move forward, the broader party reaction and concerns over manufactured memberships remain unresolved.
Party Turmoil and Recent History
Rustad’s leadership has faced ongoing controversy. Since joining the Conservatives in February 2023 after leaving BC Liberals, he has dealt with:
Defections and expulsions from caucus, including Dallas Brodie, Tara Armstrong, and Jordan Kealy
Accusations of blackmail against defectors, later referred to the RCMP
Challenges from within, highlighted by Sturko’s removal
The Conservatives came close to winning the October provincial election, securing 44 of 93 seats, and gained momentum as BC United suspended its campaign weeks before the vote. Rustad’s party continues to attract former BC Liberals, giving it official legislative status since September 2023.
Looking Ahead
Rustad will meet with his caucus to discuss the party’s forward strategy following the leadership review. Analysts note that while he has secured member support, internal tensions and questions over membership legitimacy may continue to shape the party’s future.
