Boultbee Crosses the Floor to Join B.C. NDP
Penticton-Summerland MLA Amelia Boultbee has made a significant political shift, leaving her status as an Independent to join the B.C. NDP. The announcement was made Friday by Premier David Eby, who welcomed Boultbee as his newest recruit.
Why Boultbee Made the Move
Boultbee, a fourth-generation Pentictonite, explained her decision in a statement: "I got into politics to serve my community. When I think about who’s best positioned to make a difference for people in Penticton, Summerland, and the whole province, my confidence is with David Eby and the B.C. NDP." She emphasized that joining the NDP was about addressing "generational challenges that are decades in the making," such as housing affordability and a health care worker shortage.
"Taking on these challenges requires leadership that’s thoughtful and determined, and that’s why I’m joining David and his amazing team of B.C. NDP MLAs," she added.
Background: From Conservative to Independent to NDP
Boultbee was first elected as a B.C. Conservative in 2024 but left the caucus the following year, citing "the unravelling of John Rustad" as the reason. She accused the Tory leader of intimidating MLAs, potential involvement in improper memberships during the summer’s leadership review, and attempting to prevent a caucus vote on his position. In response, Rustad told MLAs to leave if they didn't support his leadership and accused Boultbee of leaking internal caucus information. She then sat as an Independent until joining the NDP.
Eby Welcomes Boultbee
Premier Eby praised Boultbee’s courage, stating, "I was impressed with the courage Amelia showed in standing up for principle and leaving the B.C. Conservatives. Since then, she’s been a fierce independent voice for the people in Penticton and Summerland. I know her advocacy will continue in our caucus as we work together to strengthen health care, bring housing costs down, and keep our economy moving forward."
