Bruce Banman Positions for B.C. Conservative Leadership Bid with Unity Message
Abbotsford South MLA Bruce Banman is poised to announce his candidacy for the leadership of the B.C. Conservative Party, a move that could reshape the province's political landscape. Having played a pivotal role in establishing the Conservatives as the primary opposition to the B.C. NDP, Banman is now focusing on rallying the party around a unified vision.
From B.C. United to Conservative Powerhouse
Banman joined the Conservatives under John Rustad in September 2023, a decision that significantly bolstered the party's presence in the legislature. This shift granted the Conservatives official status, along with enhanced resources, staffing, and access to question period. In leaving B.C. United, Banman cited a preference for a party grounded in "common sense" rather than "political expediency," a move that drew a swift response from United Leader Kevin Falcon, who referenced unspecified "internal management challenges" as a factor in Banman's departure.
Policy Priorities and Political Clashes
A major policy plank in Banman's anticipated leadership campaign will be the rollback of ICBC's no-fault insurance system, positioning this as a key issue for voters. His political stance has already sparked controversy, including criticism of the NDP government's safer supply policies, which he argues harm communities. Premier David Eby has countered by highlighting Banman's opposition to SOGI 123, an educational resource on gender diversity, accusing the Conservatives of fueling division in the province.
Over the past year, with Banman as a key lieutenant, the Conservatives have surged past B.C. United to become the favored choice for centre-right voters, nearly denying Eby a majority government. Despite this success, recent leadership changes within the party have led to Banman losing his role as whip and an associated salary top-up, though he expresses no hard feelings and wishes his successor well.
Emphasis on Unity and Conduct
In the race to succeed Rustad, Banman stresses the importance of party unity, noting that "more than half of the Conservative MLAs voted for leadership change" and that this decision must be respected. He advocates for the party to "get your act together" and present a more unified front publicly, endorsing the party's "good conduct" rules that prohibit personal attacks among candidates. In a "polarized province" where division is rampant, Banman believes such measures are crucial for fostering cohesion and appealing to a broader electorate.
As Banman prepares his leadership bid, his focus on internal harmony and clear policy directions, such as reforming ICBC, sets the stage for a competitive race that could influence B.C.'s political dynamics in the coming years.
