The embattled B.C. Conservative Party has appointed Lorne Doerkson as interim leader.
The MLA for Cariboo-Chilcotin was first elected in 2020 as a member of the B.C. Liberals before the party changed its name to B.C. United. He crossed the floor to join the upstart B.C. Conservatives in 2024.
Doerkson takes over from Kerry-Lynne Findlay, who stepped down on Sunday citing conflict within the party.
Findlay’s resignation follows weeks of drama within the Conservative caucus that saw more than a dozen departures and expulsions, including former leader John Rustad who was himself ousted in a party revolt. Former interim leader Trevor Halford was also expelled from caucus on Friday.
Kerry-Lynne Findlay resigns as leader of the B.C. Conservative Party
The upheaval within the Official Opposition Conservatives comes amid speculation Premier David Eby may call a snap provincial election sometime this week.
Doerkson was recommended by the remaining members of the Conservative caucus and approved by the party’s board of directors.
“Our caucus and party will now move forward together, focused on providing strong opposition and representing British Columbians across the province,” said party president Mauro Francis in a news release.
